(Tupelo, MS) - The Mississippi MudCats of the American Indoor Football Association announced that two of their veteran leaders and Mississippi natives are returning for the upcoming 2008 season.

Rico McDonald (5’10”- 210) a Ripley, MS native; is a returning Running Back, Wide Receiver and Defensive Back for the MudCats. McDonald was a former 1st Team
All State Player for Mississippi when he played at Ripley High School. McDonald played collegiate football at Delta State University where he amassed 5,500 yards and 54 touchdowns and is the all time leading rusher in the history of Delta State Football. He is a three year veteran with Arena Football and is a Coach and Teacher at Ripley High School. This will be his second season with the Mississippi MudCats.

Co-Offensive Coordinator / Player Personnel Coach, Kirk Brossard said, “Rico is an all purpose player that we can line up on either side of the ball and he immediately stands out, we are extremely excited to have him back.”

When Rico was asked about playing again with the MudCats, he said, “I feel really good about coming back with the core of guys that we have from last years 12 – 4 team, I think that we have a shot at winning it all and I’m excited about getting another opportunity to play with the guys, and to work with the MudCat staff and organization.” He also noted that “this could be the year for the City of Tupelo and the Mississippi Mudcats.”

Travis Johnson (6’ 1” – 190) a Shannon, MS native; is a returning Defensive Back for the MudCats. Johnson was a former Super Prep All American when he was at Shannon High School and played collegiate football at the University of Mississippi, where he was a 1st Team SEC selection from 2002 to 2005. Johnson is a returning starter for the MudCats and had 8 interceptions and 43 tackles last season and currently lives in Tupelo. This will be his second season playing with the Mississippi MudCats. “Travis is an impact player on Defense” said Co-Offensive Coordinator/ Player Personnel Coach, Kirk Brossard, “It is great to bring back some experience in the Defensive Back Field, I believe this is one of the keys to the success of Arena Football and Travis provides the veteran leadership and experience needed.”