Chicago Slaughter

A Q/A with Steve McMichael: Coach, part owner of the Chicago Slaughter

2009-06-25T07:09:00.000-07:00

Those of us who have fond memories of Steve McMichael ripping apart just about everything as a player might find it difficult to imagine him as a coach and part-owner of a football team. After all, this is "Mongo" we're talking about. However, in the short time I was around him as a reporter, I always suspected that Mr. McMichael was much smarter than he let on.

He definitely has been smart enough to milk the "Mongo" routine for a lot of cash in his post-playing days.Mr. McMichael is back in the spotlight again as coach and part-owner of the Chicago Slaughter of the Continental Indoor Football League.

The Slaughter are 13-0 and will meet Ft. Wayne for the league championship Saturday at the Sears Centre in Hoffman Estates.Mr. McMichael is trying to generate publicity for the team, calling himself the "lead carnival barker." I spoke to him for a few minutes Wednesday.

How does feel to be both a coach and a part-owner of the team?

Mr. McMichael: Winning and losing is of paramount importance to me. The more you win, the larger your fan base becomes. That means more sales. I saw Mike Ditka not long ago. I apologized to him. I said I didn't understand all that was involved in being a head coach. Putting out fires. Dealing with the business end. You'd rather worry only about putting out a precise product on the field, but the business end is a necessary evil. You've got to do it.

How is business?

This is our third year. The first two years we lost money. This year, we're going to break even. We average about 5,000 people per game. We've got some guys with some savvy business minds involved in this thing. They know what they're doing. When you consider the other league (the Arena Football League) was losing a bunch of money, I think we're doing well. We're the best-kept secret around Chicago.

What are you selling?

We're trying to be as fan friendly as possible. We're the antithesis of Soldier Field. Our fans are right on the boards, next to the players. We let people keep footballs that go in the stands. Afterwards, we sign autographs. Where else in pro sports do the fans get to go on the field to celebrate with the players after a victory?

How much do the players earn?

They make $300 per game. I'm proud of who these kids are. They all have regular jobs and then come to practice at night. They're not some guaranteed-money pampered-athlete that you'll see in the NFL. To me, they are the role models. They are playing because they love it.It's football, baby. These guys make the same plays you'll see in the NFL.Your best Bears team went 18-1.

How does it feel to be on the verge of having an undefeated season?

People don't believe me when I say it because I played on a Super Bowl team, but this is the most fun I have had in my whole life. When I was playing, it was the grind. I had blinders on. Now I'm on the sidelines like a proud father saying, 'That's my boy.' That's the fun part of it for me.

Starting The Week of the CHAMPIONSHIP

2009-06-22T12:27:00.000-07:00

Getting ready for this week is going to be amazing. The Slaughter fans have been waiting for this, not only a perfect season but a championship in the bag. We have been looking for this victory and with the players that we already have as well as the new additions, this year is the best year yet!

This week there should be a celebration, not many teams can make it 13-0 and now it is time to make it 14-0 this week

With the help of our players such as Russ Michna, Bobby Sippio, Brandon Eaton, Darian Tate and all of the other new record breakers, this game is destined to be a site to see. We have to win this game at home as well so if that isnt enough of a motive, I dont know what is.

Speaking as a slaughter fan, I cannot wait to see what they are able to do on saturday. They only have their own expectations to beat because fans already see all of these men as champions, So congratulations to the Chicago Slaughter on making it thus far, Cant wait to see you saturday at the Sears Center

The Addition of Russ Michna to the Slaughter

2009-06-22T12:05:00.000-07:00

The Chicago Slaughter Professional Football Team and member of the Continental Indoor Football League, announced today that they have signed former Chicago Rush Quarterback, Russ Michna, to a contractual agreement for the 2009 season. Michna, a standout player who played at Western Illinois University from 2000-2003, compiled a record of 20-6, throwing for a total of 6,434 yards which ranks second in Western Illinois history. Michna also set a school record in 2003 in passing yards (3,160) and total offense (3,327). He was named Gateway Player of the Year, First team All-Gateway Conference and Co-SIDA Academic All-District Team in 2002 and 2003. He was also the only player to win back-to-back Offensive Player of the Year awards.

Michna was the Quarterback for the Chicago Rush (Arena Football League) in 2008 after assuming the starting position from starter, Sherdrick Bonner, who suffered an injury in week seven. Michna took advantage of his opportunity. In the 11 weeks he started, he led the Rush by tossing 57 touchdown passes with only 7 picks and compiled an 8-3 record as a starter. He also threw for 2,721 yards with a Quarterback Rating of 122.9, which placed him fourth in the AFL. In addition, he helped his team by rushing for 98 yards and scoring 14 touchdowns on the ground. In all, Michna was responsible for 71 touchdowns and 2,819 yards.

Prior to joining the Chicago Rush, Michna spent a season with the 2004 St. Louis Rams as well as, 2 seasons with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the CFL in 2005 and 2006. A graduate of Conant High School in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, he was a letterman in football, basketball and baseball. As part of the football team, he was an All-State selection in his senior year in 1999.
"We are extremely honored with having a person of Russ’ caliber and athletic accomplishments join the Chicago Slaughter" said Slaughter General Manager, Alan Perkins. "In addition to his positive attitude and on-field leadership abilities, we also are looking forward to Russ’ contributions off the field and him working with the local communities" he added.

"I feel fortunate to have found a new home and to continue to play in my hometown" said Michna. "I am certainly looking forward to my new role with the Chicago Slaughter and working with Coach McMichael and the other NFL Legends Coaches as well. I hope to bring a championship home to Chicago this season" he added. Michna is a life long Chicago-land resident and resides in the area during the off-season. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and an MBA from Western Illinois University as well.In addition to Michna's desire to contribute to the Slaughters' success on the field, he will also work with the Chicago Slaughter in a number of Community Relations campaigns and will help in heading up the new Chicago Slaughter Reading Program with the Score Learning Centers in local area schools and libraries.

On January 17th from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the Chicago Slaughter will be hosting their second and final Free Agent Tryout Camp at the Finish Strong Sports Complex located at 551 W. Roosevelt Road in West Chicago. This camp is open to any football player with little or extensive experience and provides an opportunity to become a professional football player. Several of the NFL Coaching Legends will be on hand to evaluate the participants including former Chicago Bears Star Wide Receiver, Marcus Robinson, former Chicago Bears Line Backer, Mickey Pruitt and other Slaughter coaches. Russ Michna will also be on hand to meet and greet fans and sign autographs. For tryout information and to register, please call the Chicago Slaughter office at 847-310-3190 or register online at chicagoslaughter.com.

The 2009 season opens at the Sears Centre Arena and individual, season and group tickets are now on sale. The Slaughter are also offering all groups a special discount for the March 6th game on selected seats. Information on the Slaughters’ One Cent Advertising promotional opportunities in our 50,000 Game Day Programs is now available. For more information, please contact Gerry Clarke the Slaughter at 847-310-3190 or visit our website at chicagoslaughter.com

(Me with the new Punky QB such a cutie!!)

Sippio Hoping for Another Championship

2009-06-22T09:20:00.000-07:00

In 2006, wide receiver Bobby Sippio joined the Chicago Rush mid-season while the Rush were struggling at 4-8 and in the middle of a 1-6 stretch. With the addition of Sippio, the Rush finished the regular season winning three of their last four games, ripped off four playoff victories, and won Arena Bowl XX to earn the franchise’s first championship.The 2009 season resembled a somewhat similar situation for Sippio and the Chicago Slaughter. However, the Slaughter was not in dire straits, like the Rush had been, in jeopardy of missing the playoffs.

When he inked a deal with the Slaughter, Chicago was 9-0 and had already clinched a playoff spot. Yet, Sippio was thankful for the opportunity to play indoor football once again in the city of Chicago, even if he wasn’t able to play the full season with the team.“I had the opportunity to get back into the groove of things and play football,” Sippio said. “I had the opportunity to go back and play for the city of Chicago, and I had a few friends, members of the Rush, that played [for the Slaughter].“That helped me make my decisions easier, and it was great chance to keep working and get back into football shape.”

In Sippio’s first game with his new team, he grabbed 10 passes for 144 yards with six touchdowns as the Slaughter improved to 10-0. He added two more scores in the regular season finale against the Wisconsin Wolfpack in Madison.Coming to the Slaughter, Sippio joined many of his former teammates from the Rush, including QB Russ Michna, LB DeJuan Alfonzo, DL Khreem Smith, and DB Dennison Robinson.

“It helped a lot with those guys being on the team,” Sippio said. “We already have that camaraderie and it’s a lot easier to get back together and it’s made things a lot of fun. It’s kind of like a homecoming, to be back together and having fun like we used to.”Sippio comes with a very impressive football resume.

In his inaugural season with the Chicago Rush, Sippio caught 38 passes for 654 yards with 17 touchdowns. In 2007, playing his first full season for the Rush, he amassed 1,742 yards with 53 scores on 125 receptions. Sippio also spent 2007 as a member of the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs, where he appeared in nine games.The Western Kentucky alum said that his teammates on the 2006 Rush roster know what it takes to win another indoor football championship in Chicago. “It makes us play harder and is making it a lot easier,” Sippio said.

“We know how hard it is to win a championship, but we know since we already have one under our belt. When we play like a team it just makes it much easier for all of us.”

12-0 Perfect Regular Season

2009-06-22T09:17:00.000-07:00

Before Tuesday night's practice even started, before the team's weekend playoff game, the Chicago Slaughter players seemed pretty loose and relaxed as they waited for things to kick off that evening.

The tone dramatically shifted once Head Coach Steve McMichael got on the field.McMichael gathered his players at mid-field and explained the frustration he felt when the 1985 Chicago Bears, a team that McMichael was a member, lost a heartbreaking game to the Miami Dolphins to lose their chance at a perfect season. He wanted to make sure that every player in attendance knew the feeling that followed after that tough defeat."It's a shame after you dump a game when really the team that beats you wasn't as good as you are," McMichael said.

"All you think is 'There goes history. There goes your sense of accomplishing something that is rare.' And it haunts you for the rest of your life."After McMichael's pep talk, the team started their preparations as they get ready to face the Wisconsin Wolfpack in the first round of playoffs this weekend. Although the Slaughter has beaten the Wolfpack three times already, the players know that they can't take this team for granted. "You can never take a team for granted," said LB DeJuan Alfonzo.

"We've played this team three times. We struggled with them once, we beat them pretty badly the next time, and the last time we didn't play great on defense and just played ok on offense. We've got to take a good look from the last time we played them and correct the mistakes we made in that game. We don't want to take this game for granted just because we beat them three times."RB Nick Cosentino, who has competed in several playoff games, didn't see much difference in his preparation for the team's upcoming tilt with Wisconsin."Nothing really changes," Cosentino said.

"We've got to be focused and come in here today and work hard tonight to get ready for this week. (The team is) focused and pretty much ready to go. The attitude is to finish this thing out one week at a time, so this week is our concern."Despite being cautious in preparing for the Wolfpack, the team seems to know what it needs to do in order to win on Saturday."The guys know that it's the playoffs right now, but it's just another game," said K Chris Nendick. "You've got to take it one game at a time, one step at a time, and if we don't win on Saturday, we're not playing next week (for the championship). You just play one game at a time, keep doing what we've been doing all year, and pieces will fall into place.

"The 2009 Chicago Slaughter (12-0) just finished their first undefeated regular season schedule, and will host a Playoff game on June 20th at the Sears Centre against the Wisconsin Wolfpack. Kickoff will be at 7:05p.m. Saturday will be Make-A-Wish night, as the Slaughter joins forces with the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Illinois and Jett's Heating & Air to raise funds in order to grant a child's wish. Several Chicago Bears - including Mark Anderson, Marcus Harrison, Eric Peterman and Ervin Baldwin- will be on hand to sign autographs after the game.

10-0!!!

2009-06-22T09:16:00.000-07:00

The Chicago Slaughter (10-0) kept their undefeated season intact as they defeated the Wisconsin Wolfpack (5-4) 67-22 on Saturday night in front of 5,518 fans. QB Russ Michna continued to break league records, as he set three new records and broke an old one he set earlier this season.

The victory allowed the Slaughter to clinch the top spot in the CIFL Western Division, setting up the first playoff game for June 20th at the Sears Centre Arena.The team scored first in the game and never looked back. Michna hooked up early and often with recently acquired WR, Bobby Sippio, as the two hooked up for six touchdowns including the first score of the game.

Sippio finished with ten catches for 144 yards, while Michna finished 22-27 for 342 yards and eight touchdowns. WR Dontrell Jackson added eight receptions for 151 yards and a touchdown to keep the team comfortably in front for the entire game. "It's just great to be here and I'm thrilled to be playing again," said Sippio.

"I would have gone anywhere my former teammates were playing. I just can't say enough about them. We've always and the attitude that we'd do anything to play together. Anywhere, anytime. Name the place and we'll be there-even a sandlot. Now I think this team is unstoppable.

"We've got great chemistry (with his former Rush teammates now on the Slaughter) so I didn't hesitate to say yes. What a wonderful opportunity for me to be able to come back and be able to play with them again."Michna set records for most touchdowns thrown in a year (63), most passing yards in a season (2453), and most completions in a season (188). Michna’s 342 yards passing also broke his own record for most passing yards in a game.

"I've been saying all season, each time we go out there we need to focus on getting better," said Michna. "If you contrast the first game we played against Madison and this last game, you'll understand what I mean. We were careless that first time, not getting things done. It was better this time around.

"Defensively, DB Brandon Fields led the team with six tackles while DB Sidney Lewis broke up a pass and added four tackles."The goal tonight was to start out fast and shut them down early," said LB DeJuan Alfonzo. "But even so, they came back on us a few times and did score touchdowns on our defense. But in the end, we finally got thing under control and were able to get the win. It feels very good to be 10-0"

Bobby Sippio!!

2009-06-22T09:15:00.000-07:00

The Chicago Slaughter, of the Continental Indoor Football League, has signed Bobby Sippio, formerly with the Chicago Rush and the Kansas City Chiefs. His signing helps strengthen the Slaughters' receiving corps in the wake of the injury to WR Donovan Morgan, who was leading the CIFL in most major WR statistical categories. This brings the number of former Rush players to eight, as he joins Morgan, QB Russ Michna, RB Nick Cosentino, WR Reggie Gray, DL Khreem Smith, LB DeJuan Alfonzo, and DB Dennison Robinson.

"We are very proud to have a player of Bobby's caliber on board," said Slaughter General Manager Alan Perkins. "In 2006, Bobby came in and helped the Chicago Rush win an AFL championship and we are hoping for the same result, here in 2009 for the Slaughter."The 6'3", 215-pound WR from Western Kentucky University was a member of the Rush from 2006-2007, after being picked up from the Tampa Bay Storm.

His best season came during the 2007 campaign, as he led the AFL in touchdowns with 53, to go with 125 receptions for 1739 yards. He was also a member of the Kansas City Chiefs organization during the 2007 season."I'm very happy to be returning to Chicago,” said Sippio.

“Once again, I get to play in front of the great Chicago fans. I hope to help the Slaughter stay on top and win a Championship."

The next home game for the Slaughter is this Saturday, May 16th, against the Wisconsin Wolfpack at the Sears Centre. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:05pm. The team will honor Head Coach Steve McMichael after the game for his induction into the National Football Foundation's College Hall of Fame. It will also be Fan Appreciation Night, as the team will give away a trip to Puerto Vallarta, sponsored by World Wide Traveler, along with many other great prizes.

Clinched the Playoffs

2009-06-22T09:14:00.000-07:00

The Chicago Slaughter (9-0), of the Continental Indoor Football League, clinched a playoff spot with a 77-47 win tonight over the Rock River Raptors. QB Russ Michna's nine touchdowns thrown in the game broke a record for most passing touchdowns in a single CIFL game. The nine passing touchdowns also tied a team record for most aerial touchdowns thrown in a single game.Although the Raptors came out strong initially with a quick first score, the Slaughter tied the game with 8:28 left in the first quarter and never looked back.

“What I liked most about today was that we took care of the ball," said Michna. "We didn't have any turnovers. We scored on every possession. Week after week that's what we've been trying to get to.” Michna's record setting night surpassed a record shared by Damon Dowdell (Saginaw) and Matt Cottengim (Rochester) who each threw eight touchdowns.

The Slaughter tied the Rochester Raiders, who threw for nine touchdowns May 7, 2006.Strong play was evident on both sides of the ball for the Slaughter with touchdowns by Michna, LB DeJuan Alfonzo, WR Reggie Gray, WR Dontrell Jackson and OL JD Sheldon. Gray suffered a sprained ankle during the second quarter and did not return to the game.

The next home game for the Slaughter will be Saturday, May 16, against the Wisconsin Wolfpack at the Sears Centre Arena at 7:05pm. The Slaughter will honor Head Coach Steve McMichael, who was recently inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame

Coach McMichael Honored

2009-06-22T09:13:00.000-07:00

The Chicago Slaughter of the Continental Indoor Football Legaue, is proud to announce that the team’s head coach, Steve McMichael, was inducted into the National Football Foundation's College Hall of Fame. He becomes the Texas Longhorns' 15th player and 17th overall inductee into the Hall of Fame. McMichael will be honored by the Slaughter before their May 16th home game against the Wisconsin Wolfpack."I will never be able to thank The University of Texas enough for what it did for me during that time,"

McMichael recalled from his home in Chicago, where he was a star in the NFL for the Bears and is now the head coach of the arena league Chicago Slaughter. "My `old man' put me on the road, but if it hadn't have been for Texas, I have no idea where I would be right now."McMichael joins a class that includes, among others, Tim Brown of Notre Dame, Major Harris of West Virginia, Chris Spielman of Ohio State, Curt Warner of Penn State, Gino Torretta of Miami and Grant Wistrom of Nebraska.His senior year in 1979, as part of perhaps the best defense in Texas history (it allowed an average of only nine points per game), McMichael personally dominated the 1978 Heisman Trophy winner Billy Sims in the Longhorns' 16-7 victory over the Sooners.

Sims gained only 73 yards on 20 carries, and McMichael registered 13 tackles--nine against the running game.McMichael totaled 133 tackles during his senior season, and posted 369 tackles, 30 sacks, 40 tackles behind the line, 99 quarterback pressures and 11 caused fumbles during his career as a Longhorn.A member of the Longhorn Hall of Honor, the Texas High School Sports Hall of Fame and the Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame, McMichael is involved in numerous charities, most notably the Fisher House Foundation and other organizations that support wounded soldiers and their families.

McMichael becomes the second member of his Longhorn era to be inducted into the NFF Hall of Fame, joining safety Johnnie Johnson, who was enshrined in 2007. Upon his induction during the December festivities in New York, Johnson allowed that he would have made a lot more tackles, had McMichael not made them all before they could get into the secondary."I can tell you this," McMichael said Wednesday. "I will be wearing orange. There is no way to describe how much this means, or how thankful I am to all of the people who helped me at Texas. All I can say is, `hook `em!'"

The Addition of D-Rob

2009-06-22T09:08:00.000-07:00

The Chicago Slaughter of the Continental Indoor Football League, is proud to announce the signing of Dennison Robinson, the 2008 Arena Football League Defensive Player of the Year. A native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Robinson, 30, will anchor the Slaughter defense during the 2009 season after playing the past three seasons with the Chicago Rush. Robinson will be reunited with Rush teammate DeJuan Alfonzo, who also signed with the Slaughter this season. "The Slaughter is extremely proud to have signed a player like Dennison Robinson," said Slaughter General Manager, Alan Perkins. "It takes a special player to accomplish the things that Dennison did in the AFL and I am confident he will be an impact player."

The 6'0", 195-pound Robinson led the AFL with 13 interceptions during the 2008 season, returning two of them for touchdowns. He also led the Rush in tackles with 102 during the 2007 season which is an all-time team record. Robinson's AFL career also includes stints with the Las Vegas Gladiators (2002-2004) and the Grand Rapids Rampage (2005). He was named to the AFL all-rookie team in 2002, and was named the Las Vegas team Ironman of the Year twice while with the Gladiators.

Prior to joining the AFL, Robinson played one year in the AFL2, as he played in 16 games for the Quad Cities Steamwheelers in 2001. Robinson played effectively on both sides of the ball while in Quad Cities, scoring 15 touchdowns on offense while picking off 8 passes on defense.

Big Play Reggie Gray

2009-06-22T09:07:00.000-07:00

The Chicago Slaughter of the Continental Indoor Football League, is proud to announce the signing of Reggie "Big Play" Gray, who previously was a member of the Chicago Rush (AFL). A native of Chicago and graduate of Morgan Park High School, Gray, 24, is being counted on to provide some big plays as one of the team's starting wide receivers in the 2009 season. Gray is now reunited with his former college teammate from Western Illinois University, Russ Michna, who signed a contract last week with the Slaughter after a successful 2008 season with the Chicago Rush.

"We are very excited to have Reggie on board," said Alan Perkins, General Manager for the Chicago Slaughter. "He is an incredible athlete and will be a perfect fit for the Slaughter. Reggie's experience with the Chicago Rush in 2008 will help him and should give him some chemistry with some of the other Rush players we have signed or are in the process of signing."

The 5'10", 175-pound Gray was a member of the Rush's practice squad for the 2008 season. Upon the completion of the Rush season, he competed in the final two games of the AFL2 season with the Peoria Pirates. In those two games, he racked up 189 yards receiving on 18 catches to go along with two touchdowns.

During the 2007 season, Gray played for the Bloomington Thunder of the United Indoor Football League where he placed in the top 5 of every statistical category in the league. In the 17 games he started, Gray hauled in 78 catches for 839 yards and 15 touchdowns. He also returned 24 kicks for 281 yards.

Gray is a graduate of Western Illinois University, where he broke records in every wide receiver category in school history, as well as a few kick return records. He still is a record holder in several categories to this date. Most notably, Gray is the WIU current all-time Leading receiver in receptions and yardage. Gray finished his career at Western Illinois as the school's all-time leading receiver with 2,372 yards on 137 receptions.

"It's a honor to continue to play professional football, and it's a double honor to be able to continue my career in the place where I was born and raised in the city of Chicago," said Gray. "The Slaughter is a great organization and since I am a Chicago native as well a Chicago fan, it would do me great pleasure to help bring a title to the best City in the world."

The Slaughter will host their second and final Free Agent Tryout Camp at the Finish Strong Sports Complex in West Chicago on Saturday, January 17th from 9:00 AM until 1:00 PM for players ages 19 and over. Participants will be evaluated by former Chicago Bears Marcus Robinson and Mickey Pruitt, along with the entire Slaughter Coaching Staff.

The 2009 Chicago Slaughter home season kicks off on Friday, March 6th at 7:00 at the Sears Centre Arena in Hoffman Estates. "The Slaughter would like to offer all of our fans the chance of attending opening night and the team will provide a special discount on all of our upper level seats" said Slaughter Team President Gerry Clarke. "We would also like to invite all of the Chicago Rush fans an opportunity to come watch QB Russ Michna lead our team to the 2009 CIFL Championship," he added.

Slaughter vs Fort Wayne Freedom

2009-06-21T06:36:00.000-07:00

For the first time in franchise history, the Chicago Slaughter will be playing for the league championship.Chicago used a 28-0 second quarter run to defeat the Wisconsin Wolfpack in convincing style 63-19 in the Continental Indoor Football League Western Division Championship at the Sears Centre Saturday night.

The Slaughter (13-0) advances to the 2009 CIFL Championship Game and will host the Fort Wayne Freedom Saturday, June 27 at the Sears Centre. Fort Wayne (7-5) defeated the Marion Mayhem 49-40 Saturday night in the Eastern Division Championship. The Slaughter defeated the Freedom 56-41 April 18 during the regular season in its only meeting of the season.Wisconsin finished its first CIFL season at 7-6.Chicago scored on nine of its first ten possessions.

The only times the Slaughter did not reach the end zone were the final two drives in each half, when the clock expired.Quarterback Russ Michna went 16 for 24 with six touchdown passes, 264 yards and no interception.

Bobby Sippio caught eight passes for 121 yards and three touchdowns. Donovan Morgan added a pair of touchdowns on four receptions for 77 yards."These are some of the most talented guys I?ve ever played with, it's great to be around them," Michna said. "We've planned to be in the championship game from day one, it's been the goal since day one, we're right where we expected to be with one more game to go."

After spotting the Slaughter a 7-0 lead off a Bobby Sippio touchdown grab in the corner of the endzone from Russ Michna, the Wolfpack tied the game at 7-7 when Derrick Brown found the endzone on a three yard run.

That was the first, last and only time Wisconsin would score in the first half. The next time the Wolfpack reached the endzone was not until 3:33 remained in the third quarter.Chicago ripped off 28 unanswered first half points to take a 35-7 lead at halftime.

Donovan Morgan and Sippio each caught a pair of scoring strikes from Michna. And a la Pittsburg Steelers linebacker James Harrison in Super Bowl XLIII, with 0:23 left in the first half Brandon Fields ended a Wolfpack scoring opportunity with a interception he returned coast to coast-50 yards-racing past the entire Wisconsin offense. Fields picked off another pass on Wisconsin?s ensuing possession to maintain a 35-7 halftime lead.

The Slaughter suppressed any chance for a Wolfpack rally in the second half. In the game's final 30 minutes, Chicago continued its pressure and outscored Wisconsin 28-12.Defensively, the Slaughter held Wisconsin to nine first downs and outgained the Wolfpack 282 to 93.

Wisconsin quarterback Chris Kudyba completed 12 of 24 passes for 78 yards, one score and two interceptions.

"We had a great game plan going in. We made all the plays we needed to," Slaughter LB DeJuan Alfonzo said. "It seemed early on that the Wolfpack was trying to catch us off guard, but we turned that around pretty fast."

3-0 AND ON THE WAY TO THE PLAYOFFS!!!!!!

2009-04-02T10:43:00.000-07:00

Back again with the biggest bang yet, the Slaughter is new and improved and better than ever! The addition of the Chicago Rush players, as well as other amazing players that have returned this year will make this slaughter season the best one yet. “Once the Chicago-land public realizes that we are here, I do believe the slaughter will shine,” says general manager Alan Perkins. Now that the Rush is gone it will allow for the recognition of the other Chicago indoor football team, which has to do with the media attention. Bigger names such as Dejuan Alfonso, Khreem Smith, Russ Michna, Demison Robinson and Donovan Morgan have added to the Slaughter after the suspension of the AFL season. The slaughter has also added NFL wide receiver Tony Simmons. When asked if there was going to be a price change to compensate for the economic crisis, general manager Alan Perkins replied, “We have actually lowered our ticket prices this season, tickets are as low as $8.00 and the tickets were reasonable to begin with” Not only is the addition of the new players a great advantage for the slaughter but the addition of Bob McMillen, a long time AFL player and coach brings a tremendous amount of experience and knowledge to the Chicago Slaughter. The season which just started on March 6th may just be the start of the road to June. Last season the slaughter made it to the playoffs, but was unsuccessful in making past the first round. This year it will be a new and improved slaughter. The slaughter isn’t just the other indoor team this year, it is the only venue of indoor football that is available this time around, and will stay this way. It isn’t just the fact that the playing is amazing it is the rush watching this amazing game. It is one of the best atmospheres to be in whether on the field or off. The game itself is like a mini risk that you are able to take, because you never know where the ball will go when you are as close to the action as this game. After the eighty-four to twenty-four victory over the Milwaukee Bone Crushers, there is no question that the Chicago Slaughter has the shot to be the best team around. Playing in front of an almost packed house with 4,798 fans they were able to channel the love of the crowd into this amazing victory. According to a fan “It was an awesome game. It was exciting and the new rush players made it even better than normal. It’s great and fan friendly experience, especially with going down on the field and having the players and Steve “Mongo” McMichael, the head coach of the Chicago Slaughter, give out autographs at the end of the game.” Farewell Rush, Hello Slaughter!

Second open Tryouts!

2009-01-13T16:10:00.000-08:00

The Chicago Slaughter of the Continental Indoor Football League, are extending an invitation to athletes 18 and older looking to demonstrate their skills and begin a professional football career with the Slaughter. The Slaughter are entering their third season in the CIFL and play all home games at the Sears Centre in Hoffman Estates, Ill.

Former Chicago Bears Super Bowl XX Champion and 14-year NFL veteran Steve “Mongo” McMichael is the head coach and will be joined by the Slaughter coaching staff, who will all help in evaluating new talent for the 2009 season.

Tryouts will be held at Finish Strong Sportsplex on Saturday, January 17th from 9 a.m. till 1 PM, with registration from 8 - 9 AM. Finish Strong is a state-of-the-art, indoor sports facility located at 551 W. Roosevelt Rd., in West Chicago, Illinois.

The free agent camp is $50 dollars per person. Athletes of all skill levels are encouraged to tryout and live their dream of becoming a professional football player.
Players must bring their own workout attire and cleats for the indoor facility.
“We are excited about offering this once in a lifetime opportunity to these players,” said Alan Perkins, general manager of the Slaughter. “It is imperative for our team to look at every prospect that comes our way. You can never tell where the next great player will come from.”

Players can fax or mail the tryout information to the Chicago Slaughter front office.

Also, players that pre-pay will receive a discount on tryout fees. Mailed forms should be sent to 1055 W. Golf Road, Hoffman Estates, IL 60169. Faxed forms should be sent to 1-847-310-3199 attn: Chicago Slaughter Tryouts 2009.

To register for the tryout camp, contact Team President Gerry Clarke at (847)-310-3190 or General Manager Alan Perkins at (847)-812-9361. Player resumes and highlight videos can be sent to alanp@chicagoslaughter.com.

Slaughter Sign Standout, “Action” Jackson

2008-12-25T20:40:00.000-08:00

With what has been an extremely busy off season, the Slaughter have continued to ramp things up for the 2009 season with several signings, including the addition of Slaughter veteran WR, Dontrell Jackson. Jackson, a Chicago-land native, played his High School Football at Thornton High School, in Harvey, Illinois. While at Thornton, Jackson won the honor of being selected as the South Suburban Football Player of the Year and was a member of the Illinois All-State team. Jackson was also selected by Tom Lemming as one of the top 100 football players in America in 1999.

After finishing up at Thornton, Jackson was quickly scooped up by Ohio University, where he was a 4 year starting QB, playing and starting in all 48 games of his college career. Jackson was a former pre-season concensus All-American in 2001.

After his collegiate career, Jackson moved on to play two seasons with the Green Bay Blizzard (AF2), in 2005 and 2006. While in Green Bay, he played WR, DB, and was also a backup QB. Jackson was named defensive player of the game, 5 times in 2 years, and he played a significant role in helping his team reach the Arena Cup Championship in San Juan, Puerto Rico in 2006.

In 2007, Dontrell Jackson decided to return to Chicago to play for the Slaughter. In his 2 seasons in Chicago, Jackson has become the Slaughters’ all time leader in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. In 2008, Jackson was ranked in the top 5 in all statistical categories among wide receivers in the C.I.F.L. (receptions, receiving yards and receiving TD’s).

“I am extremely happy to announce that Dontrell Jackson is returning to the Slaughter for the 2009 season”, said Slaughter GM, Alan Perkins. “While Dontrell can play many positions on the football field, we feel that he has proven that he is one of the most electrifying players to play wide receiver that this league has ever seen”, added Perkins.
There is still time to order your season tickets to see all the exciting action. Call 847-310-3190 to get your season tickets now!

Local Celebrity Joins the Crew

2008-12-19T18:36:00.000-08:00

With major football stars recently joining the Slaughter, such as Jim McMahon, Otis Wilson and a long list of others, the Slaughter continued their momentum, by bringing in more local talent, but this time, to the business side of things. The Slaughter are pleased to announce the addition of Gary Castaldo, or as some may have known him previously, Gary “the bagel guy”. Gary has been involved in the local media for the past 14 years, with his tenure being with Next Media and more specifically, Star 105.5 radio station. During his 14 years at Star 105, Gary was involved in sales, marketing, promotions, operations, and of course, was a radio personality. From 1996-2000, Gary was the director of marketing/promotions. From 2000-2004 he moved into the position of operations manager/program director. During this time, Gary also hosted various shows during the day. In 2004, Gary moved into the position of morning show host and remained there until this year. Additional experience for Gary includes coordination of major concerts & events at Galt Airport in Greenwood, IL as well as marketing, promotions, concerts and events at DC Cobbs Bar & Grill in Woodstock. “We are extremely excited and proud to have someone with Gary’s experience on board”, said Slaughter GM Alan Perkins. With the recent addition of television and major radio, Gary’s experience in these areas will be invaluable to the Slaughter.

Gary’s role with the Slaughter will be extremely diverse. Gary will not only be heavily involved in sales and marketing, but he will also play a major role with promotions, events and play a significant role on game day

2009 Season Signing

2008-12-14T18:21:00.000-08:00

Hoffman Estates, Ill. – The Chicago Slaughter of the Continental Indoor Football League, are extending an invitation to athletes 18 and older looking to demonstrate their skills and begin a professional football career with the Slaughter. The Slaughter are entering their third season in the CIFL and play all home games at the Sears Centre in Hoffman Estates, Ill.

Former Chicago Bears Super Bowl XX Champion and 14-year NFL veteran Steve “Mongo” McMichael is the head coach and will be joined by the Slaughter coaching staff, who will all help in evaluating new talent for the 2009 season.

Tryouts will be held at Finish Strong Sportsplex on Saturday, January 17th from 9 a.m. till 1 PM, with registration from 8 - 9 AM. Finish Strong is a state-of-the-art, indoor sports facility located at 551 W. Roosevelt Rd., in West Chicago, Illinois.

The free agent camp is $50 dollars per person. Athletes of all skill levels are encouraged to tryout and live their dream of becoming a professional football player.
Players must bring their own workout attire and cleats for the indoor facility.
“We are excited about offering this once in a lifetime opportunity to these players,” said Alan Perkins, general manager of the Slaughter. “It is imperative for our team to look at every prospect that comes our way. You can never tell where the next great player will come from.”

Players can fax or mail the tryout information to the Chicago Slaughter front office.

Also, players that pre-pay will receive a discount on tryout fees. Mailed forms should be sent to 1055 W. Golf Road, Hoffman Estates, IL 60169. Faxed forms should be sent to 1-847-310-3199 attn: Chicago Slaughter Tryouts 2009.

To register for the tryout camp, contact Team President Gerry Clarke at (847)-310-3190 or General Manager Alan Perkins at (847)-812-9361. Player resumes and highlight videos can be sent to alanp@chicagoslaughter.com.