Orlando Predators host Open Tryout on Nov. 14
Thursday October 22, 2015
Do You Have What it takes to Play Pro Football?
ORLANDO – October 20, 2015 – So, you think you’re fast? Did you slip through the cracks in last spring’s NFL Draft? You say you can catch a football if it’s thrown in your area code?
If you’re answering yes to one or more of those questions, the Orlando Predators want to see your skills at their upcoming open tryouts.
The two-time defending Arena Football League South Division champions will hold open player tryouts on Saturday, November 14 at 9 a.m. at Faith Christian Academy.
Predators Head Coach Rob Keefe, General Manager of Football Operations Michael DiJulio, and newly-hired Offensive Coordinator Matthew Sauk will evaluate the athletic ability of those in attendance and how it will translate to the AFL.
The 40-yard dash, broad jump and short shuttle run will give the Predators staff measurable numbers to evaluate athletic ability. Position-specific drills will also be included, where players will be able to show their skills.
“We have identified numerous quality players at past open tryouts,” DiJulio said. “You only have to go back one year to see the kind of success someone can have from an open tryout. Defensive back Nick Taylor was in last year’s tryout. He went on to earn a starting spot and we expect him to be a great contributor again this year.”
Taylor registered 86 tackles with four interceptions, 20 pass breakups, two fumble recoveries and one forced fumble last season.
“Every year we sign players from our open tryout,” said Head Coach Rob Keefe. “The event brings out high quality talent that has slipped through the cracks and plays an integral role in building our roster. I would encourage anyone who has ever had an interest in playing professional football to come out and show their skills. We are always looking for diamonds in the rough”
Tryout participants must be prepared with appropriate workout gear and cleats/footwear upon arrival. Testing will take place on grass. There will be no contact drills. Pads and helmet are not necessary. Kickers will not be evaluated at the tryout, but all other positions will be. No prior football experience is required.
Those interested in participation can pre-register at a discounted rate of $50 using a credit card on the team’s official website. Online pre-registration ends at noon on Friday, November 13. The cost of the tryout is $75 on the day of the tryout. Only cash, credit card or money order will be accepted and all fees are non-refundable. Registration will begin at 9 a.m. All tryout participants will also receive an official Orlando Predators workout t-shirt. Tryout participants must be 18 years or older and must bring a valid form of I.D. All players are required to sign a waiver and release form on the day of the tryout prior to participation.
The tryout is completely open to the public. Fans are encouraged to attend.
PRE-REGISTER FOR OPEN TRYOUTS NOW: http://www.orlandopredators.com/contact/open-tryouts/
ABOUT THE ORLANDO PREDATORS
The 2014 and 2015 back-to-back South Division Champion Orlando Predators enter their 25th season as Central Florida’s most exciting and innovative professional sports franchise. Proud members of the Arena Football League, the Predators have achieved unprecedented success on the field. Orlando has advanced to the AFL playoffs a league-leading 22 times in their history while securing seven conference championships, including two ArenaBowl Championship victories in 1998 and 2000.