Jackson Named To 1st Team All-IFL Team
La Crosse, WI: The Indoor Football League has announced the league’s first and second All-IFL teams for 2011. These awards recognize the top players from throughout the IFL. Each player named was a stand-out at his position and exemplifies the tremendous talent and quality within the league. Among the award winners was Spartans DE Xzavie Jackson. Jackson finished his second season with the Spartans and started every game in 2011. The University of Missouri graduate recorded 48 tackles, 12.5 sacks, six pass breakups and a forced fumble.
Jackson led the Spartans to their first win of the season in week 5 by racking up three quarterback sacks to go along with a blocked field goal attempt which lead to a defensive touchdown for teammate Walner Belleus. He also had constant pressure on Kent Predators quarterback Charles McCollum, and held one of the league’s highest-scoring offense to just 20 points. He earned Player of the Week honors for his performance in that game. Jackson was also dominant in the Spartans 51-0 week 11 shutout against the Lehigh Valley Steelhawks which was a first in league history.
For a full list of the first and second-team IFL offensive and defensive selections and the 18 different categories awarded by the league office, visit www.goifl.com/news.
The La Crosse Spartans are a second-year franchise playing in the Indoor Football League. The Spartans won the 2010 IFL Community Relations Award for their continued efforts in the La Crosse Community. For more information on the team, visit www.lacrossespartans.com.
The Indoor Football League (www.goifl.com) is a 22-team league based out of Richmond, Virginia with franchises in 14 states (including Alaska). The league holds a 14-game regular season schedule that runs February through June. The IFL’s playoffs culminate in July with the IFL United Bowl.
Spartans to host summer football camps
La Crosse, WI: The La Crosse Spartans, a second-year franchise in the Indoor Football League, have announced that their coaches and players will be holding football camps for area youth this summer. The team will host nine week-long camps in the La Crosse area, including the towns of La Crosse, Holmen, West Salem, Sparta, Viroqua, La Crescent, Tomah, and Onalaska beginning in late June.
The week-long camps are geared toward youth ages 6-14 and both advanced athletes and beginners are encouraged to attend. Cost of the week-long camp is $100 which includes a camp T-shirt and Spartans water bottle. Campers will learn about consistent effort, proper technique, and keeping football fun from former Division I, I-AA, and Division II successful college players as well as coaches with NFL and AFL coaching and playing experience.
All camps will be held Monday through Thursday from 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. at the following cities during these dates:
Holmen- June 20th-23rd
West Salem- June 27th-30th
Sparta- July 11th-14th
Viroqua- July 18th-21st
La Crosse (North)- July 25th-28th
La Crescent- August 1st-4th
La Crosse (South)- August 1st-4th
Tomah- August 8th-11th
Onalaska- August 15th-18th
For more information or to register, contact the Spartans office at 608-782-4461 or visit www.lacrossespartans.com. Enrollment is limited, so early registration is encouraged.
Individual game tickets for the La Crosse Spartans second season in the Indoor Football League are on sale now at the La Crosse Center box office. Tickets for home games are on sale now for as little as $7 including the Spartans next home game on May 27th against the Green Bay Blizzard.
Group ticket packages and special family four-pack offers are also available by calling the Spartans ticket office at 608-782-4461. To purchase single-game tickets, stop by the La Crosse Center box office or visit www.ticketmaster.com.
Entire defense named IFL P.O.W.
La Crosse, WI: It’s been a season of firsts for the La Crosse Spartans franchise, filled with their first over .500 record, their first winning streak and now they have been the first entire unit to be named as IFL player of the week. After completing the IFL’s first-ever shutout, the Spartans entire defensive unit was named the Week 11 Vidswap.com Defensive Player of the Week.
The second-year franchise handled the Lehigh Valley Steelhawks 51-0 on Saturday night to move their record to 4-5 overall this season. As a unit, the Spartans held the Steelhawks to just 144 yards of total offense while picking up five sacks and forcing five turnovers. The Steelhawks had first and goal three different times in the game but were unable to score against a stout Spartans defense.
Newcomer Bernard Faithful (DE acquired from Green Bay last week) helped lead the charge with 7 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 3.5 tackles for loss, a forced fumble and a blocked field goal attempt which Walner Belleus returned 40 yards for a touchdown. Fellow defensive lineman Xzavie Jackson also chipped in four tackles and 1.5 sacks while linebacker Joe Bevis racked up 14 tackles, one sack, and an interception.
Individual game tickets for the La Crosse Spartans second season in the Indoor Football League are on sale now at the La Crosse Center box office. Tickets for home games are on sale now for as little as $7 including the Spartans next home game on May 27th against the Green Bay Blizzard.
Group ticket packages and special family four-pack offers are also available by calling the Spartans ticket office at 608-782-4461. To purchase single-game tickets, stop by the La Crosse Center box office or visit www.ticketmaster.com.
Spartans/Blizzard announce three player deal
La Crosse, WI: With the IFL trade deadline fast approaching, the La Crosse Spartans and Green Bay Blizzard have completed a three-player trade that will send a wide receiver and defensive lineman to La Crosse to fill some gaps created by injuries in exchange for a wide receiver.
The Spartans have acquired WR Aaron Rhea (6’1”, 208 lbs.) and DE Bernard Faithful (6’3”, 250 lbs.) from the Blizzard in exchange for WR Bryan Pray. Rhea has played in four games for the Blizzard and has caught 14 passes for 132 yards and three touchdowns. Faithful has participated in six games and has recorded 17 tackles, one sack, and one pass breakup.
Rhea, from Stephen F. Austin, spent time with the Minnesota Vikings and Buffalo Bills in 2010 before joining the Blizzard. Faithful played collegiately at Toledo and spent 2010 with the IFL United Bowl Champion Billings Outlaws.
“This was a tough trade for us to make because Pray is such a great player and did so well for us,” Spartans General Manager Chris Kokalis said. “Our hands are tied though with so many injuries. We had to do something to help our defense because we are missing five guys on that side of the ball with injuries. We are excited to see what Aaron (Rhea) and Bernard (Faithful) can do for us going forward.”
McDermott Out for Remainder of Season
Linebacker Wes McDermott has a torn ACL and will be out for the remainder of the season. McDermott injured his knee in Friday’s game against the Bloomington Extreme. McDermott joins WR Antonio Overstreet and DL Antonio O’Neil with injuries that will sideline them for the rest of the season.
Individual game tickets for the La Crosse Spartans second season in the Indoor Football League are on sale now at the La Crosse Center box office. Tickets for home games are on sale now for as little as $7 including the Spartans next home game on April 30th against the Lehigh Valley Steelhawks.
Group ticket packages and special family four-pack offers are also available by calling the Spartans ticket office at 608-782-4461. To purchase single-game tickets, stop by the La Crosse Center box office or visit www.ticketmaster.com
Spartans Players to Visit Non-Profit
La Crosse, WI: The La Crosse Spartans will be attending a Day Service Group at Riverfront, Inc. here in La Crosse on Wednesday of this week. Riverfront is a local non-profit organization that helps over 1,700 people with disabilities continue to work and be active members of the community by offering jobs and life coaching to its staff and employees.
The Day Service group provides groups for socialization and recreation opportunities and learning experiences. The Spartans will be visiting with these individuals, signing autographs, and taking pictures from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday the 20th.
Individual game tickets for the La Crosse Spartans second season in the Indoor Football League are on sale now at the La Crosse Center box office. Tickets for all seven home games are on sale now for as little as $7 including the Spartans next home game on April 22nd against the Bloomington Extreme.
Group ticket packages and special family four-pack offers are also available by calling the Spartans ticket office at 608-782-4461. To purchase single-game tickets, stop by the La Crosse Center box office or visit www.ticketmaster.com.
Spartans Travel to Sioux Falls
La Crosse, WI: Week Eight of the IFL season saw the La Crosse Spartans drop a 54-40 contest on the road in Chicago as the team fell to 3-3 on the young season. Week Nine will definitely not be any easier as injury-riddled La Crosse heads to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to take on the 5-0 Sioux Falls Storm on Friday, April 15th, at 7:05 p.m.
Sioux Falls has run rough-shot over all five opponents they’ve faced this season winning by an average margin of 45 points. Their closest game was a 48-38 win over Omaha last week, a team that beat the Spartans in Week Four 40-20. The Storm is averaging 81 points a game and have two games over 90 points this season. They lead the league in total points scored and yards per game and are second in the league (behind La Crosse) in total rushing yards. Leading the attack is quarterback Chris Dixon, the 2010 IFL MVP. He has thrown for 1,011 yards, 27 touchdowns, only throwing three interceptions while rushing for an additional 209 yards and nine TD’s.
La Crosse will be forced to contend with Dixon and the rest of the Storm without much of its usual roster. The injury list for the Spartans is long as the team will likely be without Michael Ebanks (DL), Jamil Abdullah (S), Buddy Rivera (QB), Tommie Williams (CB), and possibly Courtney Abbott (OL). Abbott was hurt back on April 3rd, while all others were injured in last week’s game against the Slaughter. Ryan Maiuri will get the start at quarterback assuming Rivera’s injury does not improve. Maiuri started the first two games of the season for the Spartans before Rivera took over and went 3-1 as the team’s starter.
It’s not all bleak though for La Crosse as the team is still just two games out of first in the tough Great Lakes Division and sits just one game out of a playoff spot. The Spartans have been led by rookie runningback LaRon Council who leads the league in total rushes (70), third in rushing yards (239), and eighth in rushing TD’s (5). As a team, the Spartans lead the entire IFL with 641 rushing yards and have three players (Council, Rivera, and Maiuri) in the top 15 in rushing yards.
Defensively, second-year Spartan Xzavie Jackson continues to lead the IFL with six quarterback sacks and has anchored a defense that is surrendering just 206.7 yards per game (11th overall) and just 52.8 yards on the ground (9th overall.) The Spartans defense has also scored five defensive touchdowns this season after recording just one defensive touchdown in 2010.
The game can be viewed online at www.americaone.com. From the America One page, follow the “Football” link to the IFL page and click on the La Crosse Spartans link. America One does charge a one-time fee of $8 to watch the broadcast. Kickoff for Saturday’s game will be 7:00 p.m. central standard time.
Additionally, the game can be followed live for free without a live audio/video feed on www.goifl.com. From the home page, click on the live scoring link and select the game to follow play-by-play of the game.
Rematch Set for Saturday
La Crosse, WI: This weekend’s matchup between the La Crosse Spartans (3-2, 0-1) and the Chicago Slaughter (3-2, 1-2) has a lot on the line. Both teams find themselves at 3-2 on the young season and tied for second place in arguably the IFL’s toughest division, the Great Lakes Division. Bloomington and Green Bay sit tied for first at 4-1 and split their two meetings already this year. Bloomington takes on Lehigh Valley this weekend while Green Bay is on the road. A Bloomington win moves them into sole possession with Chicago or La Crosse fighting for third. Chicago currently holds the tie-breaker on the Spartans at 3-2 after winning at the La Crosse Center on February 19th 69-48.
Most would agree that the first meeting between the Spartans and Slaughter was closer than the score indicates as the Spartans roared back from an early deficit to tie the game at 48-48 with three minutes left to play. Chicago tacked on three scores in the final three minutes, two of which, came late in the game when most thought the team would take a knee.
Both teams’ lineups have changed since that Kickoff Classic, as both teams will have different starting quarterbacks for this weekend’s game. Chicago will have Ben Sankey at the helm while La Crosse will likely start Buddy Rivera at QB. Sankey, an indoor veteran, is coming off a 52-44 loss to Bloomington on Saturday despite throwing for 238 yards and five touchdowns. Rivera is 3-0 as the team’s starting play-caller this season and notched four touchdowns against Nebraska on Sunday in the team’s 50-44 win.
A win this Saturday in Chicago would move the Spartans’ winning streak to four consecutive games and move them out of last place in the division for the first time ever. The Spartans were successful on the road in Chicago last year, stealing a low-scoring affair there last year to secure their first-ever road win. La Crosse is 1-1 on the road this season.
The game can be viewed online at www.americaone.com. From the America One page, follow the “Football” link to the IFL page and click on the La Crosse Spartans link. America One does charge a one-time fee of $8 to watch the broadcast. Kickoff for Saturday’s game will be 7:00 p.m. central standard time.
Additionally, the game can be followed live for free without a live audio/video feed on www.goifl.com. From the home page, click on the live scoring link and select the game to follow play-by-play of the game.
Individual game tickets for the La Crosse Spartans second season in the Indoor Football League are on sale now at the La Crosse Center box office. Tickets for all seven home games are on sale now for as little as $7 including the Spartans next home game on April 22nd against the Bloomington Extreme.
Group ticket packages and special family four-pack offers are also available by calling the Spartans ticket office at 608-782-4461. To purchase single-game tickets, stop by the La Crosse Center box office or visit www.ticketmaster.com.
Brown Takes Leave of Absence
La Crosse, WI: La Crosse Spartans general manager Chris Kokalis announced today that head coach Gilbert Brown will be taking an indefinite leave of absence from the team and his coaching duties to tend to personal and family matters. Kokalis has named assistant coach Kyle Moore-Brown as the team’s interim head coach. Defensive coordinator Mitch Madland will take over duties as assistant head coach.
“Our thoughts are with Coach Brown as he handles some off the field matters,” Kokalis said. “I have the utmost confidence in Kyle that he can step in and continue us on the road to success. I believe he is one of the best coaches in this league and I’m confident in turning things over to him at this time. This organization’s focus is on winning and I know that Kyle and all of our coaches share that focus.”
Individual game tickets for the La Crosse Spartans second season in the IFL are now on sale. Tickets including Bud Light Party Zone tickets for all seven home games are on sale now for as little as $7 including the Spartans next home game against the Nebraska Danger on Sunday, April 3rd.
Group ticket packages and special family four-pack offers are also available by calling the Spartans ticket office at 608-782-4461. To purchase single-game tickets, stop by the La Crosse Center box office or visit www.ticketmaster.com. Any media inquires should be directed to Chris Kokalis.
Ticket Special for Sunday's Game!
La Crosse, WI: The La Crosse Spartans, riding high on a two-game winning streak and a 2-2 record, will host the Nebraska Danger this Sunday, April 3rd, at 3:00 pm at the La Crosse Center. To honor the team’s winning streak, the Spartans will be doing a ticket special for the upcoming game.
On Tuesday, March 29th, from 9am-7pm all 100 level, 200 level, and 300 sideline tickets will be HALF PRICE! To take advantage of this special offer you must order your tickets through the Spartans office at 608-782-4461.
Additionally, for today only, all Spartans season ticket holders will get an early opportunity to take advantage of this offer by calling the Spartans office between Noon and 5pm!
Individual game tickets for the La Crosse Spartans second season in the Indoor Football League are on sale now at the La Crosse Center box office. Tickets for all seven home games are on sale now for as little as $7 including the Spartans next home game on April 3rd against the expansion Nebraska Danger.
Group ticket packages and special family four-pack offers are also available by calling the Spartans ticket office at 608-782-4461. To purchase single-game tickets, stop by the La Crosse Center box office or visit www.ticketmaster.com
Spartans Take Their Game Outdoors
La Crosse, WI: It is Week Six of the La Crosse Spartans’ second season in the IFL but the franchise will be accomplishing two “firsts” this weekend and hoping for a third. The Spartans will take on the Richmond Revolution on the road this weekend, as the two teams will do battle for the first time. It will also be the first time the Spartans have ever played outdoors, as Richmond plays their games outside at the Sports Quest Campus in Midlothian, Virginia, while they await the construction of a new arena. The “third” first would come if the team is able to record the victory and move to a .500 record for the first time in franchise history.
The Spartans will hit the outdoors with a record of 1-2 after a dominant 66-28 win over the Kent Predators last Thursday night. Spartans running back LaRon Council found the endzone three times in that game and has emerged as the team’s go-to back and will once again start this weekend. Now starting quarterback Buddy Rivera also emerged as he received his first start of the season and contributed four TD’s of his own. Rivera is currently tied for third in the league in rushing yards (138), which surprisingly is only second-best among quarterbacks.
Richmond enters the contest at 1-2 as well after recording their first win of the season last weekend over Lehigh Valley. The Revolution, who are trying to get into the playoffs for the second straight season, outlasted the Steelhawks 48-45 in overtime to notch the “W” behind 110 yards rushing and three scores on the ground by a host of Revolution players. Spartans defensive lineman, Xzavie Jackson (Vidswap.com’s Week 5 IFL Defensive Player of the Week) will have to anchor the Spartans defensive line against a potent Richmond ground attack in order for the Spartans to even their record at 2-2. Jackson currently leads the IFL in sacks (5) and blocked kick attempts (3).
The game can be viewed online at www.americaone.com. From the America One page, follow the “Football” link to the IFL page and click on the La Crosse Spartans link. America One does charge a one-time fee of $8 to watch the broadcast. Kickoff for Saturday’s game will be 6:00 p.m. central standard time.
Additionally, the game can be followed live for free without a live audio/video feed on www.goifl.com. From the home page, click on the live scoring link and select the game to follow play-by-play of the game.
Individual game tickets for the La Crosse Spartans second season in the Indoor Football League are on sale now at the La Crosse Center box office. Tickets for all seven home games are on sale now for as little as $7 including the Spartans next home game on April 3rd against the expansion Nebraska Danger.
Group ticket packages and special family four-pack offers are also available by calling the Spartans ticket office at 608-782-4461. To purchase single-game tickets, stop by the La Crosse Center box office or visit www.ticketmaster.com
Spartans Game Available Online
La Crosse, WI: The La Crosse Spartans game against the Richmond Revolution this Saturday will not air on the Spartans flagship station KQ98. Due to the length of the trip, KQ98 broadcasters were not able to travel.
The game can be viewed online at www.americaone.com. From the America One page, follow the “Football” link to the IFL page and click on the La Crosse Spartans link. America One does charge a one-time fee of $8 to watch the broadcast. Kickoff for Saturday’s game will be 6:00 p.m. central standard time.
Additionally, the game can be followed live for free without a live audio/video feed on www.goifl.com. From the home page, click on the live scoring link and select the game to follow play-by-play of the game.
Individual game tickets for the La Crosse Spartans second season in the Indoor Football League are on sale now at the La Crosse Center box office. Tickets for all seven home games are on sale now for as little as $7 including the Spartans next home game on April 3rd against the expansion Nebraska Danger.
Tickets for the brand-new all you care to drink and eat “party zone” are on sale as well. Tickets for these sections can be purchased in advance for $25 by calling the Spartans office. Limited seating is available so fans are encouraged to pre-order tickets and avoid paying $30 the day of the game. Party zone tickets are not available at the La Crosse Center box office prior to game day.
Group ticket packages and special family four-pack offers are also available by calling the Spartans ticket office at 608-782-4461. To purchase single-game tickets, stop by the La Crosse Center box office or visit www.ticketmaster.com
Jackson Named Defensive Player of the Week
La Crosse, WI: The La Crosse Spartans are proud to announce that defensive lineman Xzavie Jackson has been named the Vidswap.com Week Five Defensive Player of the Week for the Indoor Football League.
Jackson led the Spartans to their first win of the season last Thursday by racking up three quarterback sacks to go along with a blocked field goal attempt which lead to a defensive touchdown for teammate Walner Belleus. He also had constant pressure on Kent Predators quarterback Charles McCollum and held the league’s second highest-scoring offense to just 20 points. In his last two games, Jackson has racked up five sacks and three blocked field goal attempts. He leads the IFL in both categories after five weeks.
Individual game tickets for the La Crosse Spartans second season in the Indoor Football League are on sale now at the La Crosse Center box office. Tickets for all seven home games are on sale now for as little as $7 including the Spartans next home game on April 3rd against the expansion Nebraska Danger.
Tickets for the brand-new all you care to drink and eat “party zone” are on sale as well. Tickets for these sections can be purchased in advance for $25 by calling the Spartans office. Limited seating is available so fans are encouraged to pre-order tickets and avoid paying $30 the day of the game. Party zone tickets are not available at the La Crosse Center box office prior to game day.
Group ticket packages and special family four-pack offers are also available by calling the Spartans ticket office at 608-782-4461. To purchase single-game tickets, stop by the La Crosse Center box office or visit www.ticketmaster.com
All IFL'er Signs With Spartans
La Crosse, WI: The La Crosse Spartans have signed one of the most decorated linebackers in indoor football in recent history. Joe Bevis, a University of Illinois graduate, has signed with the second-year franchise. Bevis was just released by the Bloomington Extreme on March 2nd.
Bevis was selected to First-Team All IFL in 2008 and 2009 as a member of the River City Rage. Last season, Bevis lead the Extreme with 103 tackles (5th best in IFL) in 14 games to go along with one sack, three interceptions, and four forced fumbles. He has recorded 308 tackles in 46 games over his three seasons in the IFL and has been in the top 10 amongst defensive players all three of those years.
“The addition of Joe bolsters what we already feel is a solid defense,” Spartans General Manager Chris Kokalis said. “His experience along with the youth of Wes McDermott gives us a great linebacking corps and both will contribute for us.”
The Spartans also signed Rodney Etienne, a 6’2” 220 lbs defensive back who played collegiately at Akron and Morgan State. Etienne finished 2009 as a member of the Bears’ defensive backfield as a safety. He is likely to play safety and corner for the Spartans and will be uniform as the Spartans travel to Omaha this weekend.
Individual game tickets for the La Crosse Spartans second season in the Indoor Football League are on sale now at the La Crosse Center box office. Tickets for all seven home games are on sale now for as little as $7 including the Spartans next home game on March 17th.
Tickets for the brand-new all you care to drink and eat “party zone” are on sale as well. Tickets for these sections can be purchased in advance for $25 by calling the Spartans office. Limited seating is available so fans are encouraged to pre-order tickets and avoid paying $30 the day of the game. Party zone tickets are not available at the La Crosse Center box office prior to game day.
Group ticket packages and special family four-pack offers are also available by calling the Spartans ticket office at 608-782-4461. To purchase single-game tickets, stop by the La Crosse Center box office or visit www.ticketmaster.com
Spartans' Training Camp Begins
La Crosse, WI: Year two of the La Crosse Spartans begins this weekend when training camp opens for the 2011 season. Conditioning tests and team meetings will take place tonight, while official practice begins on Sunday at 10:30 a.m. at La Crosse Logan High School. Sunday’s sessions will feature a practice from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 2:30-4:30 p.m. with both sessions open to media and the public.
The Spartans, who finished last season 3-11, open camp with 38 players, only 13 of which played last season for the Spartans. “After a long off-season, it’s nice to get back to work and on the field,” Spartans General Manager Chris Kokalis said. “We’re excited to have a good group of returnees and a good group of new talent that hopefully can take us to the next level.”
The second-year franchise will have 14 practices prior to their season opener on February 19th at the La Crosse Center against division-rival Chicago Slaughter in the IFL Kickoff Classic. Kokalis along with Head Coach Gilbert Brown and his staff will cut from 38 players down to 30 after practice on Monday the 7th. The second round of cuts will take place after February 13th’s practice as the roster will be trimmed to the final 25-man roster.
Individual game tickets for the La Crosse Spartans second season in the Indoor Football League are on sale now at the La Crosse Center box office. Tickets for all seven home games including the nationally televised home opener are available beginning at just $7. The first 1,000 fans through doors on the 19th will receive a pair of thundersticks courtesy of Ashley Furniture.
Tickets for the brand-new all you care to drink and eat “party zone” are on sale as well. Tickets for these sections can be purchased in advance for $25 by calling the Spartans office. Limited seating is available so fans are encouraged to pre-order tickets and avoid paying $30 the day of the game. Party zone tickets are not available at the La Crosse Center box office prior to game day.
Spartans Return Five for 2011
La Crosse, WI: The La Crosse Spartans have re-signed five more players from last year’s squad to its training camp roster for 2011. Highlighting the returnees is defensive lineman Xzavie Jackson and safety Jamil Abdullah. Jackson, known as “X” to Spartans fans, was tied for second on the team in tackles last year with 53 stops. He led the team in sacks with five and a half sacks, one fumble forced, and four blocked kicks. The Missouri product also helped on the offensive side of the ball with two rushing touchdowns.
Joining Jackson on the defensive side of the ball is safety Jamil Abdullah. Jamil also recorded 53 tackles to go along with one safety and two interceptions in just 11 games. He missed three games during the season with a shoulder injury that looks to be healed heading into training camp on February 5th.
Also returning for the team’s second season on the offensive side of the ball are Juliene Adams (OL), Phillip Ditto (WR), and Hakeem Abdullah (RB.) Adams joined the Spartans a few weeks into the 2010 season and helped anchor the team’s offensive line. Ditto returns after catching 14 passes for 111 yards in seven games last year and Adbullah is back after being sidelined much of 2010 with an injury. After starting the season at running back, Abdullah injured his leg and was sidelined the final 7 games of the season. The dual threat accounted for 13 carries, 18 yards rushing, and one touchdown on the ground while catching 14 passes for 138 yards and one score through the air.
“We’re excited to have these guys back with us for our second season,” Spartans General Manager Chris Kokalis said. “All four were great leaders on the field last year and we look for more of the same in 2011.”
Individual game tickets for the La Crosse Spartans second season in the Indoor Football League are on sale now at the La Crosse Center box office. Tickets for all seven home games including the nationally televised home opener are available beginning at just $7.
Tickets for the brand-new all you care to drink and eat “party zone” are on sale as well. Tickets for these sections can be purchased in advance for $25 by calling the Spartans office. Limited seating is available so fans are encouraged to pre-order tickets and avoid paying $30 the day of the game. Party zone tickets are not available at the La Crosse Center box office prior to game day.
Group ticket packages and special family four-pack offers are also available by calling the Spartans ticket office at 608-782-4461. To purchase single-game tickets, stop by the La Crosse Center box office or visit www.ticketmaster.com
Spartans Home Opener on National TV
La Crosse, WI: For the first time in the history of indoor football in La Crosse, Wisconsin, a national television crew will air the Spartans season opener at the La Crosse Center. The La Crosse Spartans home opener against the Chicago Slaughter on February 19th will be aired live on America One Networks which has 44 million viewers all across the United States. The game will air on a number of their syndicated networks, which will be finalized in the coming days, as well as available for free on iphone, ipad, and at www.americaone.com.
This game is the first of a series of games that will be aired by America One as part of their deal with the Indoor Football League. IFL Commissioner Tommy Benizio and his entire staff will be in attendance as the Spartans host the IFL Kickoff Classic at 7:00 p.m. against the Slaughter, a team the Spartans beat twice last season.
“The IFL is very excited for the city of La Crosse and the league itself as we get this chance to showcase the community and our game to the nation,” Benizio said. “We continue to work towards proving ourselves as America’s premier indoor league and believe that displaying this game will assist our efforts in achieving that goal.”
The Spartans are calling for the entire city of La Crosse and surrounding communities to show their support and to show the entire nation how La Crosse supports its sports teams. “We are more than excited that we have a chance to display this fine city, our team, and our fans to the entire country,” La Crosse Spartans General Manager Chris Kokalis said. “We want the Center to be the loudest arena in the league this year and it all starts with a chance to showcase our great fans on national television.”
Ashley Furniture, the game’s headline sponsor, will be providing free Spartans thundersticks to the first 1,000 fans through the doors on the 19th. Special ticket upgrades and packages are available for this special event by calling the Spartans office. Tickets for the brand-new all you care to drink and eat “party zone” are on sale as well. Tickets for these sections can be purchased in advance for $25 by calling the Spartans office. Limited seating is available so fans are encouraged to pre-order tickets and avoid paying $30 the day of the game. Party zone tickets are not available at the La Crosse Center box office prior to game day.
Group ticket packages and special family four-pack offers are also available by calling the Spartans ticket office at 608-782-4461. To purchase single-game tickets, stop by the La Crosse Center box office or visit www.ticketmaster.com
Single Game Tickets Go On Sale January 12
La Crosse, WI: Individual game tickets for the La Crosse Spartans second season in the Indoor Football League will go on sale next Wednesday, January 12 at 11:00 a.m. at the La Crosse Center box office. Tickets for all seven home games are available beginning at just $7 and ranging up to just $33 for field-level seats.
Tickets for the brand-new all you care to drink and eat “party zone” will go on sale that day as well. Tickets for these sections can be purchased in advance for $25 by calling the Spartans office. Limited seating is available so fans are encouraged to pre-order tickets and avoid paying $30 the day of the game. Party zone tickets are not available at the La Crosse Center box office prior to game day.
Group ticket packages and special family four-pack offers are also available by calling the Spartans ticket office at 608-782-4461. To purchase single-game tickets, stop by the La Crosse Center box office or visit www.ticketmaster.com
Headd and Belleus Return to Spartans
La Crosse, WI: After a long off-season of trades and free agent signings, the La Crosse Spartans have began the process of re-signing the core of last year’s team. The team announced today its first re-signings for the upcoming 2011 season by inking wide receiver Christopher Headd and defensive back Walner Belleus.
Headd was an indoor football rookie in 2010 but still made an impact offensively by catching 17 passes for 314 yards and three touchdowns while appearing in 11 games. He also drew great compliment throughout the season from head coach Gilbert Brown and general manager Chris Kokalis. “Chris (Headd) was a leader for us despite being a rookie,” Kokalis said. “He worked just as hard as anybody in practice and served as an excellent blocker in our running game. We’re excited about his future.”
Belleus returns to the Spartans’ defensive backfield after leading the team in tackles in 2010. Belleus racked up 69 tackles in 13 games, to go along with two interceptions and seven pass breakups. The University of Iowa product also contributed in the kick return game with seven returns for 106 yards. “Walner gives us a lot at both the corner and safety position,” Kokalis said. “He’s got a nose for the football and great athletic ability which he showed us last season.”
The Spartans also added former UMASS standout Eric Dickson to their secondary. Dickson (5’11”, 210 lbs.) played both safety and cornerback for the Minutemen and finished his senior season with 95 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and two fumbles forced in 2009. Dickson had a career-high 18 tackles against fourth-ranked New Hampshire that season as well.
The second-year franchise will open training camp on February 5. The team is allowed to bring 45 guys into camp and will cut down to its final roster of 25 by February 17, prior to the team’s first game of the season.
The Spartans, entering their second season in the Indoor Football League, were named the 2010 IFL Community Relations Franchise of the Year for their efforts in the community this past season. The team will open the 2011 season with the IFL Kickoff Classic on February 19 against the Chicago Slaughter. Season tickets are now on sale for as low as $84 and can be purchased by calling 608-782-4461 or by visiting www.lacrossespartans.com.
Spartans To Host Free Family Day Scrimmage
La Crosse, WI: The La Crosse Spartans and the La Crosse Public Education Foundation will be working together this year on the Big Family New Year’s Eve event at the La Crosse Center on December 31. The event, which garners crowds of 3,000-4,000 people each year, has been moved from La Crosse Logan High School to the Center and will feature a Spartans player-run scrimmage from 2:00-4:00 p.m. that afternoon. It will be the public’s first chance to see some of the new players the Spartans have signed this off-season.
Admission to the scrimmage and event is free to the public and will also feature an arts and crafts area, games for kids including the Big Event company inflatables, great food, live music, and family entertainment. Following the scrimmage, Spartans players will remain on hand for autographs and a punt, pass, and kick competition for kids. The Lady Spartans dance team will also be hosting a face-painting station at the event which runs until 9:00 p.m.
“We’re excited to be partnering with the La Crosse schools on this great event,” Spartans General Manager Chris Kokalis said. “They’ve done a great job with it in the past and we hope to add to it by showcasing our team to kickoff the event. This is a great chance for families to spend some time together over the Holidays and do so for free.”
La Crosse Spartans season ticket holders will receive VIP seating to the event and can contact the La Crosse Spartans for more information. More information on the event itself is available online at www.thebigfamilynewyearseve.com.
The Spartans, entering their second season in the Indoor Football League, were named the 2010 IFL Community Relations Franchise of the Year for their efforts in the community this past season. The team will open the 2011 season on February 19 against the Chicago Slaughter. Season tickets are now on sale for as low as $84 and can be purchased by calling 608-782-4461 or by visiting www.lacrossespartans.com.
Spartans To Host 2nd Annual Toy Drive
La Crosse, WI: The La Crosse Spartans along with many of their fine sponsors are proud to announce details of the second-annual “A Christmas to Remember” holiday toy drive and community Christmas party on Wednesday, December 15, at 6:00 p.m. The event will once again be held in the Dock Seven Banquet Hall at 1501 St. Andrew St., located in the old La Crosse Footwear building.
Admission to the event is free, but those attending are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy for families in need. The party will feature complimentary hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar, music, door prizes, and autographs from Spartans players and coaches. Last year’s event brought in over 250 toys for area families as Spartans players and staff hand-delivered those toys to local families struggling to make ends meet during the Christmas season.
“This is a very special event for our organization,” Spartans General Manager Chris Kokalis said. “We were very fortunate to have such great support last year. We made a lot of children happy last Christmas and we intend to do the same this year. We hope the public can join us for a great night of giving.”
The Spartans would like to thank many of their sponsors helping to make the event a success including La Crosse Day Care Centers, Premier Catering, La Crosse Mail & Print, ESPN Radio, and Cow 97. In addition, Verizon Wireless in Onalaska has agreed to be a drop off point for people wishing to donate toys but unable to attend the party. Toys can be dropped off at their location at 9360 State Road 16 in Onalaska prior to 6:00 p.m. on the 15th.
The Spartans, entering their second season in the Indoor Football League, were named the 2010 IFL Community Relations Franchise of the Year for their efforts in the community this past season. The team will open the 2011 season on February 19 against the Chicago Slaughter. Season tickets are now on sale for as low as $84 and can be purchased by calling 608-782-4461 or by visiting www.lacrossespartans.com.
Lady Spartans To Hold Fundraiser
La Crosse, WI: The La Crosse Spartans dance team, the Lady Spartans, will be holding a “Holiday Helper” fundraiser this week to help ease the burden of the busy Thanksgiving holiday on families in the La Crosse area. Four different homemade dishes can be purchased for delivery right to your door on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thanksgiving Day. Proceeds from the events will go to cover costs of uniforms for the Lady Spartans dance team.
The menu items and prices are as follows: Pecan-rolled cheese balls with toasted crostini-$10, Crunchy Asian salad with your choice of mandarin oranges or fresh grapefruit-$13, Oven-ready green bean casserole-$12, and homemade pumpkin pie with Chantilly cream-$15. All four items can be purchased as a group package for $43 as well. Delivery of these items are free with the exception of a $10 charge for delivery on Thanksgiving.
“We think it’s a great way to help people during the holiday season,” Lady Spartans coordinator Aubrey Hollnagel said. “We will be cooking these items together so it’s also a great team bonding opportunity for this great new group of women.”
There are three easy ways to order; visit the Lady Spartans Facebook page, email your order to danceteam@lacrossespartans.com, or by calling Felicia at 608-790-1499. Cash or check will be accepted. Make checks payable to La Crosse Spartans.
The Spartans, entering their second season in the Indoor Football League, were named the 2010 IFL Community Relations Franchise of the Year for their efforts in the community this past season. The team will open the 2011 season on February 19 against the Chicago Slaughter. Season tickets are now on sale for as low as $84 and can be purchased by calling 608-782-4461 or by visiting www.lacrossespartans.com.
Spartans Sign Son of NFL Legend
La Crosse, WI: His father was one of the most decorated wide receivers in the NFL in the mid-90’s and now Londen Fryar, son of five-time pro bowler Irving Fryar, hopes to follow in his dad’s footsteps by continuing his football career with the La Crosse Spartans. The 24-year old Fryar comes to La Crosse after spending time with the New York Giants earlier this year. He spent four months on the Giants’ practice squad from December 2009 until March of 2010 after originally signing with the Kansas City Chiefs.
The Western Michigan graduate was a three-time All-MAC performer including back-to-back seasons as a first-team all-conference selection. Fryar (5’11, 192 lbs.) recorded 160 tackles, 27 pass break-ups, and seven INT’s in 33 games at cornerback for the Broncos. Upon graduation in 2009, he rated among the top 50 defensive backs available in the NFL draft by numerous scouting services.
“A guy like Londen brings a lot to our squad,” Spartans General Manager Chris Kokalis said. “Not only is he a talented player with NFL experience, he comes from a great football heritage. He can offer a lot of knowledge and skill to our secondary and we’re hoping for big things from him come February. Our goal is to get him back to the NFL.”
The Spartans, entering their second season in the Indoor Football League, were named the 2010 IFL Community Relations Franchise of the Year for their efforts in the community this past season. The team will open the 2011 season on February 19 against the Chicago Slaughter. Season tickets are now on sale for as low as $84 and can be purchased by calling 608-782-4461 or by visiting www.lacrossespartans.com.
Spartans To Hold 2nd Annual Stuff The Bus Food Drive
La Crosse, WI: The La Crosse Spartans and the Hunger Task Force are proud to host the second-annual Stuff the Bus Food Drive to help local families in need this holiday season. The food drive will take place this Wednesday, November 17, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the La Crosse Center in downtown La Crosse. Ready Bus Line will park a coach bus in front of the arena in an effort to “stuff” it with non-perishable food items.
Last year’s Stuff the Bus raised over 4,000 pounds of food and $1,200 cash for the local non-profit. Officials from the Hunger Task Force said that last year’s event was one of the largest in recent history. The Spartans, along with several local businesses, who have agreed to volunteer, will be on hand to help collect non-perishable food items all day. Volunteers will be stationed on both sides of the street in front of the arena and will come to people’s vehicles to collect donations.
“This is one of those events that we will continue to do because it means so much to so many people,” La Crosse Spartans General Manager Chris Kokalis said. “Last year’s event went very well and we had great support from so many people. There are a lot of families that benefit from this effort and it means a lot to the Spartans to be able to give back.”
For those that would like to donate but can not make it on Wednesday, items can be dropped off at the Verizon Wireless store at 9360 State Road 16 in Onalaska or Secret Sun at 1910 Campbell Road in La Crosse. The Spartans would also like to thank Pepsi and Midwest Family Broadcasting, who will be broadcasting live from the event.
The Spartans, entering their second season in the Indoor Football League, were named the 2010 IFL Community Relations Franchise of the Year for their efforts in the community this past season. The team will open the 2011 season on February 19 against the Chicago Slaughter. Season tickets are now on sale for as low as $84 and can be purchased by calling 608-782-4461 or by visiting www.lacrossespartans.com.
Jefferson To Lead Spartan's Offense
La Crosse, WI: The La Crosse Spartans are very pleased to announce they have reached an agreement with Jose Jefferson to become the team’s offensive coordinator for the upcoming 2011 season. Jefferson fills the void left by Ryan Maiuri who has decided to return to the playing field for the Spartans’ second year in the IFL.
Jefferson comes to the Spartans with a great deal of experience in the indoor game as a coach and a player. A graduate of the University of South Dakota, Jefferson played four years in the Arena Football League including one season with the AFL-champion Arizona Rattlers. He also played three years with the Iowa Barnstormers and Kurt Warner.
“I’m excited to be back in indoor football and I’m excited to have an opportunity to help this franchise,” Jefferson said. “Hopefully we can do some things to get the crowd excited. Honestly, every time I’ve coached against a team in La Crosse, the crowd was always into the games and hopefully we can give them even more to cheer about.”
The Omaha, Nebraska, native really came into his own as a head coach in the indoor leagues, compiling an 86-42 record with three division championships. Most notably, he led the Lincoln Capitols (NIFL) to a 10-4 record and a division title in 2001 and also won a division championship in the UIF (now the IFL) with the Sioux City Bandits. While with the Bandits, Jefferson coached Fred Jackson, now with the Buffalo Bills, and his offense set every offensive record for passing, rushing, and total offensive yards in the team’s history.
Jefferson also has six years of coaching experience at the collegiate level. He spent time at Nebraska Wesleyan University, Midland Lutheran College, and Rockford College. He is currently working locally as a running backs coach for the UW-La Crosse Eagles.
“We’re happy to have Jose’s experience on our coaching staff,” General Manager Chris Kokalis said. “With the offensive weapons we’ve added, I’m looking forward to seeing what he and our other coaches can put together.”
The Spartans, entering their second season in the Indoor Football League, were named the 2010 IFL Community Relations Franchise of the Year for their efforts in the community this past season. The team will open the 2011 season on February 19 against the Chicago Slaughter. Season tickets are now on sale for as low as $84 and can be purchased by calling 608-782-4461 or by visiting www.lacrossespartans.com.
Spartans Finalize Lease
La Crosse, WI: The La Crosse Spartans are pleased to announce they have come to an agreement with their host facility, the La Crosse Center for the 2011 season. Both parties completed negotiations last week as initial signatures were placed on the lease for the team’s second season. The Spartans will host the IFL’s Kickoff Classic on February 19th and will play seven total regular season games over the course of February through June.
The team and arena agreed on a one-year lease, which is common for most indoor football teams. “It’s nice to work with a great group of individuals such as Art Fahey and the La Crosse Center board,” Spartans General Manager Chris Kokalis said. “I think that both parties have a common goal of making this a long-lasting partnership.”
“It’s great to have the deal finalized,” La Crosse Center Executive Director Art Fahey said. “We’re looking for big things in year two from the Spartans.” Kokalis has also worked out a deal with the La Crosse Center to offer the first-ever “Party Zone” at indoor football games in La Crosse. Fans 21 years of age and older will be able to enjoy an exclusive all you can eat and drink beer and soda zone at each Spartans home game. Tickets are expected to be sold for around $25 for that section which might also include some other special deals from Spartans sponsors. Details are still being finalized between the arena and the Spartans for this exciting new section.
In an effort to make Spartan games even more family-friendly and affordable, the team is introducing a $7 ticket in 2011. Over 300 seats will be available in this price range for the upcoming campaign. “We’re very excited to be able to tell a family of four that they can attend a game for less than $30. We feel we had great value last year at the $10 level, but hopefully this allows us to reach even more people,” Kokalis said.
The Spartans, entering their second season in the Indoor Football League, were named the 2010 IFL Community Relations Franchise of the Year for their efforts in the community this past season. The team will open the 2011 season on February 19 against the Chicago Slaughter. Season tickets are now on sale for as low as $84 and can be purchased by calling 608-782-4461 or by visiting www.lacrossespartans.com.
Spartans To Hold IFL Kickoff Classic
La Crosse, WI: The much-anticipated second season of the La Crosse Spartans will begin February 19, 2011, in the IFL’s showcase game, the Kickoff Classic. La Crosse will take on the Chicago Slaughter, a team they defeated twice last season, in the league’s first game of the 2011 season at the La Crosse Center. La Crosse will play seven regular season games at home over the course of February through early June.
Year two of the Spartans’ home schedule includes a St. Patrick’s Day matchup against another second-year franchise, the Kent Predators, who are now coached by former two-time IFL Champion Billings Outlaws head-man Heron O’Neal. The Nebraska Danger, an expansion franchise from Grand Island, Nebraska, visits the Center on April 2 followed by the Bloomington Extreme on April 22. The month of April rounds out with another expansion team, the Lehigh Valley Steel Hawks on April 30.
Last year’s division champion Green Bay Blizzard makes its way to town on May 27, with the Spartans 2011 regular season ending on June 11 at home against Lehigh Valley once again. La Crosse, Chicago, Green Bay, and Bloomington will once again be division rivals in what is now called the Great Lakes division of the United Conference.
A few tough road tests will mark the Spartans’ travels this season. In addition to visiting division foes on the road one time each, the Spartans will travel to Sioux Falls to face the Storm, the reigning United Conference champions. The Spartans also travel to Omaha, Nebraska, and Richmond, Virginia, to round out their road schedule.
Week Date Opponent Kickoff
1 February 19th Chicago 7:00pm
2 BYE
3 BYE
4 March 12th @ Omaha
5 March 17th Kent 7:00pm
6 March 26th @ Richmond
7 April 2nd Nebraska 7:00pm
8 April 9th @ Chicago
9 April 15th @ Sioux Falls
10 April 22nd Bloomington 7:00pm
11 April 30th Lehigh Valley 7:00pm
12 May 7th @ Green Bay
13 BYE
14 May 21st @ Richmond
15 May 27th Green Bay 7:00pm
16 June 3rd @ Bloomington
17 June 11th Lehigh Valley 7:00pm
*Home games in bold
Spartans Add Two
La Crosse, WI: The La Crosse Spartans, a second-year franchise in the IFL, have added two more players to their training camp roster for the 2011 campaign. On the defensive side of the ball, Jeremy Maddox (6’0”, 255 lbs.) from Alabama A&M will join the Spartans defensive line at defensive end. Robert Kirvin (6’4”, 230 lbs), who played collegiately at the University of Sioux Falls, also signed a one-year deal with the team.
Maddox spent some time with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the CFL earlier this year after finishing as Alabama A&M’s second all-time leading sack and tackles for loss leader behind NFL-great Robert Mathis. In 2009, Maddox finished with 41 tackles, 16.5 TFL, 12 sacks, and two forced fumbles in 11 games. His 12 quarterback sacks was second-best in the nation Division I FCS. As a junior, he posted 14 TFL and 10 sacks for the Bulldogs.
Kirvin, a wide receiver with indoor experience with the Iowa Blackhawks of the APFL, was signed after the team’s open tryout in La Crosse on October 10. Kirvin, listed at 6’4” is the tallest receiver on the Spartans training camp roster up to this point.
“Jeremy gives us some great depth on our defensive line. He was a beast in college and we think he’ll continue that success as a pass rusher for us,” Spartans General Manager Chris Kokalis said. “Robert is a nice addition for our offense. He’s a big target and we hope he’ll make an impact for us in February.”
The Spartans, entering their second season in the Indoor Football League, were named the 2010 IFL Community Relations Franchise of the Year for their efforts in the community this past season. Season tickets are now on sale for the 2011 season for as low as $84 and can be purchased by calling 608-782-4461 or by visiting www.lacrossespartans.com.
Council Joins Backfield
La Crosse, WI: After leading the Northwest Missouri State Bearcats to the Division II national championship in 2009, LaRon Council’s next step toward a NFL career will be with the La Crosse Spartans. Council, one of the most decorated runningbacks in Division II over the last two years, has a laundry list of accolades under his belt as he begins his professional football journey with the Spartans after being released from Minnesota Vikings training camp earlier this year.
Council (5’10”, 210 lbs.) led the entire Division II nation with 35 touchdowns in 2008 and was third in the nation with 1,739 yards. That season he was named to the third team Little All-American team which is the top selections for players in Division II, III, and NAIA. Last season, Council ran for 1,782 yards and 22 touchdowns, both good for fourth-best in the country.
He was named the MIAA Offensive Player of the Year and was a finalist for the Harlon Hill award while leading the Bearcats to the school’s third national championship last year. The school made it to the national championship in 2008 as well but finished as the runner-up for the fourth year in a row. He completed his career as the school’s second-leading rusher all time with 4,044 yards and 59 TD’s.
“LaRon has what it takes to get himself to the NFL and our league hopefully will give him an opportunity to shine,” La Crosse Spartans General Manager Chris Kokalis said. “This is a major addition to our offense as LaRon was one of the most sought-after backs available. It’s going to be a lot of fun having him in the backfield.”
The Spartans, entering their second season in the Indoor Football League, were named the 2010 IFL Community Relations Franchise of the Year for their efforts in the community this past season. Season tickets are now on sale for the 2011 season for as low as $84 and can be purchased by calling 608-782-4461 or by visiting www.lacrossespartans.com.
