FROSTBURG, Md. - Former Frostburg State football players Fred Howze and Andre Dixon aren’t done with their playing careers just yet as the two will be suiting up this spring (2009) with the new Indoor Football League (IFL).

Both from Upper Marlboro, Md., Howze has signed a contract to play for the Abilene Ruff Riders, in Abilene Texas while Dixon will be joining the Omaha Beef this season in Omaha, Neb.

The IFL, which consists of 19 teams after the United Indoor Football Association and the Intense Football League merged late last summer, will begin its inaugural season in 2009 with a 14-game regular season schedule that kicks off in mid-March. The IFL as been divided into two conferences (Intense and United) and a total of four divisions.

Howze, a three-year starter and two-time All-Atlantic Central Football Conference selection for the Bobcats, will compete for time at wide receiver for the Ruff Riders. Howze finished his Frostburg State career with 107 receptions, 1,247 yards and three touchdowns. He ended his collegiate playing career with at least one reception in 30-straight games. The Ruff Riders finished the 2008 season 5-9 overall while a member of the Intense Football League.

Dixon, an Honorable Mention All-ACFC honoree as a senior, will be looking to secure a spot at quarterback for the Beef this season but could also be used as a utility player due to his athleticism. Dixon was a dual-threat for the Bobcats with both his throwing and running ability. During his senior year with FSU, he threw for 813 yards and five touchdowns while he ran for 404 yards and another five scores. He finished his career with 15 total touchdowns. Omaha finished the 2008 season with a 10-5 while a member of the UIF.