Germany’s Kiel Baltic Hurricanes re-sign RB Chris McClendon
The Kiel Baltic Hurricanes have re-signed bruising running back Chris McClendon for the 2017 season.
In 2016, the Hurricanes developed into a tough running team to complement their outstanding aerial attack with McClendon gaining 1,700 yards and averaging 113 yards a game. The 5′ 10″, 220 lb native of Rixey, Arkansas played for Oklahoma Panhandle State University (NCAA Div. II). McClendon topped off his college career with 1,254 rushing yards on 171 carries for 15 touchdowns; he also added 146 receiving yards and 134 punt return yards for an all-purpose total of over 1,500 offensive yards for the 2015 season.
Discovered by Kiel head coach Marcus Herford, McClendon is excited to be returning to the Hurricanes.
American Football International: You had a great season in 2016. Why the move back to Kiel?
Chris McClendon: It was the best opportunity I had & I love it in Kiel. The city and the people were great & made me feel at home.
AFI: How did you find out about playing in Europe in the first place?
McClendon: Coach Herford. He was the receivers coach at Oklahoma Panhandle State University during my junior season and he signed me after my pro day in May.
AFI: How did you find the Hurricanes?
McClendon: They found me. Thanks to Coach Herford.
AFI: Did you have a chance to travel in Europe in 2016? If so where?
McClendon: Yes. Me and a couple teammates traveled to Amsterdam. It was an amazing experience.
AFI: Did you have any favorite foods?
McClendon: My favorite food had to be the pizzabrötchen. I loved it.
AFI: What do you bring to the Hurricanes?
McClendon: I bring a player that is able to fill any role on the team win a ring. Whatever the team and coaches ask me to do I simply handle it.
AFI: You made it to the German semifinals last year. What are your expectations for 2017.
McClendon: GFL Champions. Nothing more nothing less.
AFI: Would you recommend playing in Europe to other players?
McClendon: Yes I would. If you get a chance to extend your career after college you should definitely do it even if it’s in Europe. You can travel and see the world while playing the game of football.
Interested in playing American football in overseas?
Register on Europlayers.com.
Europlayers is the largest online database of American football players, teams and coaches. It is a connector, bringing together and introducing athletes to overseas teams. On the site you can begin researching teams around the world. Once you create a profile, you become searchable by hundreds of American football clubs around the world.
