The San Diego Strike Force is a professional indoor American football team based in San Diego, California. The team was announced in 2018 as a member of the Indoor Football League (IFL) and began play in 2019. The Strike Force plays their home games at the Pechanga Arena in San Diego's Midway district. The team's ownership group is led by Roy Choi, a local businessman and entrepreneur.
Team History
The San Diego Strike Force was established in 2018, filling a void in the city’s sports landscape left by the departure of the San Diego Chargers, a National Football League (NFL) team that relocated to Los Angeles in 2017. The team’s name, “Strike Force,” was chosen to reflect the city’s strong military presence and the idea of a powerful, high-energy team. The Strike Force hired former NFL player and coach, Billy Back, as their first head coach. In their inaugural season, the team finished with a 1-13 record, but showed promise with a young roster and a strong defense.
2019 Season
The Strike Force’s first season was marked by growing pains, as the team struggled to find consistency on offense. However, the team’s defense showed flashes of brilliance, with players like defensive back Kenric Ellison and linebacker Tyrell Pearson earning all-league honors. The team’s special teams unit was also a highlight, with kicker Ernesto Lacayo setting a new IFL record for most field goals made in a season. Despite the team’s struggles, the Strike Force averaged over 3,000 fans per game, showing a strong appetite for indoor football in San Diego.
| Season | Wins | Losses | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 1 | 13 | .071 |
| 2020 | 2 | 12 | .143 |
| 2021 | 5 | 9 | .357 |
Current Roster
The San Diego Strike Force’s current roster features a mix of veteran players and young talent. The team’s offense is led by quarterback Landon Peterson, who threw for over 2,000 yards and 30 touchdowns in 2021. The team’s defense is anchored by linebacker Tyrell Pearson, who earned all-league honors for the second consecutive season in 2021. The Strike Force’s special teams unit is once again a strength, with kicker Ernesto Lacayo returning for his third season with the team.
Notable Players
The Strike Force have had several notable players throughout their history. Defensive back Kenric Ellison was a fan favorite in the team’s inaugural season, earning all-league honors and leading the team in interceptions. Wide receiver Victor Moore was a key contributor to the team’s offense in 2020, catching over 50 passes and scoring 10 touchdowns. Quarterback Landon Peterson has been a steady presence under center for the Strike Force, throwing for over 1,500 yards and 20 touchdowns in each of the past two seasons.
- QB Landon Peterson
- LB Tyrell Pearson
- DB Kenric Ellison
- WR Victor Moore
- K Ernesto Lacayo
What league does the San Diego Strike Force play in?
+The San Diego Strike Force plays in the Indoor Football League (IFL).
Where do the San Diego Strike Force play their home games?
+The San Diego Strike Force play their home games at the Pechanga Arena in San Diego’s Midway district.
Who is the head coach of the San Diego Strike Force?
+The head coach of the San Diego Strike Force is Billy Back.
