Italy: QB Luke Zahradka a key factor in Legnano Frogs’ playoff push
Legnano Frogs quarterback Luke Zahradka, 33, is riding high in the Italian Football League in 2024, leading the league in passing yards (2,317) and completion percentage (72.4%) while guiding his team to a 6-2 record. The 6’5”, 230-pound passer has revitalized his career after an injury-shortened season with the Frankfurt Galaxy in the European League of Football (ELF) in 2024, where he threw for 1,142 yards and nine touchdowns in five games.
His consistency has been the catalyst for Legnano’s resurgence, transforming the Frogs into a legitimate title threat after falling in the wild card round in 2024.
From Milano struggles to Legnano resurgence
Zahradka’s 2023 campaign with the Milano Seamen in the ELF showcased volume over victories. He led the ELF in pass attempts (498), completing 293 for 3,518 yards (third overall) and 25 touchdowns, but his performance could not overcome the team’s weaknesses and they finished with a dismal 2-10 record. Prior to his ELF move, the California native spent six seasons with the Seamen (2017–2022), amassing 10,738 yards, 152 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions in the Italian Football League, while winning three titles in five years.
Zahradka shines on international stage
The veteran also serves as quarterback for the Italian National Team, winning MVP honors in the European Group B Qualifying Tournament. Across two games, Zahradka completed 39 of 56 passes (69.6%) for 489 yards, five touchdowns, and one interception, averaging 244.5 yards per game. His leadership propelled Italy through the qualifiers, blending precision with poise.
Well-traveled veteran builds legacy
Zahradka, a Bentley University (NCAA Div. II) grad, began his European career in Germany with the Kirchdorf Wildcats (GFL2) in 2013, followed by a 2014 season with France’s Amiens Spartiates. He returned to Italy in 2015 with the Ancona Dolphins before joining the Prague Black Panthers in 2016. He finally arrived in Milano in 2017. Now, his precision and experience fuel Legnano’s playoff push, proving age hasn’t dimmed his ability to elevate franchises.
