Two-Day Wideout Earns Roster Spot
Published on February 21, 2012 under Arena Football League (AFL)
Utah Blaze News Release
SALT LAKE CITY - Like many players, Chad Rusinkovich arrived in training camp hoping make the most of a rare opportunity and prove that he belongs. Today, his hard work has paid off in the form of a contract. The Utah Blaze announced Rusinkovich has been assigned to the team after catching the eye of the coaching staff during practice.
Utah first noticed Rusinkovich (5-9, 175, Northwestern College) during an open tryout in California. He was invited to training camp, and was able to participate in practices on Saturday and Monday through two one-day waivers. In that short time, he managed to convince the Blaze staff he was worthy of a roster spot.
"Signing with the Blaze marks the beginning of my dreams being turned into reality," said Rusinkovich. "Every athlete envisions himself playing professional sports and now I'm getting that opportunity. I'm just really blessed and honored to be given the chance to show what I can do."
"I was very impressed with Chad during our open tryout in Los Angeles," said President & Head Coach Ron James. "He's earned a camp roster spot the hard way and continues to exceed expectations with his work ethic and determination. Chad is the type of player who turns up the intensity in training camp."
Rusinkovich may not be the biggest or strongest of receivers, but on the field, he works as hard as anyone on the team. He's picked up the offense quickly and continues to transition to the indoor game at rapid pace. Rusinkovich has a reliable set of hands and displays the quickness needed to work in the tight spaces the AFL field presents.
"These first two days of practice have been great," Rusinkovich said. "It's extremely high energy and up tempo, and the level of competition is amazing. I'm really blessed to have the opportunity to play football for such a high quality organization. The front office, coaching staff and players are great. I'm just excited to be a part of it."
Rusinkovich earned first-team All-Upper Midwest Conference accolades during his final collegiate season at Northwestern College (MN). As a senior in 2011, he hauled in 61 passes for 977 yards and 11 scores, setting single-season school records for receiving yards and touchdowns.
Arena Football League Stories from February 21, 2012
- Mustangs Bring You 2012 Play-By-Play - Milwaukee Mustangs
- Orlando Predators Host Controlled Practice Against Tampa - Orlando Predators
- Two-Day Wideout Earns Roster Spot - Utah Blaze
- Barnstormers Training Camp Underway in Oskaloosa - Iowa Barnstormers
- Shock Continue to Make Moves - Spokane Shock
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
