Pioneers Make Preparation for Prowlers
Michael Balakier
Friday April 5, 2002
“It’s a new year so that’s all water under the bridge,” said Karg. “We want to win no matter what. What they’ve done in the past doesn’t matter.”
Starting quarterback John Knust, who was 5-2 as a starter last year with the Pensacola Barracudas, also believes that Greensboro’s 0-16 road record has very little significance.
“It doesn’t matter what they’ve done,” said Knust, “that’s history and now it’s time to come out and play.”
The Prowlers come into Saturday’s game with numerous players with arenaball experience. Greensboro has had success on the defensive end in the past, ranking among the top teams in the af2 the previous year, and looks to build on that success with the addition of several offensive weapons.
However, the defensive prowess of the Prowlers should not affect Karg’s game plan.
“We’re going to run our offensive foundation and try to execute,” said Karg. “They have some experience coming back and they have the chance to be a very solid football team.”
Knust, who won the starting job over former CFL quarterback Tyler Tomich, knows his role going into Saturday’s game.
“They’re a good defensive team,” said Knust, “and I have to be aware and take care of the ball. We just can’t beat ourselves.”
A quick learner
Pioneers offensive specialist Terrence Tillman may be new to the arena game, but his football experience speaks for itself. During his senior year at Murray State, Tillman caught 44 passes for 663 yards with 5 touchdowns while averaging over 15 yards per catch. In 1999, he set an Ohio Valley Conference and school record with 14 catches for touchdowns. Pioneers quarterback John Knust commented on the OS. “He’s really talented,” said Knust. “He runs good routs and understand the game.”
The Golden Arm
After nine months of preparations, what was once a dream becomes a reality Saturday night when arena football stakes its claim in the Wyoming Valley. With only about 500 tickets remaining for the home opener, the First Union Arena is sure to be an electrifying atmosphere come kickoff Saturday night.
And to top it off, NFL great and Pioneers minority owner Johnny Unitas will be in attendance and will take part in a ceremonial coin toss.
Pioneers quarterback John Knust, who’s favorite quarterback is Unitas, commented on the chance to play in front of Unitas, who is arguably one of the greatest quarterbacks ever.
“It’s a little nerve racking because he’s my idol,” said Knust. “He went through the mix and fought a long time to make it to the NFL. Just to see him is going to be an honor. I’ll be smiling the whole night. I promise.”
Michael Balakier first discovered a knack for writing during his senior year in high school while reporting for his school`s newspaper. Aside from being an Arenaball fan, Michael is an avid Syracuse University athletics follower, which poses a problem for him, as he attends the University of Pittsburgh. Michael plans on using what he has learned through his Arenafan experience to remain as impartial as he can during future Syracuse/Pitt events. Michael also serves as co-Editor of the af2 section of Arenafan Online.
