Other Sports
Spielman tabbed to lead Destroyers
By The Source
Aug 4, 2004

Columbus, OH (Sports Network) - The Arena Football League's Columbus Destroyers announced Wednesday that Chris Spielman will be the team's new head coach and general manager. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Spielman served as director of football operations during the 2004 season that saw the Destroyers compile a 6-10 record. It was the club's first season in Columbus after five years in Buffalo.

Spielman was a standout during his own playing career, which included two All- American and three All-Big Ten campaigns as a linebacker for Ohio State. His professional career was highlighted by four trips to the NFL's Pro Bowl before his retirement in 1999. Spielman was selected No. 29 overall in the 1988 draft by the Detroit Lions, and also spent time with the Buffalo Bills and Cleveland Browns.

"Even since I was young, I have had coaching in my blood," said Spielman. "I know this is the right opportunity for me at this point in my life and look forward to the challenges that being a head coach in the Arena Football League will bring."

The Destroyers also announced that former head coach Earle Bruce will stay with the organization as Vice President of Football Operations.

Columbus is the second AFL team to hire a new head coach this offseason. On July 30 the Georgia Force introduced Doug Plank as its head coach.