Players needed for new area SPFL football team

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Anyone 18 or older who has a passion for football will have a new opportunity to get on the field in 2009.

Robert Davis, director of new-team development for the Semi-Pro Football League (SPFL), is looking for players to fill out a 40-man roster with athletes from Alexandria and surrounding communities. Other cities already in the league include Melrose, Willmar, Fergus Falls, Buffalo, Brainerd, Hutchinson and Marshall.

The SPFL season runs from May through July, with three to four home games on the schedule and as many road contests. Games take place on Saturdays throughout the season. Players are not paid and are expected to pay for their own equipment, which can generally be had for less than $150.

“It’s good for guys who still have an itch to play,” Davis said. “If there’s a fit person out there who runs like the wind, and he can learn to run routes, we’ll take him.”

Davis plans on holding local tryouts for anyone interested in playing. All SPFL teams are non-profit organizations and are billed as family entertainment.

“One of the league’s big rules is no swearing or temper tantrums on the sidelines,” Davis said. “Anyone who does won’t be playing in this league.”

Anyone interested in playing and attending a tryout should e-mail Davis at thespfl@thegame.com with the word “Lightning” in the subject head. He can also be reached at (320) 293-8263.

Davis is also looking for local people to be trained and serve as officials for the local team. Those interested in learning more about this paid position should contact Davis at the above e-mail address with the word “official” in the subject heading.

Tags: football, semi, pro