Former QB Brad Roach Goes AFL2

Youngstown, OH. - The Mahoning Valley Thunder is pleased to announce that Quarterback Brad Roach (6'6, 250) has been assigned to the team by the af2 League Offices. Roach is an af2 rookie.

Roach takes the roster spot of Quarterback Blake Powers who has been placed on Injured Reserve.

A native of North Carolina, Roach played collegiately at Division II Catawba College. As a senior, Roach earned All-American honors and was also named the South Atlantic Conference Offensive Player of the Year.

During that 2007 campaign, Roach threw for 3,322 yards and 32 touchdowns. Brad left Catawba as the Indians' all-time passing yards average leader with 212.8 per game. Roach's 7,874 yards and 62 touchdown passes both rank second in school history.

Following his college career Roach signed a free agent contract with the NFL's Baltimore Ravens before being released in training camp. Earlier this month Roach participated in rookie minicamp with the CFL's Montreal Allouettes.

With starting Quarterback Davon Vinson less than 100%, Roach is expected to see significant playing time this week as the Thunder travel to Albany.

Thunder Head Coach Chris MacKeown said, "Brad has a really strong arm and the ability to make all the throws in the indoor game. He's a big guy who looks more like a Defensive End, guys like that give defensive lineman fits because if you can get to him, he's tough to bring down. Obviously being a rookie he is going to need some time to learn the game."

"But we feel like he has all the tools to make a quick transition and be a successful Quarterback sooner rather than later."

The Mahoning Valley Thunder's third season is under way! Don't miss your chance to feel all the hard-hitting, fast paced action of arena football! Tickets for this event are just $5 dollars and are on sale now! For more information call the Thunder Offices at 330.758.4232.