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2009 NAFL FOOTBALL

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March 29, 2009 Friendly 'Rivalry' highlights schedule

By Greg Gielczyk / Sports Writer

Although they haven’t played a down in the North American Football League, and don’t kick off their inaugural season until July 11, the Traverse City Wolves have a built-in rivalry with the Genesee County Patriots.How is it possible for a rivalry to exist between two teams who have never met at the line of scrimmage? This rivalry exists between coaches.Daniel Skibbe, the Wolves owner, chief executive officer and – for the present – interim head coach has a history with the Patriots.Skibbe was a coach with Genesse for a couple of years before he decided to break off on his own and start the Wolves. “I think that’s the background between the two organizations, and it makes for a good, friendly rivalry, too,” said Skibbe, a University of Michigan alumnus who often dons maize and blue. “It’s not Michigan-Ohio State yet, but it’s the closest thing we have right now.” The Wolves-Patriots rivalry becomes physical Aug. 15 in Traverse City, with round two in Genesse on Sept. 12. It won’t be the only test in the 11-game schedule. The Wolves are slated to open the season at London, Ontario against the defending division champions. London finished the regular season 10-0 last year in making the playoffs. After the trip to Canada, the Wolves return to Michigan for a game at Ypsilanti, another expansion team, before making their home debut at Traverse City Central’s field against the Tri-City Thunder on Saturday, July 25. “I’ve talked to Tri-City’s owner a couple of times over the past two weeks, and they are actually very excited to come to Traverse City,” Skibbe said. “Hopefully we’ll put on a good show for them.” One of the more daunting challenges comes when the Wolves face the Kane County Eagles in a crossover game. Kane County has won the NAFL title four out of the 10 years it’s been in the league, which started in 1996. “It’s going to be a good measuring stick for us, to find out what we’re made of,” Skibbe said. “The game’s at home, so at least we’ll have the fans behind us in that one.” “Playing in London will be a tough one, but then we’ll at least be in-state for the second game.” “Then, I’m sure nerves will be flying all over the city when we come home for the third game. But it’s going to be exciting.” Also on the Wolves’ home schedule is an Aug. 29 game against the London Silverbacks and a Sept. 26 rematch with the Ypsilanti Yellow Jackets.

LEAGUE STANDINGS

Congratulations to the Indianapolis Tornados for winning the 2008 NAFL1 Championship!

Indianapolis Tornados 45

San Diego 35

Check back during the 2009 season for league stats here.

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