Rebels forge ahead with Spring Games

Both the Intermediate and Jr. Pros have begun practice with a target date of May 31st marked on all calenders. That date marks our first contests, as both the Intros and Jr. Pros visit the Philly Hawks at Temple University in Philadelphia. Game times are set for 2pm for the Intros and 5pm for the Jr. Pros @ Temple. New Intro Head Coach JT Tisdale knows his squad, although young, will be ready. “They may be a bit more experienced, but we will be ready to play”. The Rebels have new additions to the staff on all levels in 2008. On the Pee Wee level, Coach “Tiger” is joined by veteran coach Frank Rue, Sr. Coach Rue’s son – Frank Jr., was the very first Bronx Rebels Quarterback in 1989. Rue Sr. brings a level of maturity and discipline to the Pee Wee game, and with the strong leadership of Coach “Tiger” , the Pee Wees should return to the championship round of play. “I heard the Pee Wees went to the title game two years ago, but lost – this time, we’re gonna take it!! Other teams better be on their guard, because there are a quite a few players we have this year – we’re gonna shock a few people”. Wow – the coach seems to be game ready. Good luck coach.

We also have two new additions on the Intermediate staff. Coach Ray Baxter’s shake up of the Intermediate team was not complete, until he brought in veteran Offensive Coordinator Dennis O’Neal and assistant Coach Lou Roman. Coach O’Neal and Coach Lou were with the Harlem Knights in 2007, but are now bringing the same positive energy to the Rebel Intros. “We needed a change on that level – we were not scoring points, and not stopping people – that team must win now” says Baxter. O’Neal also coaches with Cardinal Hayes as an Offensive Assistant Coach. “I like the atmosphere the Rebels have, and Ray and I have been friends for years. It’s time to bring a championship home” said O’Neal. Coach Lou will assist on both sides of the ball, and also help with the Pee Wee team when he can.

The winning tandem of Baxter and Pryor will continue on the Jr. Pro level, but in addition to Intro and Pee Wee coaching help, Baxter intends to add staff to this level as well. “We have a secret weapon we are adding to the staff in July and August, if all goes well, that addition should finally push us to the championship level in the ECFL. I am tired of being the bridesmaid – time to be the bride, and get that ring.”

Baxter has credited the success of the Jr. Pro team the past several years to chemistry between him and Coach Pryor, and the Wing – T. “When our offense is on – it is very difficult to stop. We call it football’s version of the basketball fast break, you may see it coming, but if you step the wrong way, the ball will go right by you.” We are going to be a very young team this year, but we will try to be just as competitive as always.

Good Luck Rebels!!!