Belcher's back

Tuesday October 16, 2007

Shock also add former Pac-10 star Ware and SWAC star Williams

October 16, 2007 – The Spokane Shock announced today that OL Ryan Belcher, 6-4 328, has re-signed with the Shock for the 2008 season. Additionally, the Shock announced that DL Derron Ware, 6-4 217, and FB Ken Williams, 5-10 286, have been added to their 2008 roster.

Belcher is the fourth member of the 2007 Shock to re-sign with the team for the 2008 season. Belcher was acquired by the Shock late last season and helped solidify the offensive line, according to Head Coach Adam Shackleford.

“Ryan really helped improve our pass protection last season,” Shackleford said. “He’s been working hard in the off-season and we expect him to make some significant contributions to our offensive line as a veteran.”

Belcher is also excited to return to Spokane. “I wanted to come back to Spokane because I love the city and the players and coaching staff were excellent,” Belcher said.  “I think that Spokane presents the best opportunities to move up, while playing with the best talent.”

Ware, the cousin Dallas Cowboys LB DeMarcus Ware, finished his collegiate career at Arizona State University in 2006. During his senior year at ASU, Ware played in all 13 games and accumulated 34 tackles (seven tackles for a loss) with four sacks. That season he was also named the team’s most improved defensive player. Prior to his two years at Arizona State, Ware played at Michigan State University where he collected 28 career tackles.

“Derron is a player who has similar athletic ability to Kelvin Morris; he’s tall, he’s quick and he’s strong,” Shackleford said. “He’s played in the PAC-10 which is certainly very competitive football and so we think he can do a great job for us.”

Williams earned a reputation as one of the top blocking backs in the country, while at Alcorn State University. In 2005, he tallied career-highs in rushing attempts (34) and yardage (155) and was named 2nd Team ALL-SWAC. That same season he paved the way for tailback Jeremy McCoy to gain over 1,100 yards rushing.  Despite being injured his senior season, Williams still managed to play in seven games, generating 79 all-purpose yards.

“With his size and his strength he’s going to be able to help us shore up our protection for next year,” Shackleford said.