2008 Illusion Preview
Illusion Boasts New Coach & Rush of Confidence
January 21, 2008
Riding last year’s 7-1 regular season finish and first-ever playoff appearance, Illusion Head Coach James Reavis will try to catapult 20 returning players and their rush of confidence into another successful season in the National Women’s Football Association. The team will launch its preseason training camp and open tryout sessions this week at the St. Benedict’s Center in Erie...
Owner’s Message
As the Illusion takes the field this season with new-found confidence, I, along with my team, share in the excitement and eagerness to build on last season’s remarkable 7-1 performance.
But I do so with a heavy heart. On Nov. 14, 2007, Illusion teammate Kathleen “Sky” Burick passed away following a courageous, five-year battle with breast cancer. Sky was an exceptionally talented athlete who had visions of one day playing quarterback for the Illusion. Despite frequent medical setbacks and, often ignored, orders from her physicians, Sky never gave up. She practiced with the team, assisted the coaching staff, or just hung out on the sidelines to support her teammates. Through it all, she refused to relinquish her coveted #13 jersey.
Sky’s personal battle against breast cancer paused on Nov. 14, but I would like to respectfully continue her fight and encourage her teammates, Illusion fans and opponents to join me. In honor of Sky, the Illusion will raffle off the game ball during every home contest, and will donate the proceeds to the “Relay for Life,” and “Glimmer of Hope” charities. Links to both organizations are available on our web site.
In addition, the Illusion will participate in, and sponsor events throughout the season to generate awareness and help raise funds for breast cancer research.
On May 31, when we open our 2008 season at Tullio Field, I will also officially retire jersey #13 from the Illusion playing field. I do so with hopes of honoring Sky’s refusal to surrender her number, or to admit defeat to the disease she so valiantly fought.
Mary Butler
Interested in playing for the Illusion? Give it a shot!
Join us for an Open Practice for new players at 7:30 p.m. on Wed. Jan. 30, 2008 at the Saint Benedict's Center, 345 E. 9th St., Erie.
- Click Here for all details.
- Email Info@ErieIllusionFootball.com to request additional information.
Support Erie's Teams!
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Sat. April 26, 2008
at Tree Town Spitfire
Official Sponsor of the Erie Illusion &
the National Women's Football Association
