News
Cheyney Alumni Still Playing Football
May 5, 2011
Daryl Watson and Jon Mitchell
Jon Mitchell and Daryl Watson are living their dream of playing professional football. Mitchell and Watson are both playing for the Lehigh Valley Steelhawks of the Indoor Football League (IFL). The IFL consists of 22 teams from across the country.
“It was great to see Cheyney represented at the professional level of football. Jon and Daryl were two of the three offensive linemen that played for the Steelhawks. Daryl also saw some time in goalline defense. They both played very well and showed that Cheyney players can play and make an impact at the next level,” commented Cheyney Defensive Coordinator Ken Lockard. “I am very proud of both of them for their continued success on the football field and in life.”
Mitchell played for Cheyney during the 2009 while Watson wore the blue and white from 2004-07.
“Playing indoors is a lot different from outdoors,” commented Mitchell. “It’s a lot faster. I enjoy playing with a bunch of guys who have the same chip on their shoulder….to use this as a stepping stone to play at a higher level.”
Mitchell got signed by the Steelhawks after he worked out for the Philadelphia Soul. “During my workout with the Soul, Steelhawks head Coach Rich Britt was present and liked what he saw, continued Mitchell. I signed a contract in October and camp began in February. I earned a starting spot on the offensive line and have been there every game since the season began.”
“I love this game,” stated Watson. “Playing in this arena is an opportunity to prove myself to others. There is talent out there that does not get chance. I’m grateful for the opportunity."
Just like Mitchell, he is using this as hopefully a stepping stone for something bigger. His goal is to play in the NFL and he is hoping this will help give him the opportunity.
The season runs from mid-February to mid-June. They have three home games this month. On May 8 the Steelhawks will face intrastate rival Reading. They also play home games on May 21 and 28 against the Fairbanks Grizzles and the Richmond Revolution. All home games are played at the Stabler Arena on the campus of Lehigh University in Bethlehem.
