Veterans Having to Prove Themselves
February 17, 2011 - Indoor Football League (IFL)
Amarillo Venom News Release
Amarillo, TX 2/17/11 - The Amarillo Venom welcome several veteran players back on the defensive side of the ball, but with a new defensive coordinator in town everybody is having to prove themselves.
The Amarillo Venom hired former Texas Tech defensive back and NFL player Sammy Walker during the offseason to be the team's new defensive coordinator. Coach Walker has made it very clear that he expects his guys to be big hitters and just because you were a starter last year doesn't mean you will start this year.
"I haven't watched much film from last year because I want to form my own opinion of guys," said Coach Walker. "I don't know who was here and I don't know anyone's name. If you want me to learn your name, you will hit and then I will learn your name."
Walker said he expects his defense to be an aggressive, hard-hitting team that the fans will enjoy to watch. He said the way to slow down offenses in this league is to hit and have receivers hesitant to catch the ball because they are tired of getting hit. He said a big hit is his defense's present to the fans.
"The thing that I really like is when they give the fans a present," said Coach Walker. "Give them a receiver, a ball or something that gets knocked into the stands, a helmet, shoes or whatever. If my players want to give the fans something to cheer about, knock a player into the stands and I'll be happy."
Veteran player Kendrick Bournes said he doesn't feel any added pressure with the new defensive coordinator and approaches every training camp as having something to prove.
"Anytime you come into training camp you're looking to prove yourself," said Bournes. "Whether you're a five- or six-year veteran or a rookie, you're looking to prove yourself. Having a new coach, you want to go out there and show him that he doesn't have to look anywhere else."
Along with a new defensive coordinator come higher expectations according to veteran defensive lineman Jared Williams. Williams said he welcomes the high expectations and it is making him a better player.
"It makes you step your game up, especially with the type of guy he is," said Williams. "He's very outspoken and you have to step your game up. You're either going to get it or you're going to go home."
Fans will have a chance to see the Venom defense in action on Sunday, February 20th as they take on the Allen Wranglers in an exhibition matchup. There will be a special meet and greet with former Dallas Cowboys Everson Walls and Drew Pearson. To get your tickets to the game or ask about VIP passes to the meet and greet, call (806) 350-7277. Season tickets are still available and individual tickets go on sale February 18th. Tickets can be purchased through the Amarillo Venom offices, located at 901 S. Buchanan in downtown Amarillo, at any United Supermarkt location, or by going to www.panhandletickets.com .
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Indoor Football League Stories from February 17, 2011
- Third Season of "From the Huddle" Begins on Monday, February 21 - West Texas Roughnecks
- 2011 Season Ticket Pick-Up Announced - Sioux Falls Storm
- Veterans Having to Prove Themselves - Amarillo Venom
- Slaughter Bringing Back Experienced Veterans - Chicago Slaughter
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