Reading Express football team to host high school quarterback challenge

The Reading Express indoor pro football team, along with partner Berks Technical Institute (BTI), announced today the First Annual Quarterback Challenge, which pits area high school quarterbacks against each other in a unique throwing competition.

The quarterback challenge will take place during halftime of the Reading Express' season-opener against the Lehigh Valley Steelhawks on Saturday, Feb. 26, in the Sovereign Center, Reading, Pa.

The quarterback challenge is part of the Reading Express' High School Senior Night with BTI.

Announcements are forthcoming on the high school quarterbacks that will be participating in this first quarterback challenge.

The challenge is of significant interest to Reading Express assistant GM/head coach Chris Thompson.

Thompson was a quarterback at the high school (Manheim Central), college (Bloomsburg University) and professional level. He played his pro ball with the af2's Cape Fear Wildcats and, coincidentally, the Reading Express.

"We're obviously excited simply because it's our home opener, but the Quarterback Challenge event definitely makes things more interesting," said Thompson.

"I vividly remember how exciting it was to be a quarterback in high school. Having this opportunity to create a showcase event for today's high school quarterbacks is awesome. I'm looking forward to this being an annual competition."

BTI is raising the stakes for the Quarterback Challenge. The winning quarterback's athletic department will receive a $200 scholarship donation.

"We are thrilled to partner with the Reading Express and the high school quarterback challenge is the icing on the cake," said Joe Reichard, BTI Campus Director.

"Getting involved in sports plays a vital role in the development of young adults and we want to support our youth in any way that we can."

Reading Express Indoor Professional Football will begin the 2011 season on Saturday, February 26, on The Reading Hospital Medical Group Field at Sovereign Center against the Lehigh Valley Steelhawks.

Tickets are now on sale at www.expressindoorfootball.com, or you can call 610.372.PASS (7277) to order.