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Even so, the Los Angeles team would likely have its troubles in a Staten Island league that plays a brand of touch far closer to pro football than the casual Sunday morning romp in the park. The Staten Island teams all wear uniforms and football shoes with cleats, play games seven men to the side under the shrill whistle of three uniformed officials. Each team carries some 25 players, enough for full offensive and defensive units, plus specialists who are sent in just to kick or to return punts. Although blockers must stay on their feet, the games are rough and tough. "Our wives wouldn't let us play tackle," says Star Pass Receiver Ed Finnerty, "so we play touch, which sounds innocent. But you've even got to watch being stepped on in our games. We average 200 Ibs. per man in the line."
