04/18/03 RiverHawks Press Release

The Tennessee RiverHawks captured their first win this past weekend in Evansville Indiana versus the Evansville Blue Cats.  This win puts the team in the running for 2nd place in the Atlantic East Division.

The Tennessee RiverHawks acquired three new players that helped lead them to victory in the Evansville game: John Finlayson, Bunny Jefferson and Garrett Fowler.  Finlayson helped solidify the offensive line.  Bunny Jefferson’s talent added depth and speed to the defensive back position.  One of Evansville’s top wide receivers had to leave the game with a concussion after Jefferson punished him with a massive hit.  Garrett Fowler stepped in as the team’s kicker providing instant points and helping win the battle for field position.

The RiverHawks rushed 34 times for 128 yards.  Brandon Walker made a huge impact in the team’s success rushing 81 yards on 21 attempts.  Bryan White completed 4 of 7 passes for 47 yards, and Steve Christie landed a touchdown pass in the 2nd quarter.  Broderick Simpson’s intercepted pass helped the defense hold Evansville to 132 yards.  Fowler made two field goal attempts in the 1st quarter.  Finlayson capped of a scoring drive with a one-yard touchdown run in the 2nd quarter.  Walker helped insure the win with two 3rd quarter touchdowns.

In this weeks match-up against the Fort Wayne Freedom Bruce Jackson, one of the leagues best centers, is returning after a one-week layoff.  He explored an Arena Football 2 League offer in North Carolina, but decided to stay with the RiverHawks.  Jackson’s return will help to improve on a league best 114 yards per game rushing average.

    “The game this week is crucial for us.  If we can capture a win against Fort Wayne it will place us in a tie for 2nd place in the division,” offensive coordinator Garmez Parks said.

This week’s game against the Fort Wayne Freedom is Saturday April 19 at the Knoxville Civic Coliseum.  The RiverHawks are hosting “Armed Forces Night” to honor all local servicemen.  Anyone with a military ID receives a $2 discount off regular admission.  Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 pm.