Former Comsewogue Football Player Signs With Utah Blaze

Former Comsewogue football standout Joe Lopez has come to terms with the Utah Blaze of the Arena Football League. The 6-0, 200-pound cornerback and 2011 SUNY Cortland graduate made his professional debut on July 16 against the New Orleans Voodoo a game won by the Blaze 62-58 in Salt Lake City.

Utah wraps-up their 2011 season on Friday July 22 against the Cleveland Gladiators. The Blaze are currently 8-9 in third place of the Western Division of the National Conference of the AFL.

Lopez played four years for Cortland and started his final three years culminating in a stellar senior season this past year, a season in which he tied a school record with eight interceptions and by intercepting a pass in six consecutive games.

Still, upon graduation (with a degree in communications and minor in computer applications) he had few offers to turn pro. “My agent had some contact with the Green Bay Packers and the Seattle Seahawks but they never called,” he said. “I wanted to keep playing ball. It was an up and down road.”

That road included tryouts and showcases with teams from different leagues. “Finally four weeks ago Utah called me and asked me to come in for a workout,” said Lopez. “It’s just sad that they called so late. But I have no complaints. The coach has already expressed an interest in bringing me back for next year.”

Unlike the National Football League, the AFL offers their players a base salary with a one year commitment. But it is the experience of playing at a level of professional football that keeps Lopez motivated. “I love it,” he said. “It’s a completely different animal but in the end it’s still football. The best part is the fans, they’re right in the game with you. It’s the experience of being a professional athlete and the opportunity to play at the highest level possible. For me it’s a dream come true.”

But following Friday’s game against Cleveland, Lopez will find himself on the outside looking in again. But is it the end of his career?

Perhaps not. “Ever since I was a kid I always wanted to do what they did on TV,” recounted Lopez. “I think that with a lot of hard work and determination I can get to the next level.”

If not there may well be a spot for him on next year’s Blaze squad. In his first game as a professional Lopez made an impact. He had three unassisted tackles, broke up a pass play and had one assisted tackle in the win over New Orleans. Another positive game this week could give him the momentum to be resigned for 2012.

Maybe his two-game professional tenure will be the springboard Lopez needs to finally take that next step.