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Former Florida coach makes transition to XFL
By David Fox
Gainesville, Florida (U-WIRE) -- Orlando Rage center Cal Dixon only needed one sign to prove the newly formed XFL was legitimate. When former Florida football coach Galen Hall signed as the coach for the Rage, the former UF center knew the league was the "real deal." "I didn't know what to expect with the XFL," Dixon said. "I knew [Hall] would not get involved with something that was hokey or choreographed." After coaching for the Rhein (Germany) Fire in NFL Europe since 1995, Hall decided to return home to coach in Florida. Hall, who has lived in Oviedo for the past 11 years, said the XFL is an ideal coaching situation, with quality players and its season beginning immediately after the Super Bowl. "The league was exactly what I thought it would be," said Hall, following the 33-29 victory against the Chicago Enforcers on Saturday. "I think we've got some skilled people that are pretty good. I think it's going to be a very entertaining league." Dixon, who played for UF from 1988 through 1991, said Hall's no-nonsense personality will be a great asset to the Rage. "He's just such a level-headed, even-keeled coach," said Dixon, who played for Hall in his freshman season as a Gator. "He doesn't get overly emotional one way or another. He just keeps his composure, and I have the utmost respect for him, and every word he says I believe is the truth." Former UF quarterback Danny Wuerffel won the World Bowl championship with Hall and the Fire last spring. Wuerffel expects him to succeed in the XFL. Wuerffel said he believes Hall's ability to relate with players will translate into more success with the Rage. "He was Coach of the Year several times in Europe, so I expect him to do well," Wuerffel said. "He reminded me of a grandfather. He was wise, and you just felt comfortable with him. He'd tell you, 'This is what you've got to do to win,' and you'd believe him." With its on-field reporters and coach microphones, the XFL promises to bring the fans closer to the game. However, Hall said he did not believe it was too much of a distraction until a reporter attempted an interview late in the fourth quarter. "I saw a couple interviews, and I thought they were in good taste, except when they try to get me while I'm trying to decide what to do," he joked. "But I think the fans got what we were trying to get across." Hall said he hopes XFL fans will notice the players' quality and effort. "I think the Orlando people are going to get behind this team, and the Chicago people will get behind theirs, and the same everywhere else," he said. "[The reaction] is going to be very positive." Hall said the team that stays healthiest and receives the best quarterback production will go the furthest in the XFL. He said every team in the league is even, and that he looks forward to competing for a title. Hall coached the Gators from 1984 through 1989, compiling a 40-18-1 record. During his tenure, he led UF to consecutive Southeastern Conference championships, and he was named the Associated Press Coach of the Year in 1984. Since leaving UF, Hall led the Orlando Thunder of the World League to a World Bowl appearance in 1993. In seven seasons with the Fire, Hall coached the team to titles in 1998 and 2000. He led them to three championship games. Hall's 44 NFL Europe career wins are the second most in league history. Hall said the XFL will offer fans a quality league.
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