Kirkland,6-0 170,finished his collegiate career at Portland State University in 2007 under the tutelage of Head Coach Jerry Glanville. In only two years as a Viking, Kirkland recorded 122 receptions – with 17 touchdowns – for 1,592 yards. After his senior season, he was named 1^st team All Big-Sky. Prior to his experience at PSU, Kirkland attended UNLV where he accumulated 759 all-purpose yards as a receiver, punt returner, and rusher. As a freshman, Kirkland led the Mountain West Conference with 25 punt returns for 314 yards – including a 75-yard punt return.

 

“He caught a lot of balls in college and that was the first thing that caught our eye,” Head Coach Adam Shackleford said. “He’s a guy that makes plays; whether its hand-offs, receptions, or kick-returns. He is dangerous every time he touches the ball.”

 

Owens, 6-5 280, spent his collegiate career at Fairmont State University. As a Fighting Falcon, Owens racked up 145 tackles – including 16 sacks – 15 pass break-ups and seven fumble recoveries over his four-year career. These numbers generated some NFL interest after Owens completed his collegiate career in 2007. He signed as a free-agent with the New York Jets and was released shortly before the season.

 

“He has a good combination of work ethic, speed and power. He’s a pretty impressive specimen,” Shackleford explained. “He’s a little bit different than anyone we have ever had. It is very seldom to find a player with his size at 6-5 who can do the kind of things that he can do.”

 

With the addition of Kirkland and Owens, the Shock’s 2009 roster already stands at six players.

 

Season ticket reservations for the defending National Conference Champion Shock can be placed now by calling (509) 242 7462.