04/27/2017 10:16 AM -

JACKSONVILLE – The Jacksonville Sharks announced today that defensive back David Hyland will be signed to the Jacksonville roster.



Hyland (6’0”,190) joined Jacksonville in 2016 after helping the San Jose Sabercats win the ArenaBowl XXVIII game against the Sharks. Hyland played a pivotal role in Sabercats victory as he punished the Sharks with back to back touchdowns, one off a tipped passed thrown by Tommy Grady that he returned for a touchdown the other on special teams after catching a bar-ball for his second score putting the Sabercats ahead in the 48-33 in the third quarter. The Sharks would fall to Sabercats in Stockton, CA 68-47 in ArenaBowl XXVIII.



During the 2016 season as a Shark, Hyland play on both defense and special teams making 79 total tackles, 10 pass deflections and two forced fumbles and two interceptions. As a kicker returner for the Sharks Hyland returned 44 kicks for a total of 604 yards. In a win against Portland Steel, Hyland helped ice the game with a 50 yard pick six.



In 2015, Hyland logged 95 tackles and 10 interceptions in 16 games under the San Jose Sabercats. The ArenaBowl XXVIII Defensive Player of the Game and Playmaker of the Game was also named Al Lucas AFL Pulse Hero Award winner for his community service efforts.



The AFL’s six-year veteran has also played for the Oklahoma City Yard Dawgz and the Utah Blaze. During his professional career, Hyland accumulated 374.5 total tackles, 302 solo tackles, 25 interceptions, 15 fumble recoveries and five forced fumbles.



Hyland attended Morehead State University where he was named First Team All-PFL three times. He played in 44 games, recorded 167 tackles and broke a school record with 21 interceptions. Hyland set the Division I-AA record for career pass breakups with 61 and holds the record for the longest interception return at Morehead State.



A native of Woodstock, Georgia, Hyland played wide receiver and defensive back at Etowah High School. During his time at Etowah, Hyland was inducted into The Gridiron Club Hall of Fame in Cherokee, GA.



About the Jacksonville Sharks



The Jacksonville Sharks are members of the National Arena League (NAL). The ArenaBowl XXIV and four-time South Division Champions are presented by Sea Best Seafood and play all home games on Sea Best Field at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena. Sharks Nation Memberships for the 2017 season are now available. Shark Nation Memberships start as low as $99. To become a Shark Nation member or for more information please call (904) 621-0700. Follow the Sharks on facebook at facebook.com/jaxsharks and on Twitter @jaxsharks, as well as the Attack Dance Team at facebook.com/sharkattackdance and Chum at facebook.com/chumsharks.