New semi-pro football team looking for players

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The Alexandria Lightning of the Semi Pro Football League (SPFL) is once again looking for athletes to fill out its roster for the upcoming season.

The Lightning still have several spots open on their 40-man roster. Those holes need to be filled by athletes in Alexandria and the surrounding area. Other cities and counties represented in the league are Melrose, Brainerd, Monticello, Chisago Lakes and Hennepin County.

The league’s season runs from May through July with teams playing 8-10 games a season. Half of those games will be played at home in Alexandria at Citizens Field.

There will not be a huge time commitment required by the players. The team will practice once a week.

Players are not paid and are expected to pay for their own equipment and uniforms. League spokesman Robert Davis said those uniforms can be had for less than $180.

The league is good for guys who are in decent shape and still have an itch to play the game. Because of time restraints, combines are not going to be held this year.

“If you come out, there’s a very good chance you’ll make the team,” Davis said.

Offensive tackle and Avon native Brock Zierden will play in the league this summer after coming off a stint in the Arena Football League. Former Big 10 defensive end Wesley Riddick is slated to play for Alexandria this summer.

One does not have to be a former collegiate star to make the team, though.

“If you are in reasonably good shape and want to play, you will get a look,” Davis said.

The local team also plans on giving back to the community in a variety of ways. The Lightning plan to host football camps and participate in local functions such as parades and food drives. All SPFL teams are non-profit organizations.

The league prides itself on being family-friendly entertainment. Swearing and on-field tirades will not be tolerated by the league. Admission to games will be no more than $5 per person.

If interested in playing for the Lightning, e-mail thesemipros@minnesota.usa.com with “SPFL AL” in the subject heading. Those interested will then receive an application and more information.

Tags: alexandria sports, sports, semi, pro, football, league, lightning