The Dresden Monarchs of the German Football League have just given their defense a major boost by signing All-American defensive end/linebacker Daniel Holland for the remainder of the 2017 season. Holland had played for the Berlin Rebels in 2016 and the first four games of 2017.
The 6’3″, 250 lb defensive stalwart led the German league in tackles for loss with 22 in 2016 while also recording 11 sacks, good for seventh overall.
He was a key member of a Rebels defense which helped the club reach the playoffs for the first time in their history. A graduate of East Central University (NCAA Div. II), Holland earned first team Great American Conference honors in 2014. The native of Miami, Florida earned All American honors in both 2014 and 2015.
American Football International had a chance to ask Daniel about playing in Germany and moving over to the Dresden Monarchs.
American Football International: How do you feel about signing with Dresden after being released by the Rebels?
Daniel Holland: Honestly I’m very happy to play for an organization such as Dresden Monarchs. The organization has a great culture of winning when it comes to football. I’m just blessed to still be in the position to play for playoff contender team.
AFI: You had an excellent season in 2016. What do you expect with your new team in 2017?
Holland: The ultimate goal is win each game and finish the season as German Bowl champs and European Champs in 2017.
AFI: What do you think of the level of play in Germany and Europe?
Holland: Well I think the level of football playing overseas pretty good , it a experience that most professional athlete don’t experience.
AFI: How did you find out about playing in Europe in the first place?
Holland: One of my mentors was telling me about about playing football in Europe, because he played in Germany.
AFI: What is your favorite food in Germany?
Holland: Turkish Doner Kebab
AFI: Did you have a chance to travel much in 2016 and if so which countries or cities did you visit?
Holland: I travel to different cities in Germany, I have few more countries on my bucket list.
AFI: What do you bring to the Monarchs?
Holland: I bring a a leadership quality!
The Monarchs and Rebels will face each other on June 25 in what is now shaping up to be a key matchup.
Check out Daniel Holland’s highlights from his 2016 season
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