Rush to Victory

By Todd McClamroch in News on Jun 12, 2006 3:18AM

The Chicago Rush defeated the Orlando Predators 69-61 to win ArenaBowl XX in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Rush tamed the Predators in front of a crowd of over 13,000 at the Thomas & Mack Center.

The game started slowly with the Rush taking a 10-0 lead into the first quarter break. After that, the pace increased leading to what would become the second highest score in ArenaBowl history.

Quarterback Matt D'Orazio played a great game, throwing 26 completions on 36 attempts for 250 yards and scoring 6 touchdowns without an interception. Wait, did we mention he also ran for two touchdowns?

It was surely a special day for Chicago Rush Coach Mike Hohensee. Hohensee has played a role in each of the twenty seasons of the Arena Football League either as a player or coach. The victory today provided his first championship ring.

Speaking of rings, Chicago Bears legend Mike Ditka is an owner of the Rush and will be adding more gold to his fingers when he adds the ArenaBowl ring to accompany his 1985 Super Bowl ring earned while coaching the Bears.

No word yet on a public celebration for Chicago's newest champions. We will keep you posted if we hear anything.

Photo courtesy of ChicagoRush.com.