The Iowa Barnstormers made a run into the 2009 Arena Football League 2 Playoffs this past year, and a big reason for that was former Simpson standout Dusty Kain.

In his first full and second overall season with the Barnstormers, Kain, a wide receiver, helped lead them to a 12-4 record, a Midwest Division title and a trip to the second round of the Arena Cup Playoffs. The Barnstormers made the biggest improvement in the league after finishing 6-10 in 2008.

“It’s definitely been a lot of fun,” Kain said. “The best part about it is that we have a lot of good guys on the team. Even though it is a business and you have to show up and perform, it’s a more laid-back atmosphere.”

The have-fun, laid-back attitude helped the Barnstormers succeed this past year, highlighted in their comeback playoff win.

“In our first playoff game, we got down by three touchdowns right away,” Kain said. “No one was getting on each other. We just said, ‘Don’t worry about it, let’s have some fun.’ I think the laid-back approach actually benefited us because no one got too worried.”

The success on the field added to the fun. Kain was the third-leading receiver, compiling 54 catches for 614 yards and 18 touchdowns. He added five more TDs in the two playoff games.

“I felt I fit into the game plan really well,” Kain said.

Kain also excelled at special teams. His efforts were rewarded with the N.O.T.T. Award, given to the top special teams performer on the team. N.O.T.T. stands for “Nothing outside the ten,” which is the Iowa special teams motto. He told the special teams coach before the season began that he would win the award.

“I think it’s fun, being at a dead sprint with one guy trying to block you,” Kain said. “Being a receiver, the only time I got to tackle anybody was on an interception and that’s not usually fun.”

At 5’10”, 175 pounds, he may