Four successes to report today: Leonard Russell, Riki Ellison, Marty McInnis, & Ray Fagnant
Leonard Russell played in 6 NFL seasons from 1991 to 1996 for the New England Patriots, Denver Broncos, St. Louis Rams, and San Diego Chargers. In 1991, he was selected as the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year after rushing for 959 yards and 4 touchdowns for the Patriots. In 1993, Russell rushed for 1,088 yards and 7 TDs.
Riki Ellison was the first New Zealand-born player in the NFL. He played 10 seasons for the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Raiders. Ellison won three Super Bowls during his seven years with the 49ers. He played in 124 career games, recording 625 tackles and 5 sacks.
Marty McInnis played in the NHL for the New York Islanders, Calgary Flames, Mighty Ducks of Anaheim and the Boston Bruins. An 8th round selection of the Islanders, 163rd overall at the 1988 NHL Entry Draft, McInnis played three seasons of college hockey with the Boston College Eagles and played with the United States National Team at the 1992 Winter Olympics before turning professional. He scored 170 goals and recorded 420 points in a 12-year professional career and played in two World Championship tournaments where he was a member of the bronze medal-winning American squad in 1996.
Ray Fagnant enjoyed a five-year minor league career in the Pittsburgh Pirates and Boston Red Sox organizations from 1988 - 1991. Since the spring of 1993 he has been the Northeast Regional Scouting Supervisor for the team. He scouts players from all levels, year round and his work has been recognized by the Red Sox as he was the first two-time recipient of the George Digby Award as the Red Sox Scout of the Year (2002 and 2006). Among the professional players he has scouted and signed are Lou Merloni, Manny Declarmen, Craig Hansen, Carl Pavano and Brian Rose.
*Mailing addresses and relevant signing fees are posted on www.sportscollectors.net