Every fan has an “ideal” signing – a star player in college or professional football with significant playing experience. For those fans, Chris Kolokithas is not the ideal player. Nevertheless, Kolokithas comes to the 2009 Canton Legends determined to prove that he is worth his salt as an impact player. Kolokithas, nicknamed “Crazy Legs,” is one of the three newest Legends, signed after the October tryouts. In addition, Kolokithas will be providing fans with a weekly Canton Legends update right here on Around the Turf as the season progresses. Read on to learn more about Kolokithas and his experiences as a new Canton Legend and in the football world at-large. (and feel free to use the comments section to welcome him to the Hall of Fame city!)
Around the Turf: What is your football background?
Kolokithas: I played four years in high school as a HB. My senior year I didn’t see much playing time, but when I did I had nine rushes for 112 yards and a touchdown and four receptions for 41 yards. I was recruited by Albion College in 2004 and only got through football camp before the reality of how much a DIII school really costs caught up to me. So I sat out on the school thing and trained for four years while I managed a cell phone store. In 2007 I decided it was time to prove myself to the professional football world, where I attended several tryouts: the first being in Indianapolis for the New York Dragons, which went well considering I received a call back and a confidence boost.
Around the Turf: How did you first find out about the Legends?
Kolokithas: I first found out about the Legends via google, but it really sparked my interest at the Cleveland Gladiators tryout.
Around the Turf: Have you moved to Canton yet? If so, what are your impressions of the area?
Kolokithas: No I haven’t moved to Canton yet, but my first impression of the city was great considering it has the Football HOF in it.
Around the Turf: In your opinion, what is the number one reason people should check the Canton Legends?
Kolokithas: Well the Canton Legends have some great rookies and veterans coming in, a coach who has “been there, done that,” and a city that embraces football.
Around the Turf: According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, you have tried out for over 15 AFL teams. What have you learned from those experiences?
Kolokithas: I can say that I’m a rookie that feels like a veteran thanks to all the tryouts. Really it feels like I’ve packed years that you play college into the tryouts that I’ve attended. Don’t get me wrong I train a ton, but coaches along the way have helped me focus on things that i need to work on. I’m just happy to finally get my chance to shine.
Around the Turf: What is your impression of the Legends coaching staff? What strengths and weaknesses do you see?
Kolokithas: The Legends coaching staff is very knowledgeable of the game. Coach Hall is a veteran defensive player and I think defense is a very important part of the indoor game, while the rest of the staff has a very well rounded background.
Around the Turf: And the other players most recently signed?
Kolokithas: I met both players at the tryout. Jesse is a great “in your face” DB, he’ll give receivers a hard time on the line. And Adam has a great arm; one I think will help lead the Legends to victory.
Around the Turf: What are your expectations for the upcoming season?
Kolokithas: My expectations for this season are very high. I’m looking forward to getting out there and just playing football. I promise the fans some amazing games ahead!
