When the World League of American Football kicks off its inaugural season this spring, the Birmingham Fire will have the distinction of having a former Huskie on its roster.

Former NIU standout and defensive lineman Ted Hennings was the 85th pick overall in the 9th round of the WLAF draft.

“I’m really happy right now,” said Hennings. “I’ve been looking forward to this day ever since I heard about the new league.”

Hennings was invited to the Chicago Bears’ training camp last summer as a free agent but was one of the final cuts.

The WLAF will be playing games in the European cities of London, England, Frankfurt, Germany and Barcelona, Spain.

Hennings, who was known as the “mad stork” during his playing days at NIU, will report for tryouts Feb. 25. Hennings said he hopes all of his hard work will pay off.

“I hope to do really well and possibly open a few eyes,” said Hennings. “This league will give me a chance to really hone my skills, and right now I’m concentrating on making the team.

“It’s a new league that is really competitive. I think it (the league) is going to make it.”