Soul to host open tryout in Southern California

PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Soul and Utah Blaze will hold an open player tryout on Saturday, January 14 at Carson High School in Carson, CA.

The school is located at 22328 Main Street, Carson, CA 90745-4599.

Soul head coach Doug Plank, assistant head coach Clint Dolezel, assistant coach Leroy Thompson, as well as Utah Blaze head coach Ron James will be part of evaluating all players in attendance.

“Southern California is an area that we believe is rich in football talent,” said Soul general manager Tom Goodhines.  “Getting in front of two Arena Football League teams at once gives the potential players their best opportunity to land a spot on a roster for the upcoming season.”

All participants can pre-register at www.philadelphiasoul.com.  The cost of the tryout is $60 for those who pre-register and $80 at the door by cash, money order or certified funds only.  All fees are non-refundable.  On the day of the tryout, registration will begin at 8 a.m., with stretching starting promptly at 9 a.m.

The Soul found two players – Alfonso Hoggard and Jesse Cooper – from the last Soul tryout on Oct. 22 in Philadelphia and found three – Nyere Aumaitre, Jerome Hayes and Keith Stokes – that became starters from last year’s open tryouts.

Players will be tested on their 40-yard time, broad jump and short shuttle with other position-specific drills and one-on-ones to follow.  Please bring appropriate workout gear and shoes/cleats.  Testing will take place on field turf – no metal cleats are permitted.  A trainer will be on hand for emergencies only – not for player taping.

The Soul will also hold an open tryout at the Philadelphia NovaCare facility on Saturday, Jan. 28 with registration starting at 8 a.m.  Full details for both tryouts are available at www.philadelphiasoul.com.