Mahoning Valley Thunder receiver Mathes signs with the AFL

BOARDMAN — Mahoning Valley Thunder wide receiver DeMarcus Mathes has signed with the Grand Rapids Rampage of the Arena Football League.

Mathes is the first player in Thunder history to sign an AFL contract.

Mathes (6-foot, 200 pounds from Missouri Southern State) led the Thunder in receiving with 1,027 yards on 71 catches. In his rookie season in af2, he appeared in 13 games (all starts) for the Thunder before being placed on injured reserve after a week 15 injury at Louisville. Mathes recorded 17 touchdown receptions and was the first Thunder player in team history to reach 1,000 receiving yards in a season.

Mathes re-signed with the Thunder Oct. 13. The Thunder owns his af2 rights, meaning they are the only af2 team he can play for if he is released by an AFL team in 2008.

“DeMarcus will make an immediate impact with the Rampage,” said Thunder coach Mike Hold. “His speed, athleticism and heart will not only help the team, but his impact in the community will also be noticed. Grand Rapids is getting a special player.”