Arena Football League - Georgia Force

Georgia Force Players Protest Helmet Stripes

Force players unhappy with helmet stripes

By LARRY HARTSTEIN
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 02/05/04

Marketing is one thing. Looking silly is another, according to Georgia Force quarterback Leon Murray.

In advance of Sunday's season opener, Force players are protesting the addition of red and gold stripes on their black helmets for the first two home games.

The stripes were the brainchild of owner Virgil Williams and his chief adviser, Vince Dooley, who called them a tribute to Georgia and Georgia Tech football. Legends from those programs will be honored at halftime of the first two home games.

"There's nothing gold or red on the uniforms — we're black and blue," said Murray, one of a group of players who went to general manager Eddie Rockwell on Wednesday to voice displeasure.

"You just don't want to be looked at as a joke or a gimmick."

Murray said the players are unanimous in their opposition. But it's nothing that will interfere with preparation for their 3 p.m. game at the Arena at Gwinnett Center against the New York Dragons.

"We have a job to do," said Murray, who added that several fans also were upset about the stripes.

Rockwell understands the players' position but disagrees the stripes are gimmicky.

"It's an expression of gratitude and friendship for the two biggest football colleges in the state," he said.

The idea was hatched at the news conference in which Dooley joined the Force as an adviser.

Dooley jokingly told Williams the helmet needed "a touch of red" and placed a stripe on one.

Williams, a Tech alum, wanted the Yellow Jackets represented, too.

"It started as something humorous, and it just seemed like a good idea," Rockwell said. "We've made a commitment to our fans already."

The Force has one former Bulldog, Bruce Adrine, and no former Jackets.

Murray said he's glad Dooley is on board and he welcomes ties with the college programs and their fans.

"But we want our own identity."

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