On the Beat with the 2014 Chicago Bliss

The Chicago Bliss are back!  Make that the 2013 Legends Football League champion Chicago Bliss are back and they are ready to start defending their title.  Their title defense starts this Friday, May 9, against the Los Angeles Temptation at the Sears Centre in Hoffman Estates.

The Temptation had a little bit of a dynasty going in the LFL, winning three consecutive LFL titles.  Last season, the Bliss knocked them out of the playoffs.  The Bliss went on to win the LFL title.

Last October, I attended tryouts for the 2014 Bliss.  Just because they were the reigning champs did not mean that Coach Keith Hac would not try to improve the team.  Hundreds of women turned out and a select handful were invited to their practices starting in January.

I was at that first practice of 2014.  I saw eager rookie hopefuls and determined veterans.  Two-time MVP quarterback Heather Furr was the first to tell me how determined she was to repeat.  "The Rock Star" set the example, and the other veterans felt the same way.  One by one, I heard the same refrain of "Bigger...Faster...Stronger."

Over the last few months, I have seen the veterans get themselves into mid-season form already.  I have seen a definite sharpened focus.  These ladies are not still celebrating 2013.  They are determined to make 2014 even better.

I have also seen the rookies work hard on the various drills.  They started a bit raw, but eager.  Now, despite lacking real game experience, the rookies are ready to make their mark on the field.

Last week, the team held a kickoff party at Gnarly J's in Downers Grove.  Aside from the many fans, their friends at Resistance Pro Wrestling also were there to support the team.  Wrestler Eric St. Vaughn even interviewed a few of the players, along with Coach Hac.

I dare anyone to watch these interviews and not get pumped up about the Bliss.  I have been firmly on the Bliss bandwagon for a while and I still got even more excited for Friday's season opener.

This is serious football.  These woman might be beautiful, but they also want to knock heads.  It's fast-paced, action-packed, good, sound football.

The Temptation want revenge for last season's loss.  The Bliss have no intention of slowing down from last year.  This one is going to be a smashmouth battle.

I will be back here next week with a game recap.  As interesting as my stories are, it won't be nearly as interesting as seeing the game in person.  For what it's worth, I am calling for a 21-14 Bliss victory.

Interview with Coach Keith Hac
Interview with Deena Fagiano
Interview with Nneka Nwani
Interview with Bridget McDonnell
Interview with Jess Price