Los Angeles Avengers - Arena Football League (AFL) - Chris Jackson- On MLN Sports Zone

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Offensive Specialist Chris Jackson torches AFL defenses and sparks the L.A. Avengers high-octane offense.

02.10.04 – The Los Angeles Avengers' all-time leading receiver and scorer, offensive specialist Chris Jackson (6-2, 204, Washington State), returns for his fifth season in 2004 as one of the featured weapons of Avengers explosive offense.

Last season, Jackson (6-2, 204, Washington State), was named the AFL's 2003 Offensive Player of the Year, having already earned AFL Rookie of the Year honors in 2000.

At 28, Jackson is the only 'original Avenger' remaining from the inaugural season in 2000 and continues to play a key role in the Avengers offense, recording seven receptions for 96 yards and two touchdowns in the Avengers' 51-32 opening week win against the Arizona Rattlers on Sunday. Jackson also threw for a score, connecting with wide receiver/defensive back Kevin Ingram.

Jackson and the high-octane Avengers (1-0) face the electrifying offense of the Las Vegas Gladiators (0-1) in an old-fashioned Western Division shootout, at the Thomas and Mack Center, on Saturday, February 14.

Chris recently took some time off from the field to participate in a question and answer session:

Q: When was the first time you ever played football?
A: The first time I played football was 1994. I was 19 years old, in junior college at Orange Coast College. I considered myself a fast runner so I tried out at wide receiver.

Q: Do you play any other sports?
A: Yes, I played basketball and ran track in high school and college. On the court, I was a point guard. In track, I participated in the long and triple jump.
[Editors Note: At Mater Dei High School (Santa Ana, Calif.), Jackson played in a state championship basketball game, but lost to a team led by Jason Kidd of the NBA's New Jersey Nets.]

Q: How does the AFL compare/differ from college football?
A: The biggest difference in the AFL is the dimensions of the field. It is much faster and caters to offense. And then, there's the surrounding wall.

Q: What is your pre-game ritual?
A: I enjoy reading my bible before every game. As far as physical preparation, I am a big part of (wide receiver/linebacker) Greg Hopkins' pre-game ritual, where I do a series of routes with him while (quarterback) Tony Graziani throws us the ball.

Q: What are your eating habits?
A: I have a good eating habit since my wife and I cook pretty healthy meals for our children. That keeps my diet in check. The only time I really eat junk food is when I go on road trips.

Q: What kind of music do you listen to?
A: I enjoy R&B and Hip Hop. My favorite artists include Jay-Z and Tupac.

Q: What song or artist get you fired up before a game?
A: Anything with heavy radio rotation or the latest dance club hit.

Q: What is your favorite sport movie?
A: It would have to be the 1987 movie Hoosiers, starring Gene Hackman and Dennis Hopper. I like the small town story since I come from a big city.

Q: Describe your characteristics on and off the football field.
A: On the field, I would have to say my teammates like my sense of humor. I joke around often, sometimes even in the huddle, but I know when to keep it serious. Off the field, I'm a loving father of three and a devoted husband, so I'm less of a jokester at home.

Q: Are your children fans of Arena Football?
A: Yes, big time. My three sons (Almani, Deyton and Justus) love the game.

Q: What makes you a good teammate?
A: My teammates like the fact that my personality is versatile and I get along with everyone. I'll never turn my back on anyone and adapt very well to my surroundings. I'm sort of like a chameleon.

Q: What would you be doing if you weren't playing in the AFL?
A: That's hard to say. I have my license to sell life insurance so that would be a strong option. If not, I see myself being an entrepreneur of some sort.

Q: Where do you see yourself in five years?
A: Hopefully, if I stay healthy and exercise accordingly, I see myself continuing my football career in L.A. with the Avengers.

Q: What two AFL teams would you like to see in the ArenaBowl this year?
A: Well, obviously, I would like my team to be in the big game. If I were to pick an opponent; it would have to be the (San Jose) SaberCats. I would like a chance to redeem ourselves from all of the losses we suffered from them in the past.