The Utah Warriors have a new general manager, former Jazz front-office man Larry Baum, and the 2003 National Indoor Football League second-place team emphasizes an optimistic outlook for the second year of the franchise.
"I enjoy taking organizations that might not be doing well and turning them into successes," Baum said at a press conference. Baum also compared the position the Warriors are in to a position he felt the Jazz were in 18 years ago.
Team President Doug Tate's credo, "Home Owned and Home Grown," means almost 80 percent of the roster are local products, including past Utah State, Utah, Southern Utah and Weber State players. The Warriors even draw talent from open tryouts.
Second-year head coach Lee Leslie promised a few surprises but discussed no specifics until everyone had been signed.
Quarterback Danny Ragsdale, who led the NIFL last year with a passer rating of 110.4, may retire or be on the trading block; however, nothing has been finalized yet. Former Ute and New York Giant Omar Bacon, the league's leading scorer, will suit for the Warriors this year, and Leslie expressed his excitement for the talented running back and the upcoming season.
Team officials expressed their commitment to connecting with fans and topping last year's attendance. The Warriors at the E Center in West Valley City averaged around 6,500 fans per game, No. 1 in the Pacific Conference.
"The action happens after the play and during the time-outs. That's what appeals to the fans," Tate said.
The Warriors have open tryouts 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Jan. 29 at the E Center, with registration at 6:30 p.m. The registration fee is $50. Regular-season action begins March 13 vs. Ft. Collins.
E-mail: acole@desnews.com