Matt Esser Returns to the Phoenix

January 15, 2020

PHILADELPHIA —The Philadelphia Phoenix announce the return of veteran Matt Esser for the 2020 season. His career with the Phoenix dates back to 2013, when the franchise adopted the Phoenix name and secured their only playoff appearance to date. Coming into his fifth AUDL season, the shake up of the divisional realignment has put Esser’s sights on a second AUDL postseason appearance. “As a player I want to help lead the team to a division playoff game, and develop defensive schemes that will disrupt the offenses we expect to face in the Atlantic,” said Esser. “I am very excited to be signing with the Phoenix this year. Our program is in the midst of a growth spurt, not only with talented players, but also as an organization. We are going to turn some heads with some very exciting wins against new opponents.”

At 5-foot-10 and 200 pounds, Esser is known as a physical defensive presence on the AUDL field, recognized for out-positioning and overwhelming downfield matchups. He leads the team in all-time blocks (63), among other records tallied during his long career with the Phoenix. “Esser is a gifted, natural athlete and competitor. His confidence and his physical strength are invaluable assets to the defense,” said General Manager, Jeff George, “People know him for his tough defense, but overlook his outstanding throwing ability and what he brings to the other side of the disc. Esser’s a great teammate, he is fearless and his larger-than-life personality is icing on the cake.”

Get your 2020 Season Tickets to see the Phoenix take flight this spring, on sale now.