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The Florida Firecats signed Kevin Bouis to a one-year contract extension that ties him to the arenafootball2 league franchise through the 2009 season, the team announced Thursday.

During his four-year tenure as head coach, Bouis has guided the Firecats to a 50-20 overall record.

“I’m excited to be back for the ’09 season,” Bouis said in a team release. “This will be my eighth year with the organization, fifth as head coach and I couldn’t be happier. Florida is where I want to be and I’m ready to get back to work”

Bouis has been with the team since 2002. His first three seasons were spent as defensive coordinator before taking over as head coach in 2005.

Defense has been the Firecats’ calling card every season under his leadership. Florida has surrendered an average of 39.7 points per game, among the af2’s best, from 2002-2008.

“Kevin’s record speaks for itself,” Firecats president and general manager Chris Vallozzi said. “He has gotten to 50 wins faster than any coach with one team. He’s won three division titles and led us to two conference appearances. He has continued the great winning tradition we have here and we are looking forward to another championship season under his leadership.”

Bouis goes right back to work preparing for next season as the team conducts it’s first open tryout on Nov. 1 at Estero High School.

The tryout is open to all players and positions. Players are required to participate in a Pro-Style combine, outdoors on natural grass. Proper workout attire is required and cleats are recommended. Registration starts at 10 a.m. and the tryout begins at 11 a.m.

A $75 cash-only registration fee is due the day of the tryout. Players are encouraged to preregister by calling the Firecats office at 239-390-2287 or by online at www.FloridaFirecats.com.