Team Australia QB To Start for Sweden’s Uppsala 86ers

Sweden’s Uppsala 86ers, 2015 Swedish semi-finalists, have re-signed Team Australia quarterback Jared Stegman. Stegman has been promoted to starter after the departure of Jeff Welsh. Stegman was on the 2015 roster as the back up while also serving as receiver and kick returner.

The versatile Stegman (6’2″, 210 lb), gained worldwide recognition at the IFAF World Championships in Canton, Ohio, piloting Australia to a fifth place finish, at times in spectacular fashion.

Uppsala head coach Tom Cudney:

“Jared is focused and ready to take the helm. I’m confident that he will master our offense. Our Director of Sports, Per Nilsen and I have been working hard to identify the strengths of our team as well as recognize our needs. We feel that we have found some players that will enhance our offense and give Jared the weapons that he needs to be successful!

I feel that he is a natural leader. He is very athletic and possesses a very high football IQ. All of these qualities are what you hope for in your QB! I am certain that he is the type of player that will make everyone around him better! “

Stegman himself is happy for the opportunity. In 2015, he was used sparingly at quarterback as Welsh had a very good season.

“I’m excited and confident. It’s a great opportunity and I’m happy with my preparation so far coming into the season.”

Team Australia and Dresden Monarchs head coach John Leijten:

“I have watched Jared since 2010 when he tried out for Team Australia. He is a great athlete, very tenacious. He was our true leader at the world championships last year.”

Stegman will have targets including speedy receiver, kick and punt returner Marcus Beaurem from Tiffin University (Div. II).

According to general manager Per Nilsen, Beaurem is an excellent receiver:

“Marcus will replace Strahinja Stepovic, who has moved to a team in Turkey. He maybe one of the best American receivers we have seen play in Sweden.”

The final import signing for Uppsala is linebacker/safety Jake Adelman from Friends University (NAIA) in Kansas. The 6’2″ 220 lb California native recorded 100 tackles for the Falcons in his career.

Nilsen:

“Jake has qualities that allow him to play both offense and defense. The only worry is that he may be called to an NFL tryout in June-July. But the problem we deal then.”