LA KISS sign AFL Hall of Famer Clevan Thomas

(photo credit: noledout.com)

One day before their 2016 season kicks off, the LA KISS made one more acquisition to finish off their revitalized roster. The KISS were assigned AFL Hall of Famer, defensive back Clevan Thomas last night. 

Thomas was most recently on the San Jose Sabercats in 2015 when they won the 2015 Arena Bowl Championship. 

“We are extremely excited to have a player of Clevan Thomas’ caliber join the LA KISS, said KISS coach Omarr Smith. To have a veteran like Thomas will be invaluable this upcoming season not only on the field, but off the field as well. I have seen his leadership first-hand for many years and he will leave a lasting impression on this organization for years to come.” 

Smith was an assistant coach with the Sabercats last season. Thomas, the 11-year AFL veteran, attended college at Florida State. Thomas’ career started in 2002 when he was named AFL Defensive Player of the Year and AFL Rookie of the Year. 

Thomas would win AFL Defensive Player of the Year two more times during in his career (2003, 2013). Thomas took home All-Arena Honors in 2002, 2003, 2007 and 2013. Thomas, a four time Arena Bowl champion, is second all-time in league history with 78 interceptions. 

The 5’10, 195 pound defensive back was inducted into the AFL Hall of Fame in 2012. Thomas is the perfect final touch to an already drastically improved LA KISS squad. 

What he most importantly brings is a championship pedigree, which is something this young KISS team needs. 

The LA KISS will kick off their 2016 season on Saturday night against the Jacksonville Sharks at the Honda Center in Anaheim, CA.