Gator Country

GAINESVILLE, FL. (November 7, 2007) – University of Florida football great Chris Leak today announced that he will pursue his professional playing career as a member of Team Florida of the All American Football League. Leak’s decision to play for Team Florida, where he’ll be coached by another former Gators quarterback great, Shane Matthews, further solidifies the team’s connection to one of the most storied programs in college football.

As a member of Team Florida, Leak will once again grace the playing field of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium which will host three of the team’s five home games during the inaugural 2008 season.

In 2006, Leak led Florida to a 13-1 record and a national championship. Leak completed 25 of 36 passes for 213 yards and one touchdown in the BCS Championship, to lead Florida to a 41-14 victory over top-ranked Ohio State.

Leak finished his career as Florida’s all-time leader in passing attempts (1,458), completions (895) and yardage (11,213). He is second all-time in school history in completion percentage (61.4%) and touchdown passes with 88. Leak was named to the SEC Academic Honor Roll each semester and was a finalist for the Draddy Trophy symbolic of athletic and academic excellence.

“We know the passion for college football is unrivaled among Florida fans and fans in the other AAFL markets that will host teams,” said Team Florida Board Chairman and former Florida receiver Lee McGriff. In addition to Florida, AAFL teams based in Alabama, Arkansas, Michigan, Tennessee and Texas will make-up the All American Football League when play begins in April 2008. “Fans in Florida are enthusiastic about having the opportunity to see players like Chris Leak play in The Swamp again,” he said.

Adding to the Florida connection, former Gators Travis McGriff, Vernell Brown, Judd Davis, Chris Doering, Tony George, Willie Jackson, Steve Rissler, Fred Weary and Eli Williams have received Team Florida contract offers. Assisting Matthews, the coaching staff includes former Gators coaches Jim Collins and Red Anderson and former running back Terry Jackson.

Florida season tickets are scheduled to go on sale this month. For more information on season tickets and the AAFL, log on to http://www.AAFL.com.

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