
Wolves survive Novi Sad
4 May 2009
Playoff weekend
13 May 2009The Vukovi running back and a defensive player mostly at linebacker from last year, William Blocker, rejoined the Belgrade team for the rest of the season. The American import was supposed to return from the start of the season, but was unavailable until now, which was one of the reasons the Vukovi signed Brandon McDowell.
Blocker was also a coach for the team last year, which, with the team hiring a new coach before the season, won’t be one of his primary responsibilities this time. Because of that, he didn’t play as much as he could have last year. One of the areas he did contribute greatly, both to their CEFL team and last year’s backup team that played some of the Serbian league games, was as a return man, having success both as a kickoff and punt returner.
With his return, the Vukovi now have three imports on the roster, which is essentially the maximum any team is allowed to have, as far as professional, former college, players go. Though he will bring a lot to the table, it’s still an interesting decision by the team, as McDowell has been highly successful this year as the team’s primary running back. Since he played as a receiver for the Danube Dragons last year, it’s possible he’ll move back to that position, or that Blocker will primarily play on defense and special teams.
Either way, the Vukovi now have a lot of flexibility on their roster, which is a great luxury to have in the league, especially compared to most other teams. They play their next and probably the most important game of the spring a week and a half from now in Budapest, against the Wolves.




