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	<channel>		<title>RUWT? News - Arena Football League</title>
		<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com</link>
		<description>RUWT? News - Arena Football League</description>
		<language>en-us</language>
		<copyright>Copyright 2006-2007 areyouwatchingthis.com</copyright>
		<lastBuildDate>Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:17:25 GMT</lastBuildDate>
		<pubDate>Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:17:25 GMT</pubDate>
		<generator>RUWT?</generator>

		
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				<title><![CDATA[Bombers' Johnson returns missed FG 118 yards in win over Eskimos]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[WINNIPEG (CP) - Winnipeg's Jovon Johnson returned a missed field
goal 118 yards for a touchdown as the Blue Bombers defeated the
Edmonton Eskimos 27-17 in CFL action Friday.

It was the first time this season Winnipeg has won back-to-back
games this season but came in front of a season-low crowd of
21,965 at Canad Inns Stadium.

Edmonton (6-7) has now lost four of its last five games.

Winnipeg (5-8) got its first TD from receiver Adarius Bowman in
the second quarter and Johnson notched his early in the third.

Eskimo kicker Neil Prefontaine's 43-yard field-goal attempt
missed wide left and Johnson elected to bring it out of the end
zone, dodging would-be tacklers for the second-longest return in
team history.

The record is held by Albert Johnson III, who returned a kick
122 yards in 2000.

Bombers kicker Alexis Serna hit all three of his field-goal
attempts from 24, 32 and 41 yards. Prefontaine conceded a pair
of safeties for Winnipeg's other points.

Edmonton scored its lone TD off a three-yard pass from Ricky Ray
to Maurice Mann late in the first quarter. Bomber punter Mike
Renaud also conceded two safeties.

Prefontaine was good on field goals from 18 and 41 yards, and
played a key role in his 18-yarder.

Taking a high snap late in the second quarter, the 11-year CFL
veteran pulled the ball in and ran 31 yards up an open side of
the field until he was stopped at Winnipeg's 44-yard line.

Ray tried to march the offence into the end zone, but had to
settle for the short field goal.

Penalties hurt both teams, but the Bombers were the benefactors
late in the second quarter.

Eskimos defensive back Bobby Keyes was called for pass
interference on Bomber receiver Otis Amey in the end zone and
Winnipeg took the ball at Edmonton's one-yard line.

Bombers QB Michael Bishop rolled out on the next play and
connected with Bowman for his fourth TD of the season with 17
seconds left.

Edmonton led 7-6 after the first quarter.

Kick returner Tristan Jackson fumbled a Winnipeg punt and Bomber
linebacker Shawn Gallant recovered the ball at Edmonton's
21-yard line.

The free possession only led to Serna's 24-yard field goal.

Mann's second-quarter TD was aided by a 60-yard bolt through
traffic by running back Arkee Whitlock. The six-play, 80-yard
drive ended with Mann's three-yard catch at 12:38.

Winnipeg took a 13-10 lead into the dressing room at halftime
and scored the only points of the third quarter.

Johnson started it off with his return, Prefontaine conceded a
safety and Serna nailed his 41-yarder into a strong wind.

Winnipeg led 25-10 starting the fourth, but Edmonton responded
quickly with Prefontaine's 41-yarder into the wind at 1:03.

Prefontaine conceded his second safety three minutes to boost
the Bomber lead to 27-13.

The teams then exchanged turnovers, with Bishop and Ray being
intercepted, but neither led to points.

Ray was replaced by Jason Maas with about six minutes left in
the game.

Maas appeared to connect with Kamau Peterson for a 19-yard
reception to Winnipeg's six-yard line, but a review ruled the
catch incomplete.

Maas went to Peterson again on third and six, but the veteran
receiver couldn't pull in the pass and Edmonton turned the ball
over on downs with just over a minute to go.

Renaud conceded a pair of safeties to end the scoring.

Bishop completed 20-of-34 passes for 184 yards with one TD and
one interception. Ray was 24-of-39 for 188 yards, one TD and one
interception.

Notes: Bombers running back Fred Reid ran 16 times for 83 yards,
the fifth game in a row he hasn't gone over 100 yards rushing.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/124042-Bombers-Johnson-returns-missed-FG-118-yards-in-win-over-Eskimos</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/124042-Bombers-Johnson-returns-missed-FG-118-yards-in-win-over-Eskimos</guid>
				<pubDate>Sat, 03 Oct 2009 03:12:40 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[New arena football league launching]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[By MURRAY EVANS
Associated Press Writer

TULSA, Okla.(AP) -- Arena football isn't dead yet.

Officials from what will be known as Arena Football 1 said
Monday that they will have at least 16 teams ready to play in
2010, including four in former Arena Football League markets:
Salt Lake City, Chicago, Phoenix and Orlando, Fla. The Arizona
Rattlers and Orlando Predators played in the old AFL, but the
new league's Chicago and Salt Lake City teams did not.

The league will also have teams from the AFL offshoot
arenafootball2, as well as at least one team from another indoor
league. It will be based in Tulsa. Commissioner Jerry Kurz said
it would be a "brand-new league" not connected with the AFL or
af2.

"There has been arena football before," said Kurz, a former af2
commissioner. "It's been done well but not as good as it's going
to be done this time."

Kurz said more details of the league's business structure -
including what the players might be paid - will be announced
during the coming weeks. He said the league would use a schedule
similar to that used by the AFL and af2, with games starting in
late March or early April and running through the summer.

Dan Newman, the owner of the Bossier-Shreveport (La.)
BattleWings - who are moving from the af2 to the new league-
said Arena Football 1 will use a rule book identical to those
used by the AFL and af2.

"This is arena football," Newman said.

Arena Football 1 said its markets also will include Little Rock,
Ark.; Fresno, Calif.; Des Moines, Iowa; Jacksonville, Fla.;
Lexington, Ky.; Milwaukee; Oklahoma City; Spokane, Wash.;
Huntsville, Ala.; Kennewick, Wash.; and Tulsa.

The new league said eight more teams have submitted membership
applications. Newman said the league is negotiating with seven
other former AFL franchises, including those in Tampa and San
Jose.

Hank Stern, vice president of the San Jose SaberCats, said
Monday that while that team was "looking to bring arena football
back to San Jose," he wouldn't comment about the new league
"until things become clearer."

Kurz said other franchises will be considered for inclusion in
the league through Oct. 9.

"We'll grow as it fits us in a smooth economic model," he said.
"Other leagues in many different sports have just grown to grow
and we don't want to do that. We want to make sure we go into
markets that want us."

The old AFL canceled its 2009 season and folded in August,
ending a 22-year run for the high-scoring indoor brand of
football that helped launch the career of Super Bowl winner Kurt
Warner. Play in af2 was never disrupted, but teams ended the
season unsure of what would happen next. The AFL owned 50.1
percent of af2.

Kurz said that while previous arena football leagues were
"well-intended," their business model resulted in overspending.

"The sports business has to be like every other business," he
said. "You can't spend more than you generate in revenue."

Kurz and Newman dismissed the possibility of a new version of
the AFL forming. Newman noted the AFL canceled its 2009 season
"because of a collective bargaining agreement that they agreed
to that spiraled out of control. The financial model was broken
and finally it broke the machine. It didn't work. The AFL is not
in existence, it's in bankruptcy.

"They will not play in 2010. That precipitated the necessity to
go to the drawing board and come up with a financially viable
model that works to play arena football."

If the new league's owners are patient and market the league
correctly, there's no reason it can't succeed, even during the
current recession, said Mark Nagel, a professor who teaches
sports management at the University of South Carolina.

"If they can keep those expenses in control and have a good plan
to attract the consumer who's looking to do something that's
affordable, it might work in this economy," Nagel said.

Shy Anderson, the chief operating officer for the AFL's Dallas
Desperados - who won't play in the new league - agreed with
Nagel's assessment, saying the business model for the AFL
"wasn't solid." He said the new league "will be great for the
fans and the players who want to continue playing football."

"It is an entertainment sport," Anderson said. "It's not a pure
sport. It's football played indoors with a lesser number of
players. But there is a niche for it."]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/122998-New-arena-football-league-launching</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/122998-New-arena-football-league-launching</guid>
				<pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:35:08 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[Bishop's big game leads Bombers past woeful Argonauts]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[WINNIPEG, Manitoba (CP) - Michael Bishop threw for 312 yards and
two touchdowns as the Winnipeg Blue Bombers climbed out of the
CFL basement with a 29-24 victory over the Toronto Argonauts on
Saturday night.

The win gives Winnipeg a 4-8 record and keeps the Argos in last
place in the CFL with a 3-9 mark.

The Blue Bombers led 17-6 at halftime and 29-9 after three
quarters, but nearly squandered the advantage in a
nerve-rattling fourth.

Argos linebacker Kyle Jones sparked the comeback, blocking a
Mike Renaud punt. Andre Durie picked up the ball at Winnipeg's
three-yard line and ran in for the TD at 1:33.

Justin Medlock then hit a 78-yard single to close the gap 29-17
and Toronto quarterback Kerry Joseph, who replaced starter Cody
Pickett in the third quarter, pulled off a fake and ran in his
TD at 8:12 to make it 29-24.

Despite catching two more breaks, the Argos couldn't close the
gap any further.

First, Bombers kick returner Jovon Johnson ran a punt back 57
yards for a TD, but the score was negated by a penalty. Bishop
then completed a pass to Bowman, but he fumbled it and Toronto
linebacker Willie Pile recovered.

The Argos couldn't convert on either of their final two
possessions, with Joseph's final pass of the game knocked to the
turf with 33 seconds left.

Kickers accounted for all the points in the first quarter, with
Renaud's 56-yard single, Medlock's 27-yard field goal and pair
of Alexis Serna field goals from 53 and 32 yards. Serna's
longest this season is 54.

Medlock and Serna exchanged field goals early in the second
quarter and then the Bombers put together their best TD drive in
a long time.

Bishop confidently engineered a seven-play, 78-yard march that
ended with Fred Reid's TD catch to give Winnipeg a 17-6 lead at
12:18.

The league's leading rusher, Reid finished with 16 carries for
60 yards. In Winnipeg's three previous games, he'd been held to
a total 131 yards on 34 carries.

Medlock's 44-yard field goal with 39 seconds ended the
first-half scoring.

Toronto's first series in the third quarter ended with a fumble
by running back Jamal Robertson. Bombers linebacker Ike Charlton
recovered the ball at the Argos' 40-yard line, but Winnipeg
couldn't convert after Serna missed a 43-yard field-goal
attempt.

Toronto penalties, including roughing the passer and unnecessary
roughness, helped propel Winnipeg to its second TD.

After failing on a few cracks from the one-yard line, the
Bombers were flagged and sent back to the 11-yard line. Bishop
immediately tossed the ball to Adarius Bowman for his third TD
catch of the season and a 24-9 lead at 5:52.

After Joseph entered the game, he was intercepted by Winnipeg
defensive back Lenny Walls on his second play. However, Winnipeg
was again unable to turn the gift into any points.

Joseph was intercepted again in the first minute of the fourth
quarter, this time by safety Ian Logan. The turnover sparked
shoving and fighting on both sides. Four players were ejected
for objectionable conduct: Bombers linebacker Siddeeq Shabazz
and defensive lineman Dorian Smith and Argos offensive lineman
Rob Murphy and linebacker Zeke Moreno.

Bomber receiver Otis Amey, playing in his first CFL game, led
all receivers with 118 yards off six catches.

Joseph completed 11 of 21 passes for 123 and two interceptions.
Picketee was 13-of-22 for 98 yards.

Notes: Former Bomber QB Kenny Ploen was honoured before the
game for his selection as the CFL's most outstanding player of
the 1960s. Fans voted online between Ploen and Eastern nominee
QB Russ Jackson. ... The game also featured a halftime ceremony
for this year's Canadian Football Hall of Fame inductees:
builder Tony Anselmo and former players Alondra Johnson, Jim
Mills, Rudy Phillips and Glen Weir.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/122690-Bishops-big-game-leads-Bombers-past-woeful-Argonauts</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/122690-Bishops-big-game-leads-Bombers-past-woeful-Argonauts</guid>
				<pubDate>Sun, 27 Sep 2009 05:16:31 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[New arena football league in the works]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[By JEFF LATZKE
AP Sports Writer

OKLAHOMA CITY(AP) -- Get the scoreboard warmed up. Arena football
is making a comeback.

A news conference is planned Monday to announce the formation of
a new league called Arena Football 1 with teams from the former
AFL and arenafootball2 leagues.

"The owners meetings are Monday morning, and they're really
going to line everything out on Monday morning as far as how the
divisions go and what teams from the AFL are actually going to
join Arena Football 1 and what teams from AF2 are going to
join," said Troy Thompson, director of operations for the
Arkansas Twisters.

Representatives of the af2 teams in Oklahoma City, Arkansas, and
Spokane, Wash., all confirmed to The Associated Press on
Thursday that they intend to participate. Iowa's af2 franchise
also plans to send a representative to the meetings.

"There's still a lot that's going to be finalized over the
weekend but everyone's excited about the movement of the
league," Oklahoma City Yard Dawgz general manager Christie Cook
said.

The old AFL canceled its 2009 season before eventually folding
in August, ending a 22-year run for the high-scoring indoor
brand of football that helped launch the career of NFL MVP and
Super Bowl winner Kurt Warner. Play in af2 was never disrupted,
but teams ended the season unsure of what would happen next.

"When the AFL went bankrupt and dissolved the AFL, because the
af2 was an arm of the AFL, af2 in a sense was dissolved as well.
This is basically the af2 reforming itself, and then from there,
whatever they're going to do with the remaining AFL teams that
want to continue to play," Thompson said.

The AFL had 17 teams during the 2008 season, but the Los Angeles
and New Orleans franchises folded before the 2009 season was
canceled. There were another 25 teams in af2 last season.

"There could be an upper tier and a lower tier in Arena Football
1, almost like college football has a Division I and a Division
II," Thompson said. "Arena Football 1 could have a Division I
and a Division II. That's still kind of unclear."

Jerry Kurz, the commissioner of af2, did not immediately return
telephone calls from The Associated Press on Thursday. Senior
director of team development Ron Armour also did not return
messages.

"It's a higher level of football than the af2. It is going to be
closely akin to the AFL," said Kevin Maloney, spokesman for the
Spokane Shock - winners of this year's ArenaCup given to the af2
champions.

"It will be the best brand of arena football there is in the
world."

Cook said training camps will open in March and a 16-week season
will begin in either late March or early April, the same basic
timeframe as before for the leagues - filling the football void
opposite the NFL and college seasons.

Maloney said the business model of the new league will closely
mimic that of af2, with players all receiving the same salary.

Beyond the high-scoring games that made it onto network
television, the original Arena Football League made headlines
with owners that included Jon Bon Jovi, Mike Ditka and John
Elway. Teams were located in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago,
Philadelphia and other major markets.

---=

AP Sports Writer Noah Trister in Little Rock, Ark., and
Associated Press Writer Murray Evans in Oklahoma City
contributed to this report.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/122057-New-arena-football-league-in-the-works</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/122057-New-arena-football-league-in-the-works</guid>
				<pubDate>Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:42 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[Lions' Buono becomes CFL's all-time winningest coach]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[VANCOUVER, British Columbia (CP) - The B.C. Lions unleashed an
aggressive defence and quarterback Buck Pierce looked poised in
his first game in a month during a 23-17 victory over the
Toronto Argonauts Saturday night that made Wally Buono the CFL's
all-time winning coach.

The snarling Lions defence collected five sacks, three by
defensive end Ricky Foley, while Corey Banks snagged two
interceptions.

A 54-yard punt return by Ryan Grice-Mullen set up Sean Whyte's
go-ahead, 32-yard field goal early in the fourth quarter.

The win was the 232nd of Buono's coaching career. That moved the
Lions coach and general manager past Don Matthews for all-time
CFL victories. Matthews was at B.C. Place for the game.

The crowd of 27,515 gave Buono an ovation as the final seconds
ticked off the clock.

"It's a special night and everybody deserves the credit," an
emotional Buono told TSN at the final whistle.

"Don's a special guy and he's done a lot for coaches. He set a
standard for all of us to be very proud of, and obviously I'm
very proud of being part of this record with Don."

Running back Martell Mallett scored on a one-yard run for the
Lions (5-6), a touchdown set up by one of Banks' interceptions.
Whyte kicked five field goals.

Toronto's Jordan Younger ran 18 yards for a touchdown on a
blocked punt while running back Jamal Robertson scored on a
one-yard run.

With quarterback Jarious Jackson out for up to five weeks with a
shoulder injury, Pierce saw his first action since suffering a
concussion in B.C.'s 36-28 win over Toronto (3-8) back on Aug.
14.

He took a brutal hit to the head from Toronto defensive tackle
Kevin Huntley on the first Lions' possession, a cheap shot that
resulted in a flag. While Pierce seemed dazed by the hit he went
on to complete his next seven passes.

Pierce also wasn't afraid to run, putting his down running ran
for a couple of key first downs.

Toronto quarterback Cody Pickett had his moments but had trouble
finding open receivers and spent a lot of time trying to run
away from the Lions' pressure.

The Argos most effective weapon was Robertson who clawed for
some big gains along the ground and hauled in some key passes.

Whyte also was good on field goals of 41, 33, 32 and 15 yards.
He boomed a career-high 68-yard punt for a single.

Justin Medlock kicked a 44-yard field goal for Toronto.

Younger's touchdown late in the second quarter made the score
14-10 Lions at halftime. Toronto's James Green blocked Whyte's
punt attempt. Younger scooped up the ball and rambled into the
end-zone.

It was the first blocked punt the Lions had given up since June
2003.

Toronto took a 17-14 lead early in the third quarter when
Pickett found Chad Lucas on a 62-yard sideline pass. That ended
in Robertson's one-yard touchdown.

The Lions used two interceptions and a fumble to build a 14-0
lead.

The game started off badly for Toronto. A sack on Pickett forced
Toronto to punt. On the play the snap hit running back Bryan
Crawford as he was directing the blocking. B.C.'s Jason Arakgi
recovered, setting up a short Whyte field goal.

On the next series Banks picked off a Pickett pass. That led to
Mallett's touchdown.

In the second quarter Pickett seemed to have the Argos on the
move, until Banks picked off another pass at the goal-line and
returned it 41 yards. That resulted in another Whyte field goal.

The Argos are 1-10 in their last nine games against B.C.
Toronto's last win against the Lions was Oct. 11, 2004, at Roger
Centre. The Argonauts last win at B.C. Place Stadium was in
2002.

Notes: Turnovers resulted in 20 of the 24 points scored in the
first half. . . . B.C. swept the Argos last season, outscoring
them 79-52. . . . This season marks the fifth time in franchise
history the Lions were 1-4 after five games. . . . Defensive end
Brent Johnson started his 142nd consecutive game.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/121044-Lions-Buono-becomes-CFLs-all-time-winningest-coach</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/121044-Lions-Buono-becomes-CFLs-all-time-winningest-coach</guid>
				<pubDate>Sun, 20 Sep 2009 05:12:35 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[Eskimos erase 22-point deficit, beat Roughriders]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[Arkee Whitlock's 18-yard touchdown run with 8:17 to play helped
the Edmonton Eskimos rally from an early 22-point deficit and
defeat the Saskatchewan Roughriders 38-33 on Saturday.

Calvin McCarty rushed for two scores and Tristan Jackson
returned a punt 75 yards for a touchdown as Edmonton (2-2)
snapped a four-game losing streak in Saskatchewan (2-2) and won
for only the second time in its last 11 visits.

The Roughriders jumped out to their big lead on a scoring pass
and run by Darian Durant, a 70-yard interception return by Lance
Frazier and a single from Jamie Boreham.

McCarty's 37-yard TD run got Edmonton on the scoreboard. The
Roughriders' Luca Congi and the Eskimos' Noel Prefontaine traded
field goals as Saskatchewan led 25-10 at the break.

Edmonton tallied 17 third-quarter points to take the lead.
Prefontaine kicked a 34-yard field goal before Jackson's long
return and a 2-yard TD run by McCarty.

The Roughriders went ahead 33-30 on a 1-yard score by Chris
Szarka and Durant's 2-point conversion to Andy Fantuz. Boreham
conceded a safety to the Eskimos before Whitlock found the end
zone.

Ricky Ray was 23 of 32 for 247 yards for Edmonton. Durant was 20
of 36 with 238 yards for Saskatchewan.

The Eskimos, who ranked last in the CFL by allowing 417 yards
per game coming in, held the Roughriders to 294.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/108919-Eskimos-erase-22-point-deficit-beat-Roughriders</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/108919-Eskimos-erase-22-point-deficit-beat-Roughriders</guid>
				<pubDate>Sun, 26 Jul 2009 00:29:13 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[Calvillo's milestone night helps Montreal stay undefeated]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[Anthony Calvillo moved alone into second place on the CFL's
all-time list for touchdown passes as the Montreal Alouettes
remained the league's only unbeaten team with a 21-8 victory
over the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Thursday night.

Calvillo passed Ron Lancaster with his 334th career touchdown
pass, a 48-yarder to Jamel Richardson with 11:03 left in the
first half that got Montreal on the board. The Alouettes (4-0)
erased an early 6-0 deficit by scoring 18 points in the second
quarter.

Calvillo, who completed 30 of 39 passes for 404 yards, also
threw an 18-yard TD to Brian Bratton before Damon Duval added a
single and a field goal to give the Alouettes an 18-6 halftime
lead.

Calvillo now trails only Damon Allen, who had 394 touchdown
passes in 23 seasons.

Nick Setta staked the Tiger-Cats (2-2) to an early lead with a
41-yard field goal in the first quarter before adding a
15-yarder early in the second.

Hamilton has lost 10 straight at Montreal dating to 2002.

Kevin Glenn relieved an ineffective Quinton Porter for the
Tiger-Cats and went 12 of 19 for 198 yards. Porter completed 12
of 21 passes for 155 yards and was intercepted once.

Richardson had a team-high 91 receiving yards and five different
players had at least three receptions for Montreal, which has
averaged 38.5 points in its four victories.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/108604-Calvillos-milestone-night-helps-Montreal-stay-undefeated</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/108604-Calvillos-milestone-night-helps-Montreal-stay-undefeated</guid>
				<pubDate>Fri, 24 Jul 2009 06:03:07 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[AFL suspends operations for 2009]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[NEW YORK (Ticker) -- The Arena Football League will not be in 
business for the 2009 season.

The AFL's board of directors voted to suspend operations for 
next year, the league announced in a statement Monday.

"Every owner in the AFL is strongly committed to the League, the
game, and, most importantly, the fans," acting commissioner Ed 
Policy said.  "Owners, however, recognize that, especially in 
light of the current unprecedented economic climate, the AFL, as
a business enterprise, needs to be restructured if it is to 
continue to provide its unique brand of this affordable, 
fan-friendly sport."

The board of directors met Sunday night and voted in favor of a 
motion to cease operations.

The decision, which is pending approval of the Arena Football 
League Players Association, was made with the goal of 
"developing a long-term plan to improve its economic model."

Tampa Bay Storm coach Bill Marcum confirmed to the web site 
TBO.com that league owners voted 12-5 to shut down for 2009.

The announcement came just five days after the league issued a 
statement that it had not suspended play for the 2009 season 
following a meeting of the league's board of directors.

"We, the owners of the Arena Football League, realize we have 
the most fan-friendly, affordable and accessible sport 
anywhere," said Jon Bon Jovi, co-owner of the ArenaBowl champion
Philadelphia Soul.  "These are trying economic times.

"The revamping will ensure that the AFL continues to provide 
value to its fans and not only survives but thrives in the years
to come."

One team, the New Orleans VooDoo, has already shut down 
operations.  In addition, the league is still looking for a 
replacement for longtime commissioner David Baker, who resigned 
in July just two days before the ArenaBowl.

Jim Renacci, the co-owner of the Columbus Destroyers and vice 
chairman of the AFL Executive Committee, will head the 
restructuring process.

"Ownership truly appreciates acting commissioner Policy's steady
hand and stewardship in what has been a challenging time for the
AFL," Renacci said.  "Our owners will work in conjunction with 
Policy to develop a plan that ensures the future of the AFL."

Founded in 1987, the AFL consists of 15 teams and had been 
gaining popularity in recent years thanks to a television 
contract with ESPN.

"Our involvement with the Arena Football League was always 
geared toward promoting football on a year-round basis," said 
Jerry Jones, owner of the Dallas Desperados and Dallas Cowboys. 
"Our experience with the Desperados has accomplished those goals
and has been very positive. As we move forward we will explore 
all of the options that are available in regard to the future of
the AFL and the Desperados."

Suspending operations will not affect arenafootball2 league, 
which is the development league of the AFL.

"Today's decision by the AFL will not affect our preparation for
a successful 2009 af2 campaign," af2 president Jerry Kurz said. 
"We're excited by the addition of Milwaukee to our league family
and feel that this, our 10th anniversary season, will provide 
our fans with the most competitive and most entertaining year 
ever."]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/82538-AFL-suspends-operations-for-2009</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/82538-AFL-suspends-operations-for-2009</guid>
				<pubDate>Mon, 15 Dec 2008 21:11:57 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[AFL's 2009 season in limbo]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[DENVER (Ticker) -- The Arena Football League is having serious 
financial troubles and is expected to announce that it will 
suspend play for the 2009 season, according to a report 
Wednesday by the Rocky Mountain News.

According to the report, the league will make the announcement 
by the end of the week. Earlier this week, the Columbus Dispatch
reported that players from the Columbus Destroyers received text
message warnings the league is in trouble.

However, AFL senior vice president of communications Chris 
McCloskey issued a statement to PA SportsTicker on Wednesday in 
response to the reports.

"Despite rumors and reports to the contrary, all AFL teams are 
continuing to work towards ArenaBowl XXIII. As it has previously
stated, the AFL continues to work on long-term structural 
improvement options.

"Some of the options may impact the 2009 season. There is 
currently no timetable for an announcement of any kind. We 
remain grateful to our fans for their enthusiasm and patience."

The league also issued an official statement on Wednesday night.

"Despite rumors and reports to the contrary, the Arena Football 
League Board of Directors has not suspended the 2009 season at 
this time.  The Board met via conference call this evening.

"The Board will continue to meet regularly to examine any and 
all long-term structural improvement options for the AFL."

One team, the New Orleans VooDoo, has already shut down 
operations. In addition, the league is still looking for a 
replacement for longtime commissioner David Baker, who resigned 
in July just two days before the ArenaBowl.

Founded in 1987, the AFL consists of 15 teams and had been 
gaining popularity in recent years thanks to a television 
contract with ESPN.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/82027-AFLs-2009-season-in-limbo</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/82027-AFLs-2009-season-in-limbo</guid>
				<pubDate>Thu, 11 Dec 2008 03:29:59 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[Report: AFL to cancel 2009 season]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[DENVER (Ticker) -- The Arena Football League is having serious 
financial troubles and is expected to announce that it will 
suspend play for the 2009 season, according to a report 
Wednesday by the Rocky Mountain News.

According to the report, the league will make the announcement 
by the end of the week. Earlier this week, the Columbus Dispatch
reported that players from the Columbus Destroyers received text
message warnings the league is in trouble.

However, AFL senior vice president of communications Chris 
McCloskey issued a statement to PA SportsTicker on Wednesday in 
response to the reports.

"Despite rumors and reports to the contrary, all AFL teams are 
continuing to work towards ArenaBowl XXIII. As it has previously
stated, the AFL continues to work on long-term structural 
improvement options.

"Some of the options may impact the 2009 season. There is 
currently no timetable for an announcement of any kind. We 
remain grateful to our fans for their enthusiasm and patience."

One team, the New Orleans VooDoo, has already shut down 
operations. In addition, the league is still looking for a 
replacement for longtime commissioner David Baker, who resigned 
in July just two days before the ArenaBowl.

Founded in 1987, the AFL consists of 15 teams and had been 
gaining popularity in recent years thanks to a television 
contract with ESPN.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/81968-Report-AFL-to-cancel-2009-season</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/81968-Report-AFL-to-cancel-2009-season</guid>
				<pubDate>Wed, 10 Dec 2008 19:41:38 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[Report: AFL having financial troubles]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[NEW YORK (Ticker) -- The Arena Football League is having serious
financial woes and may be forced to temporarily suspend 
operations, according to published reports.

The Columbus Dispatch on Monday reported that two players on the
Columbus Destroyers received text-message warnings that the 
league is in trouble. This news comes just two months after New 
Orleans VooDoo owner Tom Benson, who also owns the New Orleans 
Saints, told the AFL he planned to fold his team.

AFL senior vice president of communications Chris McCloskey told
PA SportsTicker on Monday that he has been getting bombarded by 
phone calls on the league's financial health.

McCloskey responded to the reports with a prepared statement 
listing the issues that are delaying the planning of the 
upcoming season.

"The AFL is working on long-term structural improvements which 
have unfortunately delayed some important events, such as the 
release of the 2009 schedule, the dispersal draft, and the 
beginning of free agency," the statement read.

"We thank our fans for their enthusiasm for these events and ask
them to be patient a little longer while we finalize our 
long-term improvements."

The Denver Post reported that the Arena League may be forced to 
dissolve or take one-year hiatus.

McCloskey, however, claimed he was misquoted by the newspaper, 
which reported him as saying: "We will explore other options 
with our team owners," if funding doesn't come by December 19.

In addition, the league is still searching for a commissioner 
after David Baker resigned in July two days before the 
ArenaBowl.

The league began play in 1987.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/81767-Report-AFL-having-financial-troubles</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/81767-Report-AFL-having-financial-troubles</guid>
				<pubDate>Mon, 08 Dec 2008 22:24:15 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[Soul down SaberCats, claim first Arena title]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[NEW ORLEANS (Ticker) -- Matt D'Orazio and the Philadelphia Soul 
made sure history did not repeat itself in ArenaBowl XXIII.

D'Orazio threw seven touchdown passes and ran for another score 
as the Soul secured their first league title with a 59-56 
victory over the defending champion San Jose SaberCats on Sunday
afternoon.

Chris Jackson caught three scoring passes for the Soul (14-3), 
who booked their trip to the Big Easy with a 70-35 demolition of
the Cleveland Gladiators at the Wachovia Center two weeks ago.

It was the first professional championship for Philadelphia's 
beleaguered sports scene since the 76ers claimed the NBA title 
in 1983.

"All I could think about was the Philadelphia curse," Soul coach
Bret Munsey told the Philadelphia Inquirer.  "I hope this clears
the way for (76ers coach) Mo Cheeks and (Eagles coach) Andy 
Reid, and those guys.  Now we can win championships in 
Philadelphia.  I hope that takes care of everything."

To claim its first title, Philadelphia had to go through 
powerful San Jose, which made its second consecutive appearance 
in the ArenaBowl and fourth in seven seasons.  Last season, the 
SaberCats won their third league title by defeating the Columbus
Destroyers.

They could not repeat the feat Sunday thanks to D'Orazio, who 
also led the Chicago Rush to the title in 2006.  This season, he
paced the AFL in passer rating (131.3) and completion percentage
(72.4) en route to winning the league's Quarterback of the Year 
Award.

D'Orazio completed 26-of-43 passes for 302 yards in this one, 
connecting with Jackson  - the AFL Offensive Player of the Year 
- once in each of the first three quarters.  The final one was a
32-yard score to give Philadelphia an insurmountable 44-27 
advantage with 7:56 left.

Jackson, who led the league in touchdowns with 49, caught 11 
passes for 146 yards for the Soul, whose owner, rocker Bon Jovi,
led the raucous celebration as time wound down.

The euphoria also can be attributed to Philadelphia's defense, 
which kept San Jose relatively at bay in the high-scoring Arena 
league.

"We just went out there and gave it our all and played total 
team defense," said Soul defensive tackle Gabe Nyenhuis, who had
a sack and a forced fumble and was named Defensive Player of the
Game.

Mark Grieb tossed six touchdown passes for San Jose (11-6), 
which failed to become the first team since the Tampa Bay Storm 
(1995-96) and only the third club to win four ArenaBowls, 
joining Tampa Bay (five) and Detroit (four).

The SaberCats made it interesting in the final seconds, scoring 
14 points in 11 ticks to fall just short of a remarkable 
comeback within the final minute.

"We wanted to come out and play hard, but we made the game 
closer than what it should have been," Soul defensive back Eddie
Moten told the newspaper.  "But what's done is done.  We're 
champions."]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/68740-Soul-down-SaberCats-claim-first-Arena-title</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/68740-Soul-down-SaberCats-claim-first-Arena-title</guid>
				<pubDate>Mon, 28 Jul 2008 04:55:06 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[SabreCats aim for second straight Arena title]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[NEW ORLEANS (Ticker) -- The San Jose SabreCats will look to 
repeat history Sunday when they face the Philadelphia Soul in 
ArenaBowl XXII.

The defending champion SabreCats (11-5) are making their second 
consecutive appearance and fourth in seven seasons in the title 
game.  Last season, the SabreCats won their third ArenaBowl by 
defeating the Columbus Destroyers.

With a victory over the league-best Soul (13-3), the SabreCats 
will become the first team since the Tampa Bay Storm (1995-96) 
and only the third club to win four ArenaBowls, joining Tampa 
Bay (five) and Detroit (four).

"As a coaching staff, we talk about the chance of repeating as 
ArenaBowl champions a lot, but you have to treat this game as 
any other," said SabreCats coach Darren Arbet, who is looking to
go 4-0 in the league's championship game.

San Jose enters the ArenaBowl on a roll, winning eight straight 
games and 10 of its last 11 overall.  Two weeks ago, the 
SabreCats rolled to an 81-55 thrashing of the Grand Rapids 
Rampage in the American Conference Championship game.

While the SabreCats are used to the big stage, the Soul are 
making their first title game appearance.  They have been led by
a high-powered offense which leads the league in scoring at 62.0
points per game.

"We have had a special season here in Philadelphia," Soul coach 
Bret Munsey said.

Leading the way offensively for the Soul has been quarterback 
Matt D'Orazio and dynamic wide receiver Chris Jackson.

D'Orazio, who led the Chicago Rush to the title in 2006, paced 
the AFL in passer rating (131.3) and completion percentage 
(72.4) en route to winning the league's Quarterback of the Year 
Award.

In his first season in Philadelphia, Jackson earned his second 
AFL Offensive Player of the Year Award.  He led the league in 
touchdowns (49), while ranking second in receptions (140), 
receiving yards (1,719), points (294) and yards from scrimmage 
(1,717).

Philadelphia booked its trip to the Big Easy with a 70-35 
demolition of the Cleveland Gladiators at the Wachovia Center 
two weeks ago.

This is a rematch of a wild regular-season game in which the 
Soul overcame a 26-point deficit on the road for a 58-57 
victory.  D'Orazio provided the winning points with a five-yard 
touchdown run with 10 seconds remaining.

"The one thing I remember from that game is the locker room 
afterwards," Munsey said.  "When you come back in a game like 
that on the road, cross country, against a great team and 
organization, it's a special time in your locker room.

"Both teams are different personnel-wise, and everything will be
different on ArenaBowl Sunday."]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/68682-SabreCats-aim-for-second-straight-Arena-title</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/68682-SabreCats-aim-for-second-straight-Arena-title</guid>
				<pubDate>Sun, 27 Jul 2008 00:09:12 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[SabreCats aim for second straight Arena title]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[NEW ORLEANS (Ticker) -- The San Jose SabreCats will look to 
repeat history Sunday when they face the Philadelphia Soul in 
ArenaBowl XXII.

The defending champion SabreCats (11-5) are making their second 
consecutive appearance and fourth in seven seasons in the title 
game.  Last season, the SabreCats won their third ArenaBowl by 
defeating the Columbus Destroyers.

With a victory over the league-best Soul (13-3), the SabreCats 
will become the first team since the Tampa Bay Storm (1995-96) 
and only the third club to win four ArenaBowls, joining Tampa 
Bay (five) and Detroit (four).

"As a coaching staff, we talk about the chance of repeating as 
ArenaBowl champions a lot, but you have to treat this game as 
any other," said SabreCats coach Darren Arbet, who is looking to
go 4-0 in the league's championship game.

San Jose enters the ArenaBowl on a roll, winning eight straight 
games and 10 of its last 11 overall.  Two weeks ago, the 
SabreCats rolled to an 81-55 thrashing of the Grand Rapids 
Rampage in the American Conference Championship game.

While the SabreCats are used to the big stage, the Soul are 
making their first title game appearance.  They have been led by
a high-powered offense which leads the league in scoring at 62.0
points per game.

"We have had a special season here in Philadelphia," Soul coach 
Bret Munsey said.

Leading the way offensively for the Soul has been quarterback 
Matt D'Orazio and dynamic wide receiver Chris Jackson.

D'Orazio, who led the Chicago Rush to the title in 2006, paced 
the AFL in passer rating (131.3) and completion percentage 
(72.4) en route to winning the league's Quarterback of the Year 
Award.

In his first season in Philadelphia, Jackson earned his second 
AFL Offensive Player of the Year Award.  He led the league in 
touchdowns (49), while ranking second in receptions (140), 
receiving yards (1,719), points (294) and yards from scrimmage 
(1,717).

Philadelphia booked its trip to the Big Easy with a 70-35 
demolition of the Cleveland Gladiators at the Wachovia Center 
two weeks ago.

This is a rematch of a wild regular-season game in which the 
Soul overcame a 26-point deficit on the road for a 58-57 
victory.  D'Orazio provided the winning points with a five-yard 
touchdown run with 10 seconds remaining.

"The one thing I remember from that game is the locker room 
afterwards," Munsey said.  "When you come back in a game like 
that on the road, cross country, against a great team and 
organization, it's a special time in your locker room.

"Both teams are different personnel-wise, and everything will be
different on ArenaBowl Sunday."]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/68641-SabreCats-aim-for-second-straight-Arena-title</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/68641-SabreCats-aim-for-second-straight-Arena-title</guid>
				<pubDate>Sat, 26 Jul 2008 15:08:20 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[Arena Football League commissioner resigns]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[NEW YORK (Ticker) -- Two days before the league's championship 
game, Arena Football League commissioner David Baker announced 
his resignation on Friday.

Baker, 55, held the position for 12 years.  He told the league's
Board of Directors of his decision, saying it was "time."

Baker had received a contract extension last year.  This season,
the league has seen attendance, television ratings and 
merchandise sales all increase.

The Arena Bowl will be played Sunday in New Orleans, with the 
Philadelphia Soul facing the San Jose SaberCats.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/68573-Arena-Football-League-commissioner-resigns</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/68573-Arena-Football-League-commissioner-resigns</guid>
				<pubDate>Fri, 25 Jul 2008 23:20:27 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[Saturday's Arena Football League Capsules]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[By PA SportsTicker

PHILADELPHIA 70, CLEVELAND 35
-----------------------------

PHILADELPHIA (Ticker) -- Matt D'Orazio and the Philadelphia Soul
put an abrupt end to the surprising playoff run of the Cleveland
Gladiators.

D'Orazio threw for 184 yards and eight touchdowns as 
Philadelphia rolled to ArenaBowl XXII with a 70-35 victory over 
Cleveland in the National Conference championship.

It will be the first trip to the ArenaBowl for the top-seeded 
Soul, who posted the best record in the league during the 
regular season at 13-3.

The Gladiators, who managed to win just two games last season 
before moving the franchise out of Las Vegas, advanced the 
conference championship after edging the second-seeded Georgia 
Force on the road last week.

However, Cleveland ran out of answers on Saturday as D'Orazio 
tossed four touchdowns in the first half to give Philadelphia a 
35-14 lead with 4:36 remaining before halftime.

Although they managed to cut the deficit to 14 points on a 
scoring run by Marlion Jackson in the closing minutes of the 
first half, the Gladiators fell behind, 49-28, when Mike Brown 
returned a kickoff 57 yards for a touchdown.

Larry Brackins had seven catches for 92 yards and three TDs and 
Brent Holmes also scored three times for the Soul, who await 
either San Jose or Grand Rapids in the ArenaBowl in New Orleans 
on July 27.

Raymond Philyaw threw for 303 yards and four TDs but also made 
two of Cleveland's three turnovers.

SAN JOSE 81, GRAND RAPIDS 55
----------------------------

SAN JOSE, California (Ticker) -- Mark Grieb threw eight 
touchdown passes as the San Jose SaberCats advanced to Arena 
Bowl XXII with an 81-55 win over the Grand Rapids Rampage on 
Saturday.

Grieb completed 24-of-30 passes for 249 yards and Omarr Smith 
had a team playoff-record three interceptions that led to 
touchdowns as San Jose cruised to victory in the American 
Conference championship.

The defending champion SaberCats (13-5) will face the 
Philadelphia Soul, who posted a 70-35 triumph over the Cleveland
Gladiators on Saturday.  The game will be played on July 27 at 
New Orleans.

Cleannord Saintil, who had 11 receptions for 113 yards and five 
touchdowns, had two scores in the second quarter to spark a 24-7
run and help San Jose build a 38-14 advantage at the half.

Jam MacPherson completed 30-of-51 passes for 314 yards and four 
touchdowns to pace the Rampage (8-11), who saw their five-game 
winning streak and first playoff run in five years come to an 
end.

Kenny Higgins had 12 catches for a game-high 142 yards and two 
scores, while Cole Magner had 10 grabs for 103 yards.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/67405-Saturdays-Arena-Football-League-Capsules</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/67405-Saturdays-Arena-Football-League-Capsules</guid>
				<pubDate>Sat, 12 Jul 2008 23:38:35 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[Grieb helps SaberCats return to Arena Bowl]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[SAN JOSE, California (Ticker) -- Mark Grieb threw eight 
touchdown passes as the San Jose SaberCats advanced to Arena 
Bowl XXII with an 81-55 win over the Grand Rapids Rampage on 
Saturday.

Grieb completed 24-of-30 passes for 249 yards and Omarr Smith 
had a team playoff-record three interceptions that led to 
touchdowns as San Jose cruised to victory in the American 
Conference championship on Saturday.

The defending champion SaberCats (13-5) will face the 
Philadelphia Soul, who posted a 70-35 triumph over the Cleveland
Gladiators on Saturday.  The game will be played on July 27 at 
New Orleans.

Cleannord Saintil, who had 11 receptions for 113 yards and five 
touchdowns, had two scores in the second quarter to spark a 24-7
run and help San Jose build a 38-14 advantage at the half.

Jam MacPherson completed 30-of-51 passes for 314 yards and four 
touchdowns to pace the Rampage (8-11), who saw their five-game 
winning streak and first playoff run in five years come to an 
end.

Kenny Higgins had 12 catches for a game-high 142 yards and two 
scores, while Cole Magner had 10 grabs for 103 yards.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/67421-Grieb-helps-SaberCats-return-to-Arena-Bowl</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/67421-Grieb-helps-SaberCats-return-to-Arena-Bowl</guid>
				<pubDate>Sat, 12 Jul 2008 23:36:53 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[Eight TDs by D'Orazio lead Soul to first ArenaBowl]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[PHILADELPHIA (Ticker) -- Matt D'Orazio and the Philadelphia Soul
put an abrupt end to the surprising playoff run of the Cleveland
Gladiators.

D'Orazio threw for 184 yards and eight touchdowns as 
Philadelphia rolled to ArenaBowl XXII with a 70-35 victory over 
Cleveland in the National Conference championship on Saturday.

It will be the first trip to the ArenaBowl for the top-seeded 
Soul, who posted the best record in the league during the 
regular season at 13-3.

The Gladiators, who managed to win just two games last season 
before moving the franchise out of Las Vegas, advanced the 
conference championship after edging the second-seeded Georgia 
Force on the road last week.

However, Cleveland ran out of answers on Saturday as D'Orazio 
tossed four touchdowns in the first half to give Philadelphia a 
35-14 lead with 4:36 remaining before halftime.

Although they managed to cut the deficit to 14 points on a 
scoring run by Marlion Jackson in the closing minutes of the 
first half, the Gladiators fell behind, 49-28, when Mike Brown 
returned a kickoff 57 yards for a touchdown.

Larry Brackins had seven catches for 92 yards and three TDs and 
Brent Holmes also scored three times for the Soul, who await 
either San Jose or Grand Rapids in the ArenaBowl in New Orleans 
on July 27.

Raymond Philyaw threw for 303 yards and four TDs but also made 
two of Cleveland's three turnovers.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/67404-Eight-TDs-by-DOrazio-lead-Soul-to-first-ArenaBowl</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/67404-Eight-TDs-by-DOrazio-lead-Soul-to-first-ArenaBowl</guid>
				<pubDate>Sat, 12 Jul 2008 21:04:29 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[Soul QB D'Orazio named Arena MVP]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[PHILADELPHIA (Ticker) -- Quarterback Matt D'Orazio of the 
Philadelphia Soul has been named MVP of the Arena Football 
League, the Philadelphia Daily News reported Wednesday.

D'Orazio, the 2006 championship game MVP for the Chicago Rush, 
started 11 games this season after Tony Graziani was injured.  
Released by Chicago after last campaign, D'Orazio threw 72 
touchdown passes, just four interceptions and was named 
first-team all-league.

"I'm extremely humbled," D'Orazio told the newspaper.  "It was 
just about a year ago that I was having back surgery."]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/67110-Soul-QB-DOrazio-named-Arena-MVP</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/67110-Soul-QB-DOrazio-named-Arena-MVP</guid>
				<pubDate>Thu, 10 Jul 2008 00:08:42 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[Monday's Arena Football League Capsules]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[By PA SportsTicker

CLEVELAND 73, GEORGIA 70
------------------------

ATLANTA (Ticker) -- Raymond Philyaw threw eight touchdown passes
to lead the Cleveland Gladiators to a 73-70 victory over the 
Georgia Force in an Arena Football League playoff matchup on 
Monday night.

Philyaw completed 20-of-29 passes for 295 yards and eight TDs 
for Cleveland, which advances to play Philadelphia in the 
National Conference championship game Saturday.  The winner will
play in the Arena Bowl in New Orleans on July 27.

Philyaw threw three scoring passes apiece to Otis Amey and 
Robert Redd.  Amey finished with six receptions for 130 yards.

Chris Greisen was 29-for-39 for 343 yards and eight TD passes 
for the Force.

Troy Bergeron was Greisen's favorite target as he finished with 
14 receptions for 178 yards and four touchdowns. Tiger Jones had
nine catches for 83 yards and four TDs for Georgia.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[afl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/66943-Mondays-Arena-Football-League-Capsules</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/afl/news/66943-Mondays-Arena-Football-League-Capsules</guid>
				<pubDate>Tue, 08 Jul 2008 05:09:00 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
	
			
	</channel>
</rss>









