Flowery Branch – The Atlanta Falcons today named Georgia Force head coach Doug Plank to the coaching staff. Plank will serve as a seasonal coaching assistant and will be assigned to special projects as well as keeping his current head coaching position with the Force.“When you can add a coach of Doug Plank’s caliber, it’s going to strengthen your staff and we are excited to have him join us,” said head coach Mike Smith. “Coach Plank is going to be a tremendous asset and we value his prior NFL experience as a member of the Chicago Bears and his head coaching experience with the Georgia Force.” Plank recently completed his fourth year as head coach of the Georgia Force and has compiled a 47-25 AFL record while guiding the team to an ArenaBowl appearance in 2005. Last season, the Force won their third Southern Division Championship under Plank’s tutelage while earning a playoff berth for the fourth consecutive year. He was named the AFL Coach of the Year on two occasions (2005 and ’07) and pieced together a Force team that set a franchise-best 14-2 record in 2007.The Ohio State graduate who played in three Rose Bowls for renowned head coach Woody Hayes went on to start eight seasons for the Chicago Bears. The Bears historic “46 Defense” was named after Plank’s number and for his aggressive style of play. Plank was also the first Bears rookie to ever lead the team in tackles.
Falcons name Georgia Force head coach Doug Plank to coaching staff
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