02/21/03 RiverHawks Press Release

     The Tennessee RiverHawks today announced the addition of three new coaches for the team’s inaugural 2003 season in Knoxville.

                Former University of Tennessee running back Jay Graham has joined the coaching staff to coach running backs. The 1997 third round NFL draft pick appeared in 22 games in 3 seasons with the Baltimore Ravens making four starts.  Graham’s career high of 154 yards came against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1998. 

                Another new coach with ties to the University of Tennessee will also join the RiverHawks in 2003.  Mark Bradley, UT’s assistant coach from 1990 through 2000, has taken the defensive coordinator position.   “I am very excited to have the opportunity to work with Heath Shuler.  I have known him for a long time, and I believe we will be able to make the team’s first year a success,” said Bradley who has assisted many teams throughout his long career in football.  Bradley most recently held the assistant coach position at Stephen F. Austin State University.

                The RiverHawks have also named former University of Tennessee linebacker Matthew Blankenship to their coaching staff.  Blankenship will serve as strength/conditioning and linebacker coach during the RiverHawks inaugural season.  Currently a strength and conditioning coach at UT, Blankenship was a member of the ’97 SEC Championship Team and the ’98 National Championship Team for the Volunteers