Reading Express GM/Head Coach Bernie Nowotarski announced today that he has signed 3 year starter and AIFA All-Star Linebacker Matt Sola.

Sola will be returning to the Express for his fourth season. “Matty is the heart of this defense and the pulse of our team. He is a leader by example. His stats last season placed him on the first team of the AIFA All-Star Team. Matty had 8.5 sacks, 35 solo tackles, 14 assisted tackles, 3 fumble recoveries, 1 touchdown, 3 safeties, 1 interception, 4 pass break-ups and 5 blocked kicks. It’s stats like those and his team leadership that make Matty one of the best LB’s in this league. He plays at full speed every play, every game and practice and doesn’t let up. He has had some of the most memorable hits in Express history, one this year that sealed a win versus Arizona. On the final play of the game, the Arizona running back had a clear 3 yard path to the end zone, out of nowhere came Matty Sola with a bone crushing, helmet flying hit that ended what looked like the game winning scoring run into a game winning smash mouth tackle and a win for the Express. He is one of the most explosive hitters I have ever seen at any level and I have been to all levels, it’s simple, he gonna stick ya and hard!!” said Nowotarski.

“Matty plays at 6’2” 265lbs, he is a graduate of Reading Central Catholic and Kutztown University and is currently working out of the King Of Prussia and Philadelphia area. I am proud to have Matty on our squad and Berks County is proud of this home grown talent and community commitment. He is a leader on and off the field here in Berks County,” commented Nowotarski.

Reading Express GM/Head Coach Bernie Nowotarski announced today that he has signed returning vets Mark Stout and Chris Nunn.

“I am glad to see that Mark just wasn’t quite ready to retire yet and that Chris wants to stay here in Reading. The other side to this story is that both these guys have relocated here and found jobs in the Reading/Berks area related to their college degrees,” commented Nowotarski. “This isn’t something that unfamiliar here. Four or five guys last year stayed in Reading after the season and found jobs in their field of interest. It’s great for our team and it also shows our community backing and opportunities here with The Express.”

Stout (6’8” 320lbs from Sacramento State) will be in his fourth season with The Express, he is one of several players who have been here from the start of this franchise. Nunn (6’10” 370lbs from Glenville State) will be in his second season with The Express. “It’s great to see both players wanting to return and continue playing football for The Express as well as finding places to live right here in Berks County and jobs that they enjoy, said Nowotarski. “With the trend of our out of town players staying in the area after the season, we (The Express) are in the process of securing lifting facilities for the players during the off-season. This in no way will interfere with our existing lifting arrangements we have for our players during the season.”

Do you want to be a part of the best dance team in the AIFA!? Then come to the 2009 Smokin Hot Steam Team camp. The two days of camp will be Saturday, September 27 and Sunday, September 28 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Dance Gallery (3725 Kutztown Road  Laureldale, PA 19605).  You must be present at camp on both days in order to be considered for the final audition.  The final audition will be held on Saturday, October 4 at 11 a.m. at the Berkshire Mall in Wyomissing.  You must pre-register for the camp by downloading the audition form below, or stopping by the Express office to fill one out.  In addition, you must pay the camp registration cost BEFORE Saturday, September 27.  The cost is $25 for returning Smokin’ Hot Steam Team members and $50 for newcomers.  The cost is payable by cash or credit card ONLY!  You can pay the registration fee by calling or the Express office at 610-372-PASS (7277). You can also stop by the Express office, which is located at 350 Bern Street in Reading.  You must be at least 18 years old in order to register. 

In addition to looking for talented dancers to perform at all Express home games, the Express is also looking for well-spoken individuals with a great personality to be part of the Steam Team Ambassadors.  This group will be involved in the public relations aspect of the Steam Team including on-field promotions as well as off-field public appearances.

If you have any questions or would like more information about the 2009 Smokin’ Hot Steam Team, please call the Express office at 610-372-PASS (7277).