AFL: Destoryer Leader Q&A
The Columbus Destroyers entering this season released starter Matt D’Orazio who was then acquired by the Chicago Rush. The Destroyers then went out and signed the Quarterback that gave me so many good memories from St. Louis, AFL Veteran John Kaleo to lead the team. Kaleo recently spoke with the American Chronicle to discuss his last 12 years in the AFL, and being part of the Destroyers, among other items.
Q:Explain how has the position of AFL Quarterback evolved since your 1993 Rookie Season with the Albany Firebirds?
A:That’s a really good question. It’s still the same throws we made 13 years ago. The position has gotten better though. There are more guys that have played the position like: Kelly, Dolezel, and Bonner who have made the throws and the position what it is. You can’t take a 6'4" strong thrower and play the game.
Q:Your longest run with a team was from 2000-2003 which included an AFL Championship talk about your time there with Coach Marcum and the Storm?
A:One of the best memories I have and better times. Coach Marcum believed in me and thought I could be a great part of the team. I am grateful to Coach Marcum and my teammates.
Q:What is the strangest ritual you have to prepare for a game and the strangest ritual you’ve seen someone else do?
A:I don’t really have any. I either get a jog in or light joke and sleep. 2 types guys who are Amped and Hype and then you have laid-back guys.
Q:Discuss your thoughts after last season and where you thought you would be?
A:I thought I played extremely well and I wanted to finish my career in LA. I don’t like bouncing around, but that’s how Free Agency works, and you have to do what’s best for your family.
Q:What were you doing when you found out that Columbus was going to pick you up?
A:I talked to Coach Kay and our Owner , I was at my home in Tampa sitting by the pool.
Q:What did you project being toughest part about coming to Columbus and what has been the toughest part?
A: I would have I anticipated getting team chemistry with all the guys would be the toughest part. Coach Kay kept four guys from last years team, but brought in veterans. The toughest part has been getting the connection with my receiving core. We’ve had injuries, and inexperience. Everyone looking to gel and some changes what we’ve made in the last couple weeks will help us.
Q:Discuss what specifically you need to do in order to help Columbus be successful?
A: Chemistry with receivers “WE” both need to pick it up. Until we do that it will continue to be a struggle.
Q:Your new number receiver is Thabiti Davis. Compare and contrast him to Kevin Ingram?
A:They are two different players. Davis is bigger and KI is a basketball type of player. KI has excellent body control and speed, where Davis has the size and physical attribute.
Q:It has to feel good having three games at home coming into the 2nd quarter of the season, but two are against very respectable teams in Philadelphia and Georgia. Talk about the team’s mind set?
A:The mid set for us is to get on track and change the image. We need to start making people respect us. We have the players to do that, and we have players who have won the Arena Bowl and people who have won in this league.
Rapid Fire Word Association
Cecil Doggette: Savvy Veteran
Destoryers Head Coach Doug Kay: 1st class
AFL Commissioner David Baker: 1st class
Tony Graziani: Gunslinger
Stats As of Press Time
* 68.1 rating , 12 tds , 63-130 , 681 yds , 6 int.
* Also became the AFL’s 6th leading All-Time Touchdown passer with his 51st against Arizona on February 24, 2006.
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