DES MOINES – The Iowa Barnstormers have signed 2015 First Team All-IFL defensive back Jamie Bender, Head Coach Wooten announced today.

Bender (5-11, 205, University of Alabama at Birmingham) joins the Iowa Barnstormers for his third season in the Indoor Football League (IFL) and his first season with the team. Bender began his IFL career in 2015 with the Green Bay Blizzard. In 13 games, Bender collected 65 solo tackles, 18 assists, 8 interceptions, and 2 fumble recoveries earning him Team MVP and league honors as First Team All-IFL. At the conclusion of the 2015 season, Bender's hard work earned him a second workout with the Green Bay Packers. In 2016, Bender appeared in 6 games with the Blizzard collecting 28 solo tackles, 9 assists, 2 interceptions, and 2 touchdowns before being traded to the Nebraska Danger where he finished out the season.

Collegiately, Bender attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham for two years. During his two seasons with the Blazers, Bender started in all 24 games and racked up 213 total tackles ranking 16th on UAB's career tackles list.

"Bender is a guy that knows the IFL," said Coach Wooten. "He is a great leader and a great player. Having him on our roster will make our secondary stronger. We are heading in the right direction."