JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Over midway through their first season in the National Arena League, the Jacksonville Sharks are off to an 8-0 start. In a surprise move, head coach Mark Stoute was relieved of his duties on Tuesday.
“While this move may seem highly irregular to many, it is in the best interest of the Sharks to move in a different direction at this time,” stated Operating Manager Jeff Bouchy. “We wish Coach Stoute the best of luck in his future endeavours.”
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The Sharks wasted little time finding a replacement for Stoute. Also on Tuesday, the Sharks hired Siaha Burley as their third head coach in the franchise's history.
Burley brings 11 years of playing experience as well as 6 years of coaching, including most recently with the Cleveland Gladiators as their Offensive Coordinator. He was also the OC for the Arizona Rattlers (2016), Orlando Predators (2014-2015), Chicago Rush (2013), and was the Wide Receivers coach for Arizona Rattlers (2011).
“I am so fortunate to be given my first opportunity as the Head Coach of the Jacksonville Sharks. I have waited a long time for this moment,” stated Burley. “I would like to thank the Sharks Ownership Group for putting their trust in me. I cannot wait to meet all of the players on this talented roster and finish what has already been started this season.”
During his time as an Offensive Coordinator Burley has coached: the Cleveland Gladiators to an average of 51.8 points per game and placed them third in the division in offensive scoring so far in the 2017 season
“We are extremely excited to have an arena football legend lead our team in the coming years,” stated Operating Manager Jeff Bouchy, “We look forward to his offensive innovation and leadership of our team. I have known Siaha for many years going back to his playing days. I have watched his explosive offenses light up the Sharks over the years. It feels good that he’s finally on the good guy’s side. This is well deserved and we are lucky to have him.”