He played in one game and didn't record any statistics.

This season, Robinson will make his third consecutive start at defensive specialist in the Islanders' home opener tomorrow night against the Bossier-Shreveport (La.) Battle Wings. Kickoff for the arenafootball2 game is set for 6:30 at Blaisdell Arena.

Robinson, 23, leads the team with six assisted tackles and three pass breakups, and is tied for the lead with eight solo tackles.

"This year I'm going to work hard day in and day out," said Robinson, who attended Idaho State. "I haven't earned my keep yet. I haven't really done anything to say I have. I'm looking to improve each and every day."

Since Robinson joined the team midway through last season, it was difficult for him to break into the lineup.

Robinson worked hard before the season to improve his play, according to Islanders head coach Cal Lee.

"Josh has done a great job from last year," Lee said. "He tried out and I don't think he made the team (last season). This year, he's done a great job during the offseason getting prepared for the season and it shows in his play. He's doing a great job as a defensive specialist."

Some players who consistently failed to make the 19-man game roster quit showing up to practice. But Robinson stuck it out and it's paid off.

"The main thing you got to tell these guys is for 19 guys to suit up that's not very many," Lee said. "You can't be concerned if you're going to be picked. You go out and do the best you can and be ready in case you get the call."

The Islanders have allowed just 72 combined points in their first two games and Robinson already thinks "we have the best defensive secondary hands down overall" in the West Division.

Other secondary members have been Eddie Klaneski, Desmond Maul, Anthony Arceneaux, Nian Taylor and Channon Harris.

The Battle Wings (1-1) are in the Mid-South Division.

• Home sweet home: The Islanders' season started March 27, but the team held its first practice at Blaisdell Arena on Monday.

The Islanders opened the season on the road, had a bye the following week and a road game last week.

The Islanders have practiced at Aloha Stadium or Saint Louis School because the Blaisdell has been booked for other events.

The Islanders can't simulate fielding balls off the end zone rebound nets and with walls surrounding the field at the other two practice sites.

"For us, you don't have to worry about the weather," Lee said. "It's a great feeling because you're practicing where you're going to be playing."

• Injury report: Lineman Morrie Roe (calf) and receiver/linebacker Gabe Amey (knee) were placed on short-term injured reserve this week. They were injured in last week's loss at Louisville, and will miss the next two games. Lineman Evile Puna and receiver/linebacker Randyn Akiona were activated.

• Jackson cleared to join team: Former Wai'anae High and University of Hawai'i safety Nate Jackson was cleared to play for the Islanders after being granted his release from the Tennessee Titans on Wednesday.

Jackson signed with Tennessee and assigned to the Scottish Claymores of NFL Europe. He was released during the Claymores training camp.