Philadelphia, Pa. - (7/11/2018) – Former two-year captain and two-time All-Collegiate Sprint Football League (CSFL), Kadeem Pankey '18 recently signed a professional contract with the Bremerhaven Seahawks of Oberliga Niedersachsen/Bremen, the third league in North division of the German Football League. Pankey, who played both defensive back and linebacker positions for the Griffins is taking the opportunity seriously and working hard to establish a professional football career, "I signed my contract July 2 and the contract is from March until late September, so with that being said I got signed in the middle of the season. Being a little late to the table, I've kept a positive mindset, worked hard in the weight room, and fine-tuned my techniques so that I can continue to play at this level." Pankey is the first member of the Chestnut Hill College sprint football program to sign a professional contract.
 
Pankey transitioned from defensive back to linebacker in his senior season (2017) at Chestnut Hill College, a move that proved beneficial as he improved upon a 2016 All-CSFL Second Team honor with an All-CSFL First Team nod in 2017. Pankey totaled 26 tackles and a team-high 4.5 sacks for a loss of 22 yards. He finished his collegiate career tied for third all-time in tackles (86 - 53 unassisted, 33 assisted) and first all-time for interceptions (3). Pankey also played wide receiver during his sophomore (2015) and junior (2016) seasons in the Scarlet and Gold, totaling 71 yards on nine receptions.
 
Pankey is primarily playing strong safety for the Seahawks and still making the occasional appearance at linebacker. He made his debut on Saturday, July 7, recording 13 tackles, two sacks, and a forced fumble in a 42-26 loss to the league-leading, Hamburg Pioneers (Recap).



According to Pankey, "The only difference is the age range. Players range from as young as 19 years old to 40 years old. That and there isn't a weight limit. The football aspect is all the same, just a little faster because it's another level up. Chestnut Hill College competes in the CSFL, a collegiate football league that restrict players to a weight limit of 178 pounds – and 172 in past seasons.
 
In addition to the opportunity to play football at the professional level, Pankey is enjoying the chance to experience a foreign culture. "Living here is awesome, it's very welcoming and the people are nice and friendly. I really just had to get accustomed to the six-hour time difference. Overall the experience has been great, I'm enjoying my time here, I love it!"