Two Rush stars to miss showdown with Milwaukee

The Chicago Rush will be without starting quarterback Russ Michna and leading receiver Samie Parker for Saturday's home game with the Milwaukee Iron, the team announced.

Both players will miss the game to attend a three-day mini-camp for the Las Vegas Locomotives of the United Football League. Both played for Las Vegas last fall and are planning to return to the Locomotives at the conclusion of the 2010 AFL season.

As part of their commitment to Las Vegas head coach Jim Fassel, Michna and Parker are required to attend this weekend's mini-camp.

"We've known this was coming and have been preparing for it for a few weeks," said Rush head coach Mike Hohensee. "While the timing certainly isn't great - especially since this week's game with Milwaukee is for first place in the division - we appreciate Coach Fassel's willingness to work with the Rush organization and look forward to Michna and Parker's return next week."

Michna has started every game for the Rush this season, completing 203 of 296 passes for 2,838 yards and 52 touchdowns, while throwing just eight interceptions. He leads the league in completion percentage (68.6%) and ranks second in the AFL in passer rating (127.5) and fourth in passing yards.

Parker is the team's leading receiver, catching 69 passes for 1,040 yards and 14 touchdowns. He ranks sixth in the AFL in receiving yards.

Michna will be replaced in the starting lineup by backup quarterback J.J. Raterink, who will be making his first career start.

Last week the team signed former Rush receiver Travis LaTendresse, who played for the Rush in 2008.

Kickoff for Saturday's game at Allstate Arena is set for 7 p.m. To purchase tickets, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 or visit the Ticketmaster Web site at www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets, which range in price from $10 to $60, also may be purchased in person at any Ticketmaster outlet or the Allstate Arena box office.