Former CFL player Ben Jones joins the Capitols

06/24/02 Capitols Press Release

"Toronto's loss is definitely a Capitols gain." That's how Lincoln Capitols Head Coach Jose Jefferson describes the acquisition of defensive back Ben Jones who was recently cut from the Canadian Football League's Toronto Argonauts.  Nicknamed "Mr. Jones", the 6'0, 210 pounder from Fullerton, CA., played his collegiate ball at Iowa Wesleyan College, where he was an All American safety, in addition to earning All Conference honors each of the four years he played.  Jones was also a standout with the 2000 and 2001 former Lincoln Lightning, recording 5 interceptions, 80 tackles and 2 sacks before being sent to Toronto.  According to Jefferson, "we sent him to the CFL and we're fortunate to get him back, I'm very happy."  Ben say's his greatest football accomplishment was "scoring my first college touchdown in my last collegiate game in 1999."  Jones will be a welcome addition to the defensive backfield for the Capitols which at times has suffered key injuries, specifically the early season loss of former Husker Troy Watchorn, and more recently, Heath Staples, although, according to coach Jefferson, Staples is expected to return to the line-up when the Caps take on the River City Renegades, this Saturday at Pershing.

Capitols General Manager Terri Nielsen also announced today that Lincoln Mayor Don Wesley will be the Special Guest "Coin Tosser" at the beginning of this Saturday's NIFL game between the Capitols and River City Renegades. Doors open at 6:30 with kick-off set for 7:35 at Pershing.  The Capitols play their final regular season game on Friday, July 5, 2002 when they host the Tri-Cities Diesel, a team that has a lot in common with the Capitols, they're both owned by Lincoln's Bruce Bailey.

Coach Jefferson is available for interviews during business hours, 8am - 5pm Monday through Friday by calling the Capitols office at 477-8888.  Player interviews may be arranged by calling Ron Dean, Director of Media Relations, at 477-1414.