(photo credit: csnnw.com)
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.
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