On the Beat with Coach Mike Hohensee of the Iowa Barnstormers

Recently, I lamented the loss of the Chicago Rush.  Over the last two Arena Football League seasons, I really got into the action.  With no Chicago AFL (for at least two years), I am officially turning my fandom to the Iowa Barnstormers.
Last weekend, I was invited to a tryout day for the Barnstormers at the former practice facility of the Rush.  I could not pass up the opportunity to talk to Mike Hohensee, coach of the barnstormers.
Coach Hohensee has strong ties to the Chicago area.  He coached the Rush from 2001-2008 and again in 2010, guiding the team to the AFL title in 2006.  He also played for the Chicago Bears in 1987.  He moved onto the Philadelphia Soul in 2011 and then to Iowa in 2012.
Coach Hohensee has an impressive resume as a player and coach.  Hohensee threw the first touchdown pass in AFL history.  He was inducted into the AFL Hall of Fame in 2012.  He was the youngest coach in AFL histroy.
I talked to Coach Hohensee about his career, the Rush, the Barnstormers and more.  Coach was very generous with his time and very open with his answers.  It really was a very enjoyable interview for me.  I have always liked Coach Hohensee and now I finally got to have a real talk with him.
The Barnstormers play in Des Moines, IA, which is a bit far for me to travel for every game.  Still, I know I will make the trip for at least a couple games.  With no Rush, I will need an AFL fix and Coach Hohensee has earned my fandom.