Finnish champions, the Kuopio Steelers sign All American LB Maurice Wright

The Kuopio Steelers took the first step in building their defense to defend their 2020 title with the signing of All American linebacker Maurice Wright from Northwestern Oklahoma State University (NCAA Div. II).

The 6’2″, 242 pound, 22 year-old Wright, from Luther, Oklahoma, had an outstanding four-year career at Northwestern Oklahoma winding up his senior season being named to two different All-American teams. After closing out the season as the Rangers all-time leading tackler, he also wound up as the Great American Conference’s career solo tackle record holder and the GAC’s single-game tackle holder with 25.

To go with his AP All-American second-team award, he was named the GAC Defensive Player of the Year, first-team All-Super Region Three and D2CCA second-team All-American selection. He finished his four years recording 459 tackles and 38.5 tackles for loss.

Steelers head coach Pekka Utriainen:

“Maurice will be one of the best defenders in the Maple League and will continue our strong legacy of American linebackers from previous years. He is a versatile, modern defender who opponents need to account for not only in the run game but also in the passing game. In addition to his highlights film, I was also impressed by the information I received from elsewhere and my own conversations with the gentleman – Maurice is a positive leader who always demands even more of himself than others. There are also Scandinavian connections, his spouse has Swedish family roots, so no cultural shock is expected.”

Wright is looking forward to the upcoming season:

“I’m a leader on the field. Show a lot in my actions and voice and I have an eye for the game. I’m a versatile athlete that packs a lot of power. The team will see an animal that just loves the game of football. Expectations are to win the Maple League and bring home that trophy, and enjoy the season and build as a leader. I also want to help the community as much as I can, bring a lot of wins to the Kuopio Steelers fans.”

Highlights from Northwestern Oklahoma State