Atlantic City Blackjacks Assigned Former MVP Quarterback

Friday March 22, 2019

 Blackjacks Announce Randy Hippeard Assigned to Team Roster

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ - The Atlantic City Blackjacks announce that former Arena Football League MVP quarterback, Randy Hippeard, has been assigned to the team. Per League and team rules, terms are not disclosed.

“I couldn’t be happier to have Randy Hippeard join our new team in Atlantic City! Randy is the consummate professional,” said Ron James, Head Coach of the Atlantic City Blackjacks. “Having worked with him in 2017, I can attest to his work ethic and tireless devotion to his teammates. His leadership will be an integral part of the Blackjacks inaugural season in the AFL.”

Originally from Stafford, Virginia, Hippeard attended the University of Virginia’s College at Wise. There, he started every game except the final three of his freshman year. Hippeard earned Honorable Mention All-American honors in 2006, 2007, and 2008. While at college, Hippeard set 24 single-season records and finished with the fourth most passing yards in NAIA history. In 2014, he was inducted into the Virginia-Wise Highland Cavaliers Athletics Hall of Fame.

Hippeard has played for five teams in his professional career which started in 2012 with the Columbus Lions (PIFL) and was named Second Team All-PIFL for his play. After spending some time in 2013 with the Knoxville Nighthawks (PIFL), Hippeard made the jump to the Arena Football League in the same year, joining the Tampa Bay Storm.

Hippeard debuted with the Storm in 2013, throwing for 315 yards and six touchdowns in his first career start. In 2014. Hippeard had a breakout season, throwing for 4,406 yards, 93 passing touchdowns, and 16 rushing touchdowns. He then went to the Orlando Predators where he played for two years in 2015-2016. During his time in Orlando, Hippeard threw for a combined 5,963 yards and 126 passing touchdowns. He was assigned back to Tampa Bay in late October of 2016 and went on to throw for 3,506 yards and 80 touchdowns during the 2017 season. Those numbers earned him AFL MVP and First Team All-Arena honors. Hippeard also helped the Storm advance to ArenaBowl XXX where they lost to the Philadelphia Soul. After his historic season, Hippeard was assigned to the Baltimore Brigade in 2018. There, he threw for 2,901 yards and 61 touchdowns with only five interceptions. His outstanding production earned him Second Team All-Arena for his efforts.

“I just want to thank the ownership group for the opportunity to continue playing. I’m excited to be back with Coach James and Stafford,” said Randy Hippeard. “Looking forward to hitting the ground in Atlantic City and taking the first steps towards a Championship!”

“I want to make sure that Atlantic City Blackjack fans understand the magnitude of this signing. This is a quarterback driven league and Randy is one of the best quarterbacks in the League,” said George Manias, Chief Operating Officer of the Blackjacks. “This is a game changer for the Blackjacks, and we are an immediate playoff contender with this signing. In addition, Randy’s presence will attract other top-level players who have not signed, especially the wide receiver and offensive positions. Lastly, Randy is a community guy and will be active in our community as we strive to be Atlantic City’s team. This is a great day for Blackjack fans!”

For his AFL career, Hippeard has completed 1,551 passes with a 65.3% completion rate. He has thrown for 18,086 yards with 384 touchdowns and a quarterback rating of 118.38. Hippeard also boasts a rushing ability with 184 career rushes for 483 yards and 42 touchdowns. His football IQ and versatility packed with his veteran knowledge will aid to the success of the Blackjacks tremendously in their first season.

The Atlantic City Blackjacks’ inaugural campaign will begin on the road on Saturday, April 27th against the three-time League champions, Philadelphia Soul, at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia. Kickoff time will be announced at a later date. The Blackjacks will play their first ever home game at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall on Saturday, May 4 against the Columbus Destroyers. Witness history and get your tickets to the Blackjacks’ home opener by calling 609-783-9494 or by visiting ACBlackjacks.com today!

Fans can secure their season tickets for the Atlantic City Blackjacks now with a $50 deposit per seat ($75 for VIP seats) by calling 609-783-9494 or by going to ACBlackjacks.com. A team representative will contact those that have submitted a deposit within a week to select your specific seats, which will be done in order in which deposits were received.

About Atlantic City Blackjacks
The Arena Football League’s newest franchise, the Atlantic City Blackjacks will begin play in Spring 2019 at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. Season memberships for the inaugural 2019 season are on sale now. For tickets, contact the Atlantic City Blackjacks sales department at (609) 783-9494 or by going to ACBlackjacks.com. Follow the team on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @AFLBlackjacks

About the Arena Football League
The Arena Football League enters its 32nd season in 2019. Since its inception in 1987, the AFL showcases a fast-paced, exciting game to millions of fans in a myriad of markets. With the addition of two new teams in Atlantic City, N.J., and Columbus, O.H., the League totals six teams for 2019: Albany, Atlantic City, Baltimore, Columbus, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C. Each team will play 12 regular-season games in 2019. One can find the League on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook using the handle @OfficialAFL.

About Spectra
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall and the Atlantic City Convention Center are owned and funded by the New Jersey Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA). Spectra provides both Venue Management and Food Services & Hospitality to Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall and the Atlantic City Convention Center. Spectra is an industry leader in hosting and entertainment, partnering with clients to create memorable experiences for millions of visitors every year. Spectra’s unmatched blend of integrated services delivers incremental value for clients through several primary areas of expertise: Venue Management, Food Services & Hospitality, and Partnerships. Learn more at SpectraExperiences.com.