I am hoping to see a few Blake Powers to Quorey Payne touchdowns in the near future.  I received media credentials to cover The Mahoning Valley Thunder for this season.  I am excited about the opportunity and hope to give the team additional exposure through this website. 

I was a waterboy when Al Boggia coached the Youngstown Hardhats in the 1970’s.  Since then, the Youngstown area has only had great high school football, Youngstown State, and either Cleveland or Pittsburgh as an outlet for professional fandom.  What I like most about the local AF2 Thunder playing at The Chevy Center is that they are working hard to put people in the seats.  I see great promotions everywhere — everything from buy one-get one free, to family discounts (which include tickets, food, and refreshments), to entertainment besides the game, at the game.  It is an honest effort that I respect.

The Thunder play in the AF2 league.  Arena football is like a hamster race until you can get used to the speed of the game.  Players have to go both ways, almost like at Lowellville High School, but on a much grander scale.  I enjoy this brand of football and look forward to bringing my readers to better know and support The Mahoning Valley Thunder!

The Thunder has gotten off to a rocky start so far in 2009.  The squad fell to 1-3 this past weekend at the hands of The Wilkes-Barre Pioneers, who are 6-0 all-time against Mahoning Valley Thunder teams.  The team returns home this weekend for a 7:05 PM  Saturday game against Tulsa.  Hopefully The Cortland Banks Field inside The Chevy Center can produce some magic for the home team!