Semi-tough: Triple-A grid team tackles the heat

It is the middle of a hot, humid summer in Maine ... perfect football weather.

At least it is for those adult players in pads practicing at Deering Oaks Park or — soon — playing games at Deering High School. The season is now two weeks old for the Southern Maine Raging Bulls semi-pro gridiron team, which plays in the 11-team Colonial Conference of the New England Football League.

"It's a triple A league," explains Raging Bull's owner and general manager Ronnie Bates. "We are recognized as a feeder program. Basically a stepping stone to the pro leagues like the NFL, CFL and Arena Football."

The roster of 40 ranges from current and former college players to former high school players and guys just wanting to continue to play the sport they love. In this semi-pro league, you don't get paid. Actually the 40 guys on the Raging Bulls each have to pay to play. A fee of $150 covers uniform and other expenses.

But there is the chance of a pro contract. According to owner Ronnie Bates, he receives calls from either the CFL, NFL or Arena Football League on several players, and even a spot on an NFL practice squad could mean a pretty decent paycheck. While It didn't make him rich, current offensive guard Greg Morse actually played Arena Football for several years.

Still, the financial incentives don't tell the whole story.

''Football gets in your blood," said Bates. "You still want to play and be part of a team."

Phil Warren is one of the stars of this year's Raging Bulls. The former Brunswick High running back rushed for 330
yards and four touchdowns in the team's opening day win in Lawrence, Mass. Warren played some college ball at the University of Buffalo. Jeff Pammer is one of the top tacklers in UNH history. Now he is a safety and wide receiver for the Raging Bulls. Lonnie Thomas played college football at Georgia Southern. The former Gray High School standout is one of the top defensive backs in the league.

The Raging Bulls are preparing for their home opener on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. against the Ocean State Vipers at Deering High School. They opened their season with a 41-24 win over the Mill City Maulers. Then last Saturday, the Raging Bulls ended up tying the Worcester Wildcats 34-34.

"We are a smash-mouth football team with a huge offensive line," said Bates. "We will run the ball right at our opponents. For only five dollars for adults and three dollars for students, fans are going to be entertained."

Believe it or not, football is only part of the program with the Raging Bulls. Besides showing up for practices and games, holding down a job or going to school, team rules require players to take part in at least four public service activities. The team helps out several charities like the Ronald McDonald House, Make-A-Wish, and Toys For Tots. "It's a great way for our players to be part of the community," said Bates. "We really want them to realize that life is about a lot more than just football. If you are not committed on and off the field, then I don't want you on my team."

The bottom line is though, the Raging Bulls are playing to win. After several mediocre seasons, players and coaches really believe this is their year.

"We have high expectations," said Bates. "Without a doubt, this is the best team we have ever had."