New Rochelle, NY - June 10, 2008 - Today the Crusaders coaching staff met and made some radical roster moves. This has to be the hardest thing a coach has to do. The coaching staff truly looked weathered by the process. Letting some players go that they would have loved to have kept on the roster.

Coach Brown, when asked his mindset in making these decisions, remarked, "It's kind of like a cross-word puzzle. Sometimes puzzle pieces look right, but they just don't fit your puzzle. Sometimes players don't understand that, but it comes down to more than just talent or commitment. It's experience, knowledge of the game, knowledge of the position, etc." 

Coach concluded, "We [Crusaders] are truly Gladiators of the Gridiron, and that guides my decisions". Coach stated that when he recruited players he recruited warriors, who would go out into battle and dominate each week. The whole mindset behind the Crusaders is to be equally as tough mentally and physically. Brown says his staff's mission is to train the body, mind, and soul. 

Click below to see the Crusaders recent changes.

• Depth Chart
• Roster

New Rochelle, NY - June 4, 2008 - The Crusaders have finally given the public a view of their uniforms for their inaugural season, and wow was it worth the wait! Head coach, Tony Brown was very happy with the team's reaction. 

Nike truly came through with the new style uniform. Outdoing themselves for the team's historic first look. The Crusaders are one of the first teams in the country to adorn this uniform, stated NIKE representatives.

The team was surprised with the uniforms on Wednesday evening during one of their mid-week training camp workouts. Players were elated, even the most particular of critics. 

The Crusaders will wear the purple jersey with white pants, as the home uniform, while the white jersey and white pants will primarily serve as the team's away uniform, except for on negotiated situations. 

Coach Brown reacts to the uniform on player rep, Karl Pfistner

The Crusaders will begin their season July 26th at home against the Burlington Blackhawks. (See More Photos)

(Crusaders' NIKE rep, Sal Travaglino fits Ray Simmons during training Camp)

New Rochelle, NY - June 2, 2008 - NIKE Rep, Sal Travaglino, visited the Crusaders facility last night to custom fit, game and practice, cleats for the players and coaches. Travaglino closely examined NIKE's endorsees, as the team engaged in light drills and conditioning at the indoor facility in New Rochelle. 

He openly remarked that the Crusaders "had a great thing going" and that "we are proud to be a part of it", as he spoke to both players and coaches. 

The team's rep outfitted the Crusaders in the newest styles of NIKE performance cleats, most of which are not yet even available to anyone other than NIKE endorsed teams, such as the Crusaders. 

The Crusaders are committed to NIKE, and clearly take pride in the endorsement situation with the team. In addition, the team plans to execute a number of promotions this season with NIKE and NIKE products. The Crusaders also plan to unveil their NIKE uniforms to the public sometime this month. 

(More photos to be added to Gallery)

(Safety, Tony Lingard covers during training Camp)

New Rochelle, NY - May 24, 2008 - Safety, Tony Lingard who had sustained a shoulder injury two weeks ago in training camp is staring at, what seems to be, an inevitable surgery. After an X-Ray, MRI, and bone analysis, the situation looks grim. 

Crusaders Associate Team Physician, Robert J. Meislin is treating Lingard and has extensive experience with these types of injuries. Meislin, who was the Associate Team Physician for the NFL's Arizona Cardinals for eight years, is not new to this type of injury. He made certain that he speedily diagnosed the injury. 

Defensive Coordinator, Hendrick Fernandez was somber in his comments citing, "it's a tough loss for the defense. He [Lingard] brings a lot of leadership to the defense, along with experience to our unit. It is a great loss and I just hope that he is going to be ok." 

Head Coach, Anthony M. Brown deferred from comment earlier in the week, as he wanted to ensure that he was completely apprised of the injury and the details of Dr. Meislin's suggested course of action. Brown commented today stating, "I hate to see anyone have to go through this, especially a veteran like Tony [Lingard]. If there are any positives, it's that it happened prior to the season and it's possible that he may return this season. The other is that, we, as a team, truly have the proper personnel to deal with such injuries in Dr. Meislin and in Warren [Hamlet]. I am comfortable knowing that he is receiving the best medical treatment available for this type of injury, from them. I am very concerned for Tony and his family, and I pray he has a speedy recovery."

Lingard's teammate, wide receiver, J. J. Johnson has also been in close contact with the safety through this time. Johnson had this to offer, "He's really having a tough time with it, the injury that is. I sympathize because I know how it is. It's frustrating, when you have an injury. I know he's in a lot of pain, and feeling a little down. I've talked to him, and I hope he can return, but I don't know what Doc is saying in reference to that." 

Lingard will opt to do the surgery now. Whether that means the end of his 2008 season or not, remains to be seen. No matter what the outcome, Lingard's teammates clearly miss him and are concerned for their comrade. The team sentiment is that they want a speedy recovery and Lindard's return to the Crusader defense. 

No formal statement had been released by Lingard at the time of this article.

Further information will be released as it is provided.

New Rochelle, NY - May 9, 2008 - Although the Crusaders were enjoying their monthly Friday off-day, the team's Quarterback, Wide Receivers, and Tight Ends were hard at work. Coach Brown quietly called the Quarterback Camp for Friday, to the surprise of his skill players. The closed session was held at the team's New Rochelle facility. 

"We really needed to work on our timing, and I wanted us to make sure we got on the same page with each other". Brown meticulously worked on defensive reads and mechanics. The concentration was on detail, as he intricately explained his offensive theories. The mood remained loose as

Quarterbacks, Steven Torres, D.J. Kennedy, and Tai Ray Miller navigated accuracy drills through the two hour practice session. Wide Receivers, J.J. Johnson and Kowan Shay, along with Tight End, Shawn "Lefty" Smalls received the throws from the elite Crusader arms.

Brown said he was very pleased with the results of the camp, and that he felt it was greatly needed. Players, also, seemed to appreciate the camp, as their was a mood of resolution at day's end. 

(For Quarterback Camp photos click here) 

New York, NY - May 8, 2008 - University of Maryland's Sammy Maldonado signed with the New York Crusaders today. After a workout with the team on Wednesday, it was clear that Maldonado was a great fit for the Crusaders linebacker corp., as he hauled in an interception and, also, added a number of tackles to his stats. Maldonado is the type of personality that has become indicative of the Crusaders current roster, a true football player in dedication, commitment, respect, and heart. 

Brown, also, added that the Crusaders are still actively recruiting at certain positions.

(Head Coach, Anthony Brown reviews depth Chart)

New York, NY - May 1, 2008 - Head coach, Anthony Brown and Defensive Coordinator, Hendrick Fernandez both seemed elated at last evenings practice, after witnessing a spirited show of team unity among the Crusaders players. 

On another note, Coach Brown and Hendrick have been making moves and adjustments within the depth chart to find the right pieces to the puzzle. (See Depth Chart), as he continues to find the best fit for the team's CFA championship chase.

Upon his return, he was welcomed by Head Coach Tony Brown's growing playbook, which currently stands roughly about two hundred pages and counting. Kennedy seemed to be back physically, completing some pretty impressive passes downfield, but was clearly feeling the results of his lost time when it came to Brown's offensive system. 

After the two hour workout, Kennedy was asked how he felt about his first field practice since returning, he remarked "It feels good to be back. I feel really good physically, but I've got to study". The team will have Friday off, then return to their regular practice schedule on this Monday, April 28.

Linebacker Eric Wilson led defense

(Coach Hendrick, Commissioner Alford, Deputy Commissioner Hall, Head Coach Brown)

Conshohocken, PA - March 29, 2008- After a long off season of anticipation, and after months of contemplation and debate, the Crusaders have finally made a decision in regards to the league in which they will compete. This decision has become one of the most anticipated stories of the upcoming minor league season. So on Sunday, March 30, 2008 Crusaders President of Football Operations, Tony Brown attended league meetings with the Colonial Football Alliance (CFA) accompanied by Executive Administrator, Elizabeth Johnson, Assistant Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator, Hendrick Fernandez and Director of Community Affairs, Julio Agosto. The meetings went very well for the Crusaders organization, as the team continued to build on their reputation as a very professional organization. The Crusaders’ presentation for the league, complete with a colorful PowerPoint presentation, was very informative and left nothing to question. Every aspect of the organization, from uniforms to facilities, was discussed and displayed in depth, as the members of the Colonial Football League (CFA) embraced the organization in a unanimous vote. 

Coach Brown was ecstatic with the organization's new league home, stating "I am happy about our decision to come to the CFA, and it is clear we made the right choice!" He added, "We are in for some good football. The owners and members of this league are more football oriented, and it's not a situation engulfed in the politics as in a lot of other leagues. The members of this league have embraced us and we them. The league structure mirrors the NFL and the members are striving to become the premiere league in minor league football, and to become a major scouting outlet for the professional leagues. That is also our mission, as an organization. Therefore, this is a great opportunity for us."

The meeting progressed efficiently, as the teams voted on various topics and finalized league business. League Commissioner, Tracy Alford openly stated his opinion of the Crusaders' presentation and organization, "They have raised the bar for other teams! They’re very professional and organized and the league is proud to have them."

When questioned in reference to the talent in the CFA, Brown replied, "The level of competition here is great. You have some really proven teams here like the Steelers, Coal Crackers, and the Sting. Then you have a team with the great history of Scranton (now known as the Electric City Chargers)." When Brown was asked how he foresaw his team fairing in 2008, he confidently responded, "Oh, I see us in post season play. We will be a very smart team. We [the Crusaders] will understand the game of football, the way we are supposed to."

Brown remained in the meeting to late evening, as the Crusaders' 2008 schedule was executed. The CFA will be divided into two conferences, the National conference and the American conference. The Crusaders will compete in the National Conference in the Eastern Division.


(Coach Brown and Coach Hendrick schedule)

The Crusaders open their season at home against the Burlington Blackhawks on July 26 at 7:30 pm .  The Crusaders will call Maritime College's Reinhart Stadium home for 2008, in hopes of making it their permanent residence. We look forward to following our club throughout the season, as they embark on their crusade for the 2008 CFA Championship.

For more information on the Crusaders visit www.gocrusadersgo.com

New Rochelle, NY - February 21, 2008 - After a regional search for a kicker / punter the Crusaders have found a diamond in their very own backyard. Today the Crusaders signed Kicker, Anthony Di Fino for the 2008 season. Di Fino, played his college career at the legendary Fordham University. Di Fino has gained various honors as a kicker, including being named to the Don Hansen All Northeast team in 2006. Di Fino will wear number 8 for the Crusaders this year, and will shoulder all of the team's kicking responsibilities. 

Crusaders Director of Football Operations, Tony Brown, stated that he was very aware of Di Fino and his abilities but had no communication with him until a chance meeting last week occurred 

between Di Fino and Defensive Coordinator, Coach Hendrick Fernandez. "We are pretty much set now", remarked Brown referring to the signing of Di Fino. Brown appeared very happy as the two made took the customary media photo ops after Di Fino's signing. 

Clearly Di Fino was the missing link to the team's roster. The Crusaders will have a very high emphasis on special teams execution. Points in the red zone should not be a problem for them this season with the addition of Anthony Di Fino. Quarterback D. J. Kennedy will serve as Di Fino's holder. 

This has been a great week for the Crusaders, as they plan to announce both their league affiliation, and their home stadium this weekend.

New Rochelle, NY - February 8, Saturday's open tryout participants will hope to be joining that group, as a part of the Crusaders Minor League Football Club. 

Brown has been reviewing player information and evaluating his current talent in an effort to make sure he brings in the right talent and retains the team's fluid chemistry. 

Open Tryouts are Saturday, February 16th at 1:00 P.M.

The offense orchestrated a symphony of formations. We counted upwards of 72 different offensive formations. Across the gym, the defense worked diligently, with Coach Hendrick, on recognition and defensive schemes before joining the offense.

The offense and defense squared off for about an hour with the offense executing numerous plays and looks. The defense responded by ending the practice with an interception to end the two hour session. 

(Coach Brown conducts his symphony) 

The last Mini Camp of the season will be held March 3, 2008, followed by training camp on April 2.

New Rochelle, NY - January 26, 2008 - The Crusaders kicked off the team's first mini camp last night in New Rochelle. Players gave the community its first look at the team's Nike practice uniform, as they practiced in jerseys and helmets. 

Coach Tony Brown made some roster decisions after the two hour conditioning and positional drill workout. Brown stated that he was very pleased with not only the attendance, but with the talent he has signed. Defensive coordinator, Hendrick Fernandez took the mini camp workout to the brink with his conditioning drills. The team looked very together and unified for a first workout.

Wide receiver, J. J. Johnson commented, "I really loved the chemistry of the players here. Although there is a friendly competition, there was no animosity or conflict. The team was really supportive of each other. It’s a rarity to see this kind of gelling in such an early phase of the season."

On the offensive side of the ball, D. J. Kennedy confirmed that he was the "right man for the job" by showing a strong arm and taking control of the team. Coaches and players were impressed by his mechanics and footwork, as he eased through his individual and group drills. Some other pleasant surprises include tight end, Celestino Collado, who was signed as a running tight end but proved that he will also be a weapon receiving the ball. Wide receiver, Calvin Chisholm

who led his former team in touchdowns in 2007, came into camp sporting a new more muscular look for 2008. Calvin's hands appear to have not lost their luster, as he displayed his talents for the onlookers. Offensive lineman, Chanton Stevenson took control of the offensive line, as he made clear that his leadership will be the key to their success this year. Other mentionables included the soft hands of fullback, Jeff Digiulio and the speed and quickness of running Back, Kenny Lockhart. Not to forget the heart of players like Jose Soto and Shawn Stein.

On the defensive side of the ball, Eric Wilson came into camp in great shape and showed that his linebacker skills had not diminished over the long off-season. He was accompanied by veteran linebacker and player rep, Donte Williams who commanded Coach Hendrick's  linebacking drills with ease. James and Joel Polo forced everyone to take notice with their ferocious play, and demanded the attention of those in attendance. Terrence Watts led the defensive backs and came into the camp in exceptional physical condition.

The talent and work ethic of these players reeks of championship football in New York for 2008. You would be hard pressed to find an opponent that would not be intimidated by this roster and organization.

New Rochelle, NY - January 7, 2008 - Defensive Coordinator, Coach Hendrick demanded player's attention, as he defined the team's goals and expectations for the 2008 season. He covered every aspect from attitude to defensive schemes. Players seemed attentive and in concordance, as he continued to elaborate on the team's mindset and protocol. 

Player Reps, Calvin Chisholm and J.J. Johnson, also addressed the team and echoed the same sentiment for 2008. Player responded very supportively and the season's focus seems to clearly be a first season championship.

Coach Brown, also, informed us that the team "Mini-Camp" and "Open Try-out" rosters will be released sometime within the next week. Stating that the Mini Camps are invitation only.

Further details of the meeting were not cleared for release by the coaching 
staff at the time of this story.

New Rochelle, NY - January 7, 2008 - Coach Tony Brown presented his team with their new Riddell helmets for the 2008 season. After reading page by page through the team's manual, he informed players that the new helmets would be issued at the beginning of training camp.

Further details of the meeting were not cleared for release by the coaching staff at the time of this story.

New Rochelle, NY -December 10, 2007 - Fresh off the trail from an organizational meeting, Head Coach, Tony Brown confidently slipped into the Crusaders' New Rochelle facility. He observed his players and coaches, as he took mental inventory before greeting them all with a firm handshake and looks of approval. The team embraced the coaches rules and regulations, paying close attention as the meeting progressed, as if it were planned right down to the second. Coach Brown addressed numerous items, but the most important seemed to be a pamphlet handed out to all of the players. The paperback's cover was adorned with a familiar symbol; the Crusader armed with a shield bearing the Fleur-de-les, a symbol dear to the City of New Rochelle. The wording that boar into the booklet's shiny cover read bold and clear "CRUSADERS MINOR LEAGUE FOOTBALL CLUB Player's Manual". The team  followed along as Coach Brown meticulously read each and every word of the code of conduct, uniform rules, and dress codes - just to name a few sections. At the end of it all, players were given a blueprint for the organization's athlete and a clear understanding of professionalism. 

At the close of the meeting, an air of true pride filled the room last night as the Crusaders prepared to begin their crusade for the Colonial Football Association (CFA) Championship. The focus and professionalism of the organization was impeccable, proving that the 2008 Crusaders will truly change the face of Minor League Football.

Fairfield, New Jersey - December 10, 2007 - High Crest Health & Wellness Center signed on today as the corporate sponsors for the 2008 Crusaders season. Managing partner, Neel Bose and his staff were excited about the partnership, stating "It really just made sense to all of us". High Crest will provide a variety of medical services to the team throughout the season.

(Former K. C. Chiefs Wide Receiver, J. J. Johnson)

New Rochelle, NY-November 12, 2007- The Crusaders Minor League Football Club armed their offense today with a powerful weapon  executing the signing of former professional wide receiver, J. J. Johnson. 

J. J. Johnson's  resume includes tenures with the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League (NFL) and in the Canadian Football League (CFL). He briefly attended UCLA before foregoing his college eligibility to pursue a professional career in the NFL. 

After a two and a half year withdrawal from football, Johnson has decided to return as a Crusader.