Around the League: November 4

On Monday things finally got underway in Denver for the Colorado Crush. Head coach Mike Dailey welcomed around 30 athletes to participate in an invite-only tryout/combine workout with the team. Dailey and his newly appointed assistant coaches got their first real look at the newest batch of talent that could help Colorado in the 2009 season.

On Saturday, the New York Dragons hosted their first open tryouts of the 2009 season, giving any former high school or college football players the chance to test their mettle at the Dragons practice facility at Mitchell Field and earn a spot on the 2009 Dragons roster.

Out of the 176 participants at the tryout on Saturday, there were many talented local players there, including players from Long Island, New Jersey, Rockland County and Westchester.

Around the League: November 3

Three teams will hold open tryouts this week, with the Avengers and Rush set for Friday, November 7. The Predators will hold theirs on Saturday, November 8. The unique thing about the Rush’s tryout is that it will also be combined with an instructional camp, the first of its kind in the League.

The San Jose SaberCats on Friday announced their second open tryout of the off-season. It will be held on Sunday, December 14 at Tualatin Hills Parks & Rec. Center.

In an effort to spread their passion for football to the next generation of young athletes, the Grand Rapids Rampage recently completed the 2008 Rampage Youth Football Program presented by Wendy’s. Rampage players and members of the Rage Dance Team visited over 6,000 children across West Michigan, preaching the virtues of hard work, a healthy lifestyle and respect.

Tampabaystorm.com recently spoke with Storm starting quarterback Brett Dietz and discussed his recent trip back home and some of his off-season activities. Here’s what he had to say about the recent Storm tryout he attended:

"That was my first Tampa Bay Storm tryout. I’ve been to others, but not with the Storm. I was actually impressed with the talent that came out. I know Tampa has a lot to offer as far as talent goes. That’s probably the most talented workout I’ve ever been in. I worked out the kickers, and we had a lot that impressed me. There were some good receivers and quarterbacks as well."

The Journal News reported over the weekend the story of Joe Gambino, the construction worker from Stony Point, New York, whose goal was to make the Dragons squad at the open tryouts this past Saturday. The 19-year-old Gambino last played at North Rockland High School.

"I'm going for a shot at my dream. I'm taking every opportunity that's available into my hands to pursue my career."

Orlando Predators fullback Odie “Superman” Armstrong is known for his agility on the field and for his kind ways off the field. This off-season Armstrong became a Certified Personal Trainer and is available to help you get back in mid-season form.

Orlando Predators defensive back Kenny “The Glove” McEntyre will be out at Osceola Heritage Park on November 8^th between 2 and 4 p.m. to play catch and sign autographs with members of the Predators Dance Team.