Portland Thunder Become Portland Steel

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(photo credit: Portland Steel/Twitter)

For a young organization growing increasingly accustomed to transition, the Arena Football League’s Portland franchise announced on Tuesday an official name change from its two-year presence as the Portland Thunder to the new, region-influenced Portland Steel.

The moniker switch continues a tumultuous offseason in which the team’s original owner, Terry Emmert, saw his control of the team relinquished in early January to the league itself.  Quickly establishing their authority, the AFL relieved the entire coaching and front office staff of their positions.

The league appointed long-time coach Ron James as the Steel’s head coach and general manager. James had previously coached the Las Vegas (now Cleveland) Gladiators, Utah Blaze, and Pittsburgh Thunder. James replaces Andy Olson, who was hired in September of this offseason and ends his short tenure having not coached a single play for the team. The Thunder had two coaches during their first two seasons in the league: Matthew Sauk in their inaugural 2014 season, and Mike Hohensee last season. For those keeping track at home, that’s four head coaches before the start of a third season in existence.

In a letter to fans through the team website on Feb. 3, Emmert expressed his apologies and sympathies to the Portland Thunder fans as he reflected on the league’s takeover of the team. Emmert stated that the league’s announcement in January caught him “off-guard” as he believed both sides had been “negotiating in good faith” up until that point. Emmert cites some of the AFL’s operating procedures, specifically with their medical insurance policies, as a reason for the rift between the two sides.

Pushing forward, the AFL is ecstatic about the change: “This is a historic day in Portland Arena Football history as the Arena Football League and the staff of the Portland organization focus on setting a new foundation with the exciting announcement that the team will be rebranded as the Portland Steel, effective immediately.” Commenting on the new name itself, James explains: “The name `Steel' implies the strength needed to withstand the tough, action-packed game of Arena Football.”

The Steel will continue to play their home games at the Moda Center, with training camp starting on March 9 and will host the Arizona Rattlers in their first game of the season on April 1.

Fans can follow the new team at their new website (pdxsteel.com) and their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts (@pdxsteel).

The AFL and San Antonio: How 2016 Could be a Bridge for 2017

(photo credit: bizjournals.com)

The 2016 Arena Football League season is starting up in less than a month from now, but not without some questions. It’s going to be a tough year on the league for sure. This offseason alone will no doubt go down as the worst offseason in AFL history.

The day after the regular season ended, the Las Vegas Outlaws and the New Orleans Voodoo ceased operations. On Sept. 1, the Spokane Empire (at the time they were the Spokane Shock) moved to the Indoor Football League (IFL).

A major black eye occurred on Oct. 30 when the league announced there would be no expansion in 2016, just hours before the San Antonio Spurs were going to announce that they had been awarded a team for the 2016 season. This city has not had a team since the San Antonio Talons played in the league from 2012-2014.

A few weeks later, the defending champion San Jose Sabercats folded. Then on Jan. 6, the AFL took over operations for the Portland Thunder.

Because of this, the AFL will have only eight teams in 2016. But with all the bad things that have happened since 2015 ended, there are some bright things on the horizon for the AFL.

In November, Philadelphia Soul majority owner Craig Spencer announced that there would be six new teams in 2017. Three of them would be owned by the Spurs, Sacramento Kings, and Washington Wizards. The other three would be in Mexico.

New Era was announced as a new sponsor for the league, and just recently, Wizards owner Ted Leonsis confirmed Spencer's announcement of the Wizards wanting to get involved.

The Wizards and Kings aren’t the only NBA teams that want to get involved with the AFL. The NBA's model franchise also has interest in starting up an AFL franchise. 

The Spurs needed some time to get ready to host an AFL franchise. Which is why they renovated the AT&T Center this past summer. They went out and bought a field. Officials from their WNBA team, the San Antonio Stars even confirmed that they knew of the Spurs getting a team.

So when word came that the official announcement would come at the Spurs home opener on Oct. 30, I made sure to be there.

At 4:30 in the afternoon, the AFL issued the most infamous press release in it’s history.

Just under three hours until the Spurs were set to announce they had been awarded a franchise, the AFL announced that there would be no expansion in 2016.

Just a few days later, the Spurs announced they had purchased Toyota Field, and would eventually announce a team in the USL that is now known as San Antonio FC.

The road to this 2016 season has been a tough one.

We’ve lost four teams, we’ve had a black eye for the ages placed upon us, we’ve had to take over another and rebrand it. But on this long road, there’s been signs of hope that the Spurs will get the AFL team that they have been trying to get for years.

As ArenaFan.coms Adam Markowitz and others have said, it’s inevitable that the Spurs will have a team. Sources have confirmed that the Spurs want to get involved with the AFL because the Cleveland Cavaliers are successful with their ownership of the Gladiators. Getting the Wizards a team will only help the Spurs want to get in, and they eventually will.

We still have to survive the 2016 season, and who knows what is going to happen off the field wise, but the future looks bright for once, and that future is with Spurs Sports And Entertainment.

Sharks to Hold Second Open Player Tryout

(photo credit: jaxsharks.com)

The Jacksonville Sharks have announced they will hold a second open player tryout as they prepare for the 2016 campaign. 

The tryout will take place on Sunday, March 6, at Plantation Park on the turf field behind Fruit Cove Middle School. For directions, the specific address is 3060 Race Track Road, Fruit Cove, FL 32259.

For those that did not participate in the tryout on Feb. 13, or those who desire a second opportunity, this tryout will follow the same format.

Similar to the Orange Park workout, open to anyone over age 18 who has completed high school, and is not currently under contract with any professional football team. However, this tryout will begin promptly at 3 p.m, with registration beginning at 2 p.m.

Participants are encouraged to bring the completed 2016 Tryout Packet (available at jaxsharks.com/teamtryouts), and bring a cash payment of $80. No other forms of payment will be accepted.

This particular workout will take place on a turf surface, and not natural grass, so all players are required to bring appropriate footwear. The tryout will also feature a combination of drills, including the 40-yard dash, 20-yard shuttle, and other position-specific drills. Kickers will not be evaluated at this time.

Once each player has been properly evaluated by head coach Les Moss and the Sharks coaching staff, the tryout will conclude.

Storm Acquire QB Johnathon Bane

(photo credit: richmond.com)

The Tampa Bay Storm have acquired rookie QB Johnathon Bane, according to Vice President of Football Operations Jeff Gooch.

"Johnathon is a quarterback that has quick release that is needed for the indoor game," Gooch said, "We look forward to seeing him come out to compete in training camp.

Bane played his collegiate football at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, SD. During his time there, he was a three-time All-Great Plains Athletic Conference selection. He also led the Tigers to an 8-3 record during his senior season, the fourth 8-3 season in program history.

When he graduated, he finished with just under 10,000 yards passing yards and 83 touchdowns. He also finished as the school's all-time leading passer.

Bane may be a rookie in the Arena Football League, but he is not a rookie out of college. He is the former QB of the Indoor Football League's Richmond Raiders. He will now look to compete for the Storm's starting QB job when the team begins training camp March 10.

Rattlers assigned DL Luis Vasquez

(photo credit: arenafootball.com)

The Arizona Rattlers were assigned defensive lineman Luis Vasquez for the 2016 Arena Football League season. This will be Vasquez’s first season with the Rattlers and his sixth season in the AFL. Before joining the Rattlers, Vasquez was with the San Jose SaberCats for three seasons. During those three seasons, Vasquez had 56.5 tackles, 11 sacks, four forced fumbles and two pass breakups.

Before joining the SaberCats, Vasquez played for the Milwaukee Mustangs. During the 2012 season, he earned second team All-Arena honors with 8.5 sacks, 28.5 tackles and 5 pass breakups. In 2009, Vasquez also spent some time with the National Football League’s Baltimore Ravens. Vasquez attended Arizona State University where he earned all-Pac 12 honors twice after he finished his career with 78 tackles, 8.5 sacks and two forced fumbles.

The Gales Ferry, Connecticut native was considered the best high school player on defense while attending Ledyard High School. He the Eastern Connecticut Conference Most Valuable Player and he earned All-State honors in both 2002-2003 and he was a three time All-Conference honoree from 2001-2003. Vasquez has 104 tackles, 20.0 sacks, 22.5 tackles for loss and four forced fumbles in his Arena Football League career. Before entering the AFL, Vasquez played for the Arkansas Diamonds of the Indoor Football League (IFL). 

Vasquez earned first-team All-IFL honors during the 2010 season. Vasquez also won WSFL defensive player of the year in 2005. WSFL is a league for junior colleges in Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. Vasquez is a hard hitting lineman who has experience in the AFL. 

He will be a great addition to an already stellar Rattlers defense. Vasquez is the second defensive player acquired by the Rattlers this week joining cornerback Jordan Legree. The Rattlers will play the Portland Thunder on April 1 to kick off the 2016 AFL season. 

Orlando Predators Sign former NFL OL Nathan Isles

(photo credit: usatoday.com)

The Orlando Predators announced the signing of rookie offensive lineman Nathan Isles in a press release on Tuesday.

Isles, who is listed at 6-foot-6 and 350 pounds played collegiality for North Carolina A&T. During his four year college career, he started 31 games and made the All-MEAC second team in his senior year.

After going undrafted in 2014, Isles signed with the Seattle Seahawks. He spent the full season as a member of the practice squad on a team that appeared in Super Bowl XLIX. Isles also spent time on the Arizona Cardinals practice squad in the preseason before heading to the Arena Football League.

“Nate has the combination of size and strength that you look for in an AFL offensive lineman,” said coach Rob Keefe in a press release. “He has a great opportunity to contribute early and we’re looking forward to seeing how he makes the transition during training camp.”

Although Isles has not had a significant amount of professional game experience, the Predators are optimistic his exceptional size and strength will provide the team with an upgrade at offensive line.

Orlando finished first in the American Conference South, with a record of 12-6 last season.

Sharks Look to Take Next Step in 2016

(photo credit: jacksonville.com)

The Jacksonville Sharks underachieved at the beginning of last season, starting 0-5 and quickly earning the “big disappointment” label. They rebounded, winning five of their next six games and finishing the season 10-8. They then took that momentum and ran to two upset road wins, including a dramatic win against the 15-3 Philadelphia Soul, before falling to the San Jose Sabercats in ArenaBowl XXVIII.

This year, their goal is basically ArenaBowl or bust. The good news is that (a) they are guaranteed a playoff berth, as every team will be involved in the postseason, and (b) San Jose isn’t around to defend their title. In what will be arguably the most strategic season in Arena Football League history, Jacksonville will be one of the two or three favorites to get back to, and win, the title game.

Jacksonville, one of only four teams remaining in the American Conference (joining Orlando, Tampa Bay, and Philadelphia) will have tougher competition, as the talent pool remained the same, but condensed to eight teams instead of last season’s 12. With that, they’ll have much more national exposure. Eight of the Sharks’ 16 games will be nationally televised, including three on ESPN2 (the other five will be on CBS Sports Network).

The schedule will be Jacksonville’s biggest opponent in 2016. They will face everyone home and away, and they’ll see both Orlando and Tampa Bay twice, but when will be the big issue. The second half of April will see the Sharks play two games in less than a week, as they host Orlando on the 18th, then host the Arizona Rattlers five days later.

May will open with a similar routine on the road, as they will be in Tampa Bay on May 1 to face the Storm, then in Cleveland to face the Gladiators on May 6. However, May will also give the Sharks a bye week, as they have Week 7 off, then Week 14 off for the league-wide 4th of July bye.

Another plus is an issue that haunted the team throughout last year: chemistry. With talent like QB Tommy Grady (4,660 yds, 95 TD, 11 int, 122.63 passer rating), FB Derrick Ross (586 yds, 14 TD, 4.0 ypc), and WRs Anthony “Tiger” Jones (148 rec, 2,087 yds, 38 TD) and Joe Hills (150 rec, 1,597 yds, 42 TD) coming in, there were growing pains as the team learned to gel and find a rhythm to become the dynamic offense everyone wanted to see. In 2016, with all of the aforementioned stars coming back, they can pick up where they left off...save for the third quarter against San Jose, that is.

On defense, there was as much of an ebb and flow as there was on offense. Yes, there were 26 interceptions and the team finished with a +16 turnover ratio, but they only outscored opponents by less than 4 points per game on average, and the Sharks gave up at least 60 points seven times. With the improvements in the secondary like the return of Micheaux “Pit Bull” Robinson and LaRoche “Action” Jackson, and the addition of Demarcus Robinson; on top of keeping Joe Sykes and Donnie Owens, this defense could return to the formidable front of Jacksonville’s early franchise history.

Given the fact that Jacksonville is in the playoffs before they even take the field, the question is how soon do they start Tommy Grady? Which players will get rest on the short weeks? While there’s chemistry and stability in backup QB R.J. Archer, how will he gel into what is practically a brand new team from his last snaps in red and black in 2014? Also, what if Grady starts Week 1 and Jacksonville gets off to such a hot start that Grady sits out long stretches towards the end? These could be the differences between competing against Arizona, Philadelphia, and Orlando for the #1 seed to simply fighting Tampa Bay and Cleveland for a home quarterfinal.

If the 2016 Jacksonville Sharks keep their momentum from 2015 going, a 3-0 start isn’t out of the question. If they pull off a mild upset of Arizona to improve to 4-0 to open May, watch out, because that could lock in a 7-1 first half when they get into a routine starting with the Philadelphia Soul coming to town for Week 10. Then, the issue of resting players would only come in once the #1 seed is locked down (which, given Arizona and Philadelphia, could come down to the last week of the season).

Players to Watch:

This year the focus is the new faces on defense. Will Demarcus Robinson join Greg Reid, Robinson, and Jackson to create a shutdown secondary? Will the front three create pressure to bring back a return to Sacksonville?

On offense, can London Crawford stay healthy and replace Jeron Harvey as a #3 receiver? For Tommy Grady, can he spread the wealth this year like he did last year? Perhaps go over 5,000 yards? 100 touchdowns? Both?

Jacksonville was one of the popular picks by analysts to represent the American Conference last year, and they did. While you may not hear some talk of running the table, don’t be surprised if you see a lot of Shark-shaped logos when you see predictions for ArenaBowl XXIX. Plus, if Jacksonville can host the title game for the first time ever, a ticket to Veterans Memorial Arena will be pretty hard to come by in August.

Rattlers Acquire Former Arizona Cardinals DB Jimmy Legree

(photo credit: azcardinals.com)

The Arizona Rattlers were assigned linebacker Jimmy Legree for the 2016 Arena Football League season. This will be his first season with the Rattlers and the AFL. Before he signed with the Rattlers, Legree signed with the National Football League’s Arizona Cardinals, where he spent the entire season on the practice squad. 

Legree also spent training camp with the Cardinals before being released. Legree went to college at South Carolina and he had a stellar senior season. Legree had 55 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss and three interceptions. He finished his college career with 67 tackles and six interceptions. The Beaufort, South Carolina native was a multi-sport athlete at Beaufort High School.  He was named the 2008 Beaufort Gazette/Island Packet Defensive Player of the Year as a cornerback.

He also saw time as quarterback, receiver, kick returner and tailback during his high school career.  Legree also competed in track, running the hurdles and sprints. The Rattlers will greatly benefit from the assignment of Legree. He is very talented, he is very agile and his athleticism will help the Rattlers greatly. He is also very versatile and he will add a lot to the Rattlers defense. 

Arizona finished with one of the top defenses in the AFL last season. Legree is a hard hitting tackler who can play multiple positions. He can play cornerback, linebacker and he’s even played a little bit of safety. 

He also has an eye for the ball, and the Rattlers need interceptions which Legree can be. Legree was known for being a lockdown corner towards the end of his college career, and he was a great nickel corner at the start of his career. He will be a great addition to an already great Rattlers defense. 

Arizona will face the Portland Thunder in their season opener on April 1.

Gladiators to Host Open Player Tryout

(photo credit: clevelandgladiators.com)

The Cleveland Gladiators announced today that they will hold an open tryout for free agent players on Sunday, February 28 at D1 Sports Training in Homewood, AL.

Registration will begin at 8:30 am, with tryouts scheduled from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The entry fee to participate is $80 on the day of the tryout, and cash will be the only form of payment accepted.

As the tryout will be on a field turf surface, all participants will be required to wear turf shoes or molded-bottom cleats. No metal spiked will be permitted, and participants must also wear comfortable athletic shorts and a t-shirt.

This year's drill will not only feature the traditional combine tests, including the 40-yard dash, short shuttle, broad jump, and the L-drill, but will also include both position- and group-specific drills.

To learn more about the D1 Sports Training facility, click here.

Sharks Announce 2016 Theme Nights

(photo credit: jaxsharks.com)

The Jacksonville Sharks have always been known for providing a great fan experience, and will continue the tradition this year with their series of theme nights during the 2016 season.

After their first two games on the road, the Sharks will come home for their April 18 game against the Orlando Predators for the third annual Redneck Night. What started as a payback theme for a billboard put up by former Predators Owner Brett Bouchy has become a celebration of mullets, flannel, and overalls. Cowford's native fans will also celebrate the raising of the 2015 American Conference Championship banner as they look for their 2nd straight win against the Predators.

When the Arizona Rattlers come to town on Saturday, April 23, they'll be greeted by the Union Jack as Jacksonville hosts the first ever British Invasion night. Sharks fans will be transported back to the days of the British Rock era of the late '60s, and will also be treated to a performance by the Beatlemaniax.

The lone home game in May will see the Portland Thunder come to town on May 21. That night, the Sharks will honor all those who have and currently serve in the U.S. Armed Forces for their Military Appreciation Night. As part of the tradition, the team will accept donations to the Veteran Tickets Foundation through sales of various military-themed merchandise, as well as posters featuring the Attack dance team. Tickets are buy one, get one free for all military personnel and their families, and after the game, the Sharks will auction off special military-themed jerseys worn by the players during the game.

Jacksonville kicks off June with Superhero Night against the Philadelphia Soul on the June 4. Kids of all ages can dress up as their favorite hero (or villain, if you're so inclined) as the Sharks look for their third straight home win against the Soul, and fourth overall. At halftime, the crowd will be treated by a long-time fan favorite, as the Disc-Connected K9's will put on a show on Sea Best Field.

The June 4 game will also be Education Appreciation Night, as all school employees, including teachers and administrators, will enjoy a buy one ticket, get one free offer. For the kids, all elementary school children will get a free ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket (maximum of two free).

Two weeks later, Orlando comes back to town for Halloween in June. Dress in your October 31 best as Jacksonville will team up with The Scream Park, who will be sure to have plenty of spooky surprises in store at Veterans Memorial Arena. Fans can take a tour of the haunted house set up on the concourse, and for those who desire a night without a fright, there will be an established "no-scare" zone.

When the Cleveland Gladiators come to town on June 25, Sea Best Field may resemble the inside of the Death Star, as the Sharks will hold their second annual Star Wars night. If you can't resist the power of the Dark Side, members of the 501st Legion will be in attendance and proudly recruiting. As an extra bonus, the first 1,000 kids 12 and under in attendance will receive their own Lightsaber.

If your kids desire an opportunity to awaken the force, the Sharks will hold their Youth Football Camp the afternoon before the game. Boys and girls ages 6-16 can learn the fundamentals of the game from players and coaches.

On Saturday, July 23, it will begin to look a lot like Christmas with Christmas in July as Jacksonville plays host to the LA KISS. Always ready to get into the holiday spirit, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in attendance as they begin to prepare their naughty and nice lists, and the Jr. Attack Dance Team will take the field at halftime to spread a little holiday cheer to break up any mid-summer blues.

Finally, for those who want to break out the platform pumps with goldfish, the wide open collars, and head out to Studio 54, the Jacksonville Sharks finish their regular season against the Tampa Bay Storm. There may not be a disco ball coming from the ceiling, but you'll catch Saturday Night Fever on a Sunday evening, and the Boogie Freaks' halftime show will make sure you won't stop 'til you get enough. They'll be joining the team for the postgame autograph session, and the first 1,000 kids age 12 and under will get a retro tin lunch box to show off to their friends.

Portland Thunder Hire New Head Coach

(photo credit: csnnw.com)

The Portland Thunder announced Ron James will take over head coaching and general manager duties effective immediately in a press release last week.

It has been a turbulent off-season for Portland as the AFL board of directors took control of the franchise. There first move was to relieve the ownership group and the coaching staff which was done in a effort to give a fresh start to the organization.

However, the AFL hopes coach James can establish a winning mentality in Portland and improve on its five-win total from last year. James has worked 19 years in the AFL as a coach, coordinator, or assistant beginning in 1990 for the Albany Firebirds.

James most recently coached the Pittsburgh Power to a franchise best 15-3 in 2014 before the team ceased football operations due to financial troubles. That season, the Power defense finished third in total defense, and led the AFL in interceptions with 36.

“I am excited and anxious to get back on the sidelines,”  James said, “I feel Portland is a great community, and I see this chance as a great opportunity to help cement the team in the community.”

In their two seasons in the AFL the Thunder have finished 5-13 and near the bottom of the league in all statistical categories. Portland will open the season at home, on April 1 against the Arizona Rattlers.

KISS to Hold Concert for LA KISS Season Ticket Holders

(photo credit: vettix.org)

On opening night of the 2016 LA KISS football season, the legendary rock band KISS is going to perform an exclusive pre-game acoustic concert for all LA KISS season ticket holders. The band will not wear their famous makeup, as they will perform acoustic versions of their hit songs that have sold 100 million copies around the world. For one admission, Season Ticket Holders will be treated to a KISS concert, a pyrotechnics show, laser lights, performers and a football game all on April 2 against the Jacksonville Sharks at the Honda Center.

“We are really psyched to have KISS playing a pre-game concert for our Season Ticket Holders on Opening Day. We have great owners that are legendary performers and the fans love it when they see them at the game to cheer on their team," said LA KISS CEO Joe Windham, "We have made some big off season acquisitions and expectations for the football team in its third year are running high.

Owners Paul (Stanley) and Gene (Simmons) are set to attend every game this year and help coax the team to finish in the top of the pack to secure a home playoff game. The KISS will be upping the entertainment ante again by having KISS kick off the season in true rock fashion.”

KISS is one of the greatest rock and roll bands of all time. They have 28 gold albums and have made 40 million sales in the U.S. in their 40 year career. KISS was founded in the early 1970’s by LA KISS owners Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons. The band has achieved staggering career milestones including being inducted into the 2014 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The team will be offering the Family4Pack, which includes a Paul Stanley drawstring bag, Commemorative Pins, LA KISS lanyard, LA KISS mini football, 10% off merchandise at the LA KISS team store, and much more. To get your seat at the show make sure to visit LAKissfootball.com or you can call 714-462-KISS (5477).

Soul to Host Kiss in Rocks vs Jocks Game in Trenton

(photo credit: nj.com)

The Philadelphia Soul will host the Los Angeles Kiss on June 11 at the Sun National Bank Center in Trenton, NJ. This game will be Game 2 of the "Rocks vs Jocks" series on that day. The first game will be against the Soul and Kiss, but instead of on June 11 in Trenton, the game will be played at the Honda Center on April 30 in Anaheim, CA, home of the Kiss. 

The Kiss are playing in just their third season in the Arena Football League under owners and former rock legends Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley. They have yet to have a winning season in the AFL, but they will look to turn it around in a season where all eight teams will advance to the playoffs, regardless of record. Stanley is also looking forward to playing the Soul for the first time in New Jersey.

"We are heading into our third season as owners of an AFL team and have yet to have the opportunity to play the Philadelphia Soul on their turf," he said, "We have our first crack at them this season in LA in April, so we are looking forward to completing the 'sweep' in Trenton on June 11. We know KISS Army will be out in full force supporting our guys to victory."

The Soul will be playing in their eleventh season in the league. They are the winningest professional sports team that has the word Philadelphia in the name- they have won more games than the Eagles, Phillies, 76ers and Flyers since their inaugural season in 2004.  The team is owned by well-known ESPN NFL analyst Ron Jaworski among others.

The Soul and Kiss are two of only eight teams remaining in the league after the departure of several teams from last season, including the defending Arena Bowl champion San Jose Sabercats.  

Anyone looking to attend this game can purchase tickets can do so by going on sunbanknationalcenter.com or call the Soul sales dept. at (215) 253-4900 ext. 3 or request contact from a Soul representative by filling out a form on philadelphiasoul.com. Those looking for group tickets or "Rocks vs Jocks" special packages can call 888-879-SOUL or by going on PhiladelphiaSoul.com.

Sharks to Hold Open Tryout

(photo credit: jaxsharks.com)

The Jacksonville Sharks, coming off the 2015 season that saw them win the American Conference, announced that the team will hold an open player tryout on Saturday, Feb.13 at the Orange Park Athletic Association Field located at 1086 Fromhart Street in Orange Park.

The tryout, open to anyone over age 18 who has completed high school, and is not currently under contract with any professional football team, will begin promptly at 9 a.m. Registration will begin at 8 a.m., and participants are encouraged to bring the completed 2016 Tryout Packet (available at jaxsharks.com), and bring a cash payment of $80. No other forms of payment will be accepted.

This year’s tryout will take place on a natural grass surface, so all players are required to bring appropriate footwear. The tryout will feature a combination of drills, including the 40-yard dash, 20-yard shuttle, and other position-specific drills. Kickers will not be evaluated at this year’s tryout.

Once each player has been properly evaluated by head coach Les Moss and the Sharks coaching staff, the tryout will conclude.

For more information, and to download the 2016 Tryout Packet, visit http://www.jaxsharks.com/team/tryouts.