Bernie
Nowotarski
Introducing Bernie Nowotarski, an esteemed coach and accomplished athlete with a remarkable journey through the world of sports. Bernie’s impressive career began when he graduated from Exeter High School in 1978, and he continued his pursuit of excellence at Kutztown University.
Bernie stands as a true legend, earning a distinguished place in the Hall of Fame for both Exeter and Kutztown for his prowess in three different sports. His exceptional talents led him to the coveted status of College All-American in both football and track. Taking his skills to the professional arena, Bernie embarked on a memorable NFL journey, showcasing his abilities with the Seattle Seahawks and Detroit Lions in 1982, and later with the Michigan Panthers in the original USFL.
Transitioning from player to coach, Bernie made his mark on the arena football scene in 2005 as an Assistant Coach for the Reading Express. In 2008, he ascended to the position of General Manager and Head Coach, a role in which he proudly guided the team to secure the city of Reading’s first professional National Championship in 2009. Bernie’s coaching expertise extended to the Harrisburg Stampede in 2010, where he orchestrated another championship victory in 2013.
In 2015, Bernie took on the role of Defensive Coordinator with the Lehigh Valley Steelhawks, further solidifying his reputation as a strategic mastermind in arena football. His illustrious journey brought him to the Philadelphia Soul, where he served as the Defensive Back and Special Teams Coach, contributing significantly to back-to-back World Championships in 2016 and 2017.
Today, Bernie’s dedication to sports continues as he serves as a full-time Athletic Director at the Olivet’s Boys and Girls Club, imparting his knowledge and passion for athletics to the next generation. It is with great pride and humility that Bernie embarks on his latest chapter, returning to the AIF, the league where it all began, and accepting the prestigious position of Head Coach for the Harrisburg Stampede. With a remarkable record of 106-21, Bernie Nowotarski is poised to lead the Stampede to new heights in the world of arena football.
HARRISBURG STAMPEDEOUR COACHES
Rick Marsilio – Offensive Coordinator – rick@hbgstampede.com
Offensive Guru Coming back as OC
Rick Marsilio most recently served as the Head Coach and Assistant General Manager of the NY Streets of the National Arena League (NAL). Rick brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in football operations and coaching. Rick also was the Head Coach of the York Capitals. Rick was named Head Coach nine days before the first game. Rick went right to work and used those nine days to strategically rebuild the team and staff. His team then went on to an undefeated season (10-0), leading the league in every statistical category, on its way to the American Indoor Football (AIF) National Championship.
Prior to this position, Rick was the Assistant General Manager, Assistant Head Coach, and Offensive Coordinator for the Harrisburg Stampede. Rick was on the staff in Harrisburg for eight years, serving as Assistant Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator of the 2013 AIF National Champions. Coach Marsilio was the only staff member who had been with the Stampede since its inception (2007). Rick was first hired as the QB/WR coach. After the 2011 season, Rick was promoted to the position of Assistant HC and OC.
Rick’s offense was consistently rated as one of the top-producing offenses in all of arena football and produced All-League Players each season, as well as several MVPs.
Rick played college football as a QB at the University of Akron (1986-1987) and Towson State University (1988-1990). Rick then signed a professional contract and played in Europe. Born in Hazleton, PA., to Joe and Mary Ann Marsilio, Rick attended Marian Catholic High School in Hometown, Pa. After graduation from Marian, Marsilio received a full athletic scholarship to play football at the University of Akron, under former Notre Dame Coach Gerry Faust.
Rick Marsilio is married to Debi and they are the proud parents of Nick, a free-lance Outdoor Content Creator, and Derek, a student-athlete at Jacksonville University.
Jaimie Thomas – Offensive Line and Defensive Line
Jaimie Thomas is a native of Harrisburg, PA where he attended Bishop McDevitt High School and was one of the linemen who opened large holes for then RB LeSean “Shady” McCoy. Jaimie played collegiately at The University of Maryland where he started 30 of 42 possible games and was named Honorable Mention All ACC in 2008. In 2009, Jaimie was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the 7th round. He was a member of the 2009 Colts team who represented the AFC in Super Bowl XLIV, alongside Peyton Manning. Jaimie would play with Indianapolis for 3 seasons before suffering a neck injury that ended his playing career.
“Coach Jaimie” has been training and coaching Offensive and Defensive Lineman since 2011; with stops in High School (Bishop McDevitt, Harrisburg, CD East, and Susquehanna) College (Clarion University and Dickinson College) and two NFL Internships with the Indianapolis Colts and Houston Texans.