New era begins for Rush

A new era of Chicago Rush football kicks off today when the Rush takes on the Milwaukee Mustangs at the Bradley Center (6:30 p.m.).

Gone are some familiar faces, including longtime head coach Mike Hohensee, who has been reunited with former Rush WR/LB Dejuan Alfonzo in Philadelphia with the Soul.

But the new man at the helm for the Rush is a familiar face himself, Bob McMillen. And after wrapping up his first training camp and making his final cuts Saturday, one of the most celebrated players in AFL history is ready for his — and his team’s — 2011 debut.

“Our players have worked hard this camp and are building a strong camaraderie already,” McMillen said. “The team is dialed in and excited for the season to start.”

Though there will be plenty of new faces on the roster this season, McMillen can take comfort in the fact that veteran quarterback Russ Michna is back to run the show. The former Conant High School and Western Illinois star returns for his third season with the Rush. A familiar target downfield for Michna this season will be his college teammate and wide receiver, Reggie Gray.

Also back is kicker Chris Gould, who was named 2010 All-Arena first team and 2010 Kicker of the Year.

That group will be out for revenge tonight against a Milwaukee team that knocked the Rush out of the playoffs last August.

Exacting revenge won’t be easy, if history is any indication. The Rush is 4-5 in season openers, 2-4 when opening on the road, and 1-4 in season openers that fall in odd years.

While tonight’s game is no doubt front and center, one could understand if some in the Rush organization have been looking ahead a bit to Friday’s home opener against Hohensee and the Soul at the Allstate Arena (7 p.m.).