Arena Football: League Honors 'Sharks Pair Raccioppi and DeMaise Receive Player of the Week Honors Tuesday, April 27, 2004 By Matthew Gionta Atlantic City Cardsharks Correspondent Two CardSharks received Player of the Week honors from the National Indoor Football League this week. CardSharks Quarterback Tony Racioppi was named Atlantic Conference Co-Offensive Player of the Week for his efforts in the loss to Fort Wayne. James "Rocco" DeMaise was named Special Teams Player of the Week for the Atlantic Conference this week as well. Racioppi went 28 for 42 on the evening with 279 yards passing. Racioppi headed the second half offensive burst by the ‘Sharks with 6 touchdowns in the air, and even added another one on the ground. “Tony is just starting to become acclimated to the indoor game,” said Coach Siani. “We look for him to continue to progress and become a real threat in the Atlantic Conference this season.” DeMaise’s special teams performance helped to spur the Atlantic City comeback in the second half. Rocco returned 5 kickoffs for a total of 130 yards, including a spectacular 46 yard kickoff return for a touchdown. “Rocco’s veteran leadership on the field and in the locker room has been a big punch for our young team. He does anything we ask him to do and he does it well,” stated Siani. The CardSharks are on the road again next week, with a visit to the defending champion Ohio Valley Greyhounds. Atlantic City will come home to Boardwalk Hall on May 8th at 7:30 PM to play their second of seven home games against rival Staten Island.

©2004 South Jersey Sports Online Inc.