WR Murph Retires from Professional Football, Takes on Coaching
November 16, 2015 - Champions Indoor Football (CIF)
Wichita Force News Release
WICHITA, Kan. - The Wichita Force announced today that veteran WR Brian Murph has decided to end his professional indoor career and become the wide receivers coach for the team.
"First, I would like to give a special thanks to everyone who has helped and supported me along the way in my career both on and off the field," Murph commented on his retirement. "I knew the day would come that I would have to walk away from the game that I love and have been playing since [the age of] nine."
This will be Murph's first official coaching position at the professional level after playing at the indoor level for seven seasons.
"I'm happy I get to keep his knowledge and understanding of indoor football but now as a coach," head coach Paco Martinez said. "He is going to be a great addition for us."
Murph began his professional career in 2008 when he signed with the Amarillo Dusters (af2). In 2009, Murph signed with the former Wichita Wild where he spent one season then moved on to play for the Corpus Christi Hammerheads (IFL). After one season with the Hammerheads, Murph returned back to the Wichita Wild where he assisted the team in back-to-back championships in 2013 and 2014. Murph continued his career with the Wild until the team's fold in 2014 then signed with the Wichita Force for the following season.
"Football has given me some of the best memories of my life and has brought me in contact with some great people that have become lifelong friends," Murph said. "I've been blessed to have played for some great organizations (Amarillo, Corpus Christi and Wichita), and also blessed for the opportunity to have played for some of the most dedicated and talented coaches and to have played with some of the most talented players. I have also been fortunate to have won at every level I have played and with that being said, I am at ease with my decision to step away from the game. My family and I would also like to give a special thanks to the fans of Wichita for all of the love and support that you have given to us and the team. Without you, this team wouldn't be what we are. Thank you, Force Nation!"
In his lone season with the Force, Murph played in 12 games and recorded 37 receptions for 294 yards and five touchdowns. As a veteran WR, Murph served as a key element and resource to the team's offense often assisting other receivers to make the next play.
"I'm going to miss Murph on the field," Martinez said. "Every year, I knew no matter what chaos was going on, old reliable Murph would be there for me. He had great hands and knew every position on the field. He was one of those guys that just knew how to get it done to be successful. He embodies the word consistency."
A native of Howardville, Mo., Murph spilt his collegiate career between Butler Community College and the University of Kansas. In his two seasons with the Jayhawks, Murph recorded six receptions for 835 yards and four touchdowns. In 2005, Murph led the team to an appearance in the Fort Worth Bowl where his 85 yard punt return touchdown helped jumpstart the team to a 42-13 win over Houston.
Now through December 31, season tickets can be purchased at the 2015 pricing by calling 316-425-3009. For more information on the Force, visit www.wichitaforce.com, like the team on Facebook or follow them on Twitter (@wichitaforce).
Champions Indoor Football Stories from November 16, 2015
- WR Murph Retires from Professional Football, Takes on Coaching - Wichita Force
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