WPFL Grieves the Loss of
Niki "Pup" Marzluff , 1982 - 2006

Thee Toledo Reign was saddened this morning with the loss of one of our own. Thee Toledo Reign 2006 Rookie #94, Niki "Pup" Marzluff, was taken from us on Christmas Eve. Niki was in a traffic accident on her way home to celebrate Christmas with her family.

Niki joined Thee Toledo Reign in February 2006 to fulfill a dream. Once successfully completing try-outs and Football 101 sessions, she was dubbed "Pup" by Head Coach Mitchi Collette. Niki earned this nickname because of her eagerness to learn the game of football. She was constantly studying, asking questions and trying to improve as a player. At Pre Season Orientation, after reading through the list of awards the team presents at the end of each season, Niki had a new goal. She would never tell anyone what it was but as the pre season began, it was apparent - she was going after "Rookie of the Year". Everyone involved with Thee Reign Organization noticed the dedication, pride and perseverance of this rookie. She rarely missed an event, or even a practice. She was prepared and ready for any obstacle, except for one she never expected.

In an unfortunate accident during tackling practice, Niki injured her left ankle and had surgery to repair the damage. This devastated Niki, however somehow she managed to find a spark to ignite a flame of determination within herself. Niki worked diligently to rehab her ankle and attempted to attend every practice she could, to keep up with her team, as she did not want to let them down. When released, her teammates gave her a standing ovation. Everyone knew how much it meant for Niki to step off the sideline and onto the playing field to be with her team. Niki was able to attend a few practices, but due to complications with her injury, she never had the opportunity to gear up for a game.

Niki was to receive the "2006 Honorary Rookie of the Year" award at the team's banquet on January 14, 2007. Instead, the award will be presented by Head Coach Mitchi Colette, in a special awards ceremony on Thursday night at Jasin's Funeral Home.

It is very sad when someone is taken so young and so unexpectedly. Let it comfort her family, friends, relatives, teammates and fans to know, "Pup" will continue to live through those that she has so unselfishly passed on her flame of determination, as she had chose to be an organ donor.

We ask that you please keep her family and friends in your prayers. God Bless you and yours.

Pup, you will be missed! Let it Reign!