THUNDER'S LOCAL LEGENDS PROGRAM GOES LEAGUE-WIDE
2007-01-17 00:00:00
2007-01-17 00:00:00
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- Taking a successful concept on the team level to the a league-wide effort, the World Indoor Football League announces that all four teams will honor "Local Legends" during the 2007 season.
The Daytona Beach Thunder started the program last year, recognizing a former local high school standout, who after his college and/or professional playing days concluded, contributed to his community.
"Local Legends" received a team jersey bearing their high school number and were recognized during pre-game activities.
"In some cases, it was our way of saying thanks to the coaches who helped myself, my players and my coaches during our formative years,’’ said Thunder CEO Zack McDonald. "But in others, we came to appreciate the accomplishments of others both on and off the field."
Last year's honorees in Daytona Beach included the late Tommy Durrance, Willie Lager, Earl Johnson Chris Issac, Reggie Beverly, Tom Morris and Bill Moreman, "I saw how Daytona Beach handled this last year and was truly impressed,’’ said WIFL commissioner Gary Tufford. "What an incredible way to connect with the local football community with a simple and sincere gesture."
The league’s other three teams look forward.to including the Local Legends into their gamedays.
"I love the concept, especially since I’m coaching in my hometown,’’ said Augusta coach Bubba Diggs. "I played with and against some great players and some great people. This is a no-brainer."
Osceola Ghostriders coach Marquette Smith, who played his high school at nearby Lake Howell High School and his final two years of college at UCF -- agreed.
"This is Florida – a lot of great football is being played," Smith said. "Osceola county is a hotbed of high school football – this will bring back some cool memories."
Columbus Lions coach Jason Gibson appreciates the effort to tie in with his area’s past.
"We’re trying to build a tradition, but that takes times," Gibson said. "So we’ll borrow someone else’s for a few minutes."
Each team will accept suggestions for Local Legends nominees through the league's fan site at http://www.wiflfan.com
The Daytona Beach Thunder started the program last year, recognizing a former local high school standout, who after his college and/or professional playing days concluded, contributed to his community.
"Local Legends" received a team jersey bearing their high school number and were recognized during pre-game activities.
"In some cases, it was our way of saying thanks to the coaches who helped myself, my players and my coaches during our formative years,’’ said Thunder CEO Zack McDonald. "But in others, we came to appreciate the accomplishments of others both on and off the field."
Last year's honorees in Daytona Beach included the late Tommy Durrance, Willie Lager, Earl Johnson Chris Issac, Reggie Beverly, Tom Morris and Bill Moreman, "I saw how Daytona Beach handled this last year and was truly impressed,’’ said WIFL commissioner Gary Tufford. "What an incredible way to connect with the local football community with a simple and sincere gesture."
The league’s other three teams look forward.to including the Local Legends into their gamedays.
"I love the concept, especially since I’m coaching in my hometown,’’ said Augusta coach Bubba Diggs. "I played with and against some great players and some great people. This is a no-brainer."
Osceola Ghostriders coach Marquette Smith, who played his high school at nearby Lake Howell High School and his final two years of college at UCF -- agreed.
"This is Florida – a lot of great football is being played," Smith said. "Osceola county is a hotbed of high school football – this will bring back some cool memories."
Columbus Lions coach Jason Gibson appreciates the effort to tie in with his area’s past.
"We’re trying to build a tradition, but that takes times," Gibson said. "So we’ll borrow someone else’s for a few minutes."
Each team will accept suggestions for Local Legends nominees through the league's fan site at http://www.wiflfan.com
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