The Utah Blaze announced today the signing of DL Joe Akabalu (6-2, 260, Hofstra). Terms of the contract were not disclosed due to team policy. OL Chris Hollie (6-4, 300, Southern) was also activated from the team suspension list. Akabalu played collegiately at Hofstra University. In 2008, he played in ten games recording 19.0 total tackles, ranking third on the defensive line. He also tallied one forced fumble and one fumble recovery. As a sophomore, Akabalu played in seven games, recording 7.5 total tackles, including two for a loss, and a sack. Akabalu played in the first six games of the season tallying 5.0 total tackles. Before being placed on the team suspension list in Week Seven, Hollie played in two games, recording 1.0 total tackle. The Blaze return home for a two-game home stint starting this Friday as they face the Chicago Rush on Saturday, June 12 with kickoff at 7 p.m. The following week, the Tampa Bay Storm come to town to face the Blaze on Saturday, June 19. Single-game tickets can be purchased through www.ticketmaster.com. Group and season tickets are also available by calling 888-99BLAZE or information can be found at www.utblaze.com.
