Pages

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

AVITAE ArenaBowl Sweepstakes Winner Announced

A winner has been selected in the AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV Sweepstakes, the AFL Office announced today.
Sally Dold of Kansas City, Missouri will be heading to New Orleans with her husband for AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV. Dold, a Kansas City Command fan, says this will be her first ArenaBowl.
Dold’s prize package includes roundtrip airfare to New Orleans, two tickets to AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV, the Silver Anniversary Gala and Commissioner’s Tailgate Party, as well as two nights’ hotel accommodations for the game and festivities.
The Road to AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV continues this Friday, as the top-seeded Philadelphia Soul host the Jacksonville Sharks in the American Conference Championship on NFL Network’s broadcast of “NET10 Arena Football Friday”. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET.

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Snoop Dogg Event Cancelled for July 28 Philadelphia Soul Game

The Philadelphia Soul's scheduled event featuring Snoop Dogg that was announced to take place at the Arena Football League's first-round playoff game at the Wells Fargo Center between the Soul and New Orleans VooDoo on Saturday, July 28 has been cancelled due to a scheduling conflict. This cancellation includes the halftime performance of Biz Markie.
Fans that purchased tickets after July 8, specifically for this event, may contact the Soul ticket department at (215) 253-4900, ext. 3 for a refund.

Monday, July 23, 2012

CIFL Welcomes 2 Kentucky Teams

The CIFL is proud to welcome the additions of the Kentucky Xtreme and the Kentucky Drillers for the 2013 season.
The Xtreme will be based out of the Louisville area and will play their home contest inside the Kentucky Fair & Exposition Center's Freedom Hall.
"The city of Louisville and Xtreme are very excited to bring indoor football back to the Louisville area," said Xtreme owner Victor Cole. The Xtreme tested the waters of the indoor game this past season playing two exhibition games against 2012 CIFL teams, the Evansville Rage & Indianapolis Enforcers. The Louisville area is no stranger to the indoor game, having hosted an AF2 team (Louisville Fire) from 2001 to 2007.
On the east side of the state the Kentucky Drillers will call the East Kentucky Expo Center in Pikeville home.
"The move to the CIFL made logistical sense for us," said Drillers owner Rick Kranz. "We now have the majority of our opponents within six hours of our home field."
In anticipation of the upcoming season, Kranz also said, "We are excited about starting fresh in a new league and playing against competitive teams. We look forward to playing teams like Marion and Saginaw again. Our fans should be excited that we will be playing against quality opponents." The Drillers, heading into their third consecutive season, squared off against the Saginaw Sting in their league championship game back in 2011.
Both the Drillers of Pikeville and the Xtreme of Louisville will begin their CIFL seasons in February 2013.

Arizona Rattlers players juggle day jobs with football careers

By Mike Sunnucks (Phoenix Business Journal)

In a sports world where New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees holds out for a $20 million per year contract, the landscape for arena football players is quite a bit different.
Arena Football League players — including those for the Arizona Rattlers — are well down the financial food chain from the likes of Brees, LeBron James, Larry Fitzgerald and Albert Pujols.
Most AFL players started the season making $400 per game and have day jobs to supplement their incomes while they play. A new labor deal will bring those game paychecks up to at least $800 by 2017. Still, arena players work day jobs just like the fans in the stands.
That includes players for the Rattlers, who will be in the AFL playoffs starting Saturday. The Rattlers will host the rival San Jose SaberCats in Phoenix.
Trandon Harvey, a Rattlers wide receiver, is also a customer service representative with Verizon Wireless. He’s in his fifth season with the Rattlers and his second year with Verizon.
Harvey, who played college football at Washington State University, works full-time with Verizon while also practicing and playing for the Rattlers, one of the AFL’s most successful franchises.
“I juggle both jobs with little sleep and both employers are very accommodating,” said Harvey.
Harvey said he will go to Rattlers practices in Mesa from 7 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. on weekdays then work at Verizon from noon to 11 p.m.
Verizon allows him some schedule flexibility to accommodate travel during the arena season, which runs from March into August.
Rattlers Offensive lineman John Booker is a program coordinator at Phoenix Day’s Central Park neighborhood and youth services center in Phoenix.
Booker will practice during weekday mornings at the Rattlers facility in Mesa, and then head straight to work at Central Park in south Phoenix.
Phoenix Day is a nonprofit that runs summer camps, after school programs and offers other services in the city of Phoenix.
“The biggest challenge is turning the switch on and off. One minute I am talking football. The next it is homework and behavior charts,” said Booker, a 6-foot-4-inch, 315-pound lineman who was in the San Francisco 49ers training camp in 2008.

Indianapolis Joins the UIFL for 2013

The UIFL is proud to announce the addition of the Indianapolis Panthers to the proud tradition that is UIFL football. The Panthers, owned by Zeb Sutton, are a strong Indiana tradition in semi-professional football, the outdoor version. This is the next step in the building of that Panthers football brand in Indiana, the indoor professional version.
Zeb and the UIFL began discussing the idea a few weeks ago and found that there are several things that were consistent. Zeb wants fan-friendly entertainment with players and coaches showing character and sportsmanship within the framework of the games. The Panthers wanted a league that was affordable and would allow a new organization to have the same chance at being profitable as the already established teams. The UIFL wants these things and more moving forward. The UIFL expects the Panthers to quickly become leaders in our league.
The UIFL is in the process of strengthening the league with accountability, owner/league communication and long-term stability and Zeb Sutton and the Indianapolis Panthers bring all of that and a confident professionalism. Zeb has numerous contacts in the Southeastern Conference and the UIFL is expecting the Panthers to be a real candidate for the championship in 2013.
The Indianapolis Panthers join the Missouri Monster in St. Charles (St. Louis) and the Georgia Rampage in Georgia as new members of the league. League President, Dr. Jim Krause adds; "We are moving in the right direction. Major change always leads to fluctuation as teams try to navigate their way to profitability. The UIFL is committed to a business model that keeps the league operating on a small budget, but supports the owners in their bid to be financially profitable, build corporate relations and especially embrace the selected communities and have them, in return, embrace the teams."
The UIFL intends to expand further and will be bring more announcements as the summer unfolds.

Talons Hire Orlando Predators Executive

The San Antonio Talons announced today the hiring of Keith Recine as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Recine spent the past five years with the Orlando Predators of the Arena Football League, the last four as Director of Game Day Operations and Corporate Sponsorship Coordinator.
During Recine's tenure in Orlando both attendance and corporate sponsorship revenue grew, making the franchise one of the cornerstones of the AFL. The Predators lead the AFL in attendance this season with an average of 12,552 fans per game and are also among league leaders in corporate sponsorship revenue. Recine will be tasked with leading the Talons day-to-day operations and strengthening the business side of the organization.
"The opportunity to take over the Talons and introduce Arena Football to San Antonio is a dream come true for me," says Recine. "San Antonio has all the ingredients necessary to make it one of the top markets in the Arena Football League and the Talons organization has everything anyone could hope for to make it a world class franchise."
Talons Owner David Lynd expressed his excitement about Recine leading the franchise.
"We are proud to announce the hiring of Keith Recine," says Lynd. "This was among the most important moves we could make and we are glad we made it before our season ended so we could get a jump start on next year. Our 2013 season ticket sales are in full swing and we hope our fans are proud of what we have accomplished this year and will continue to support the team."
"We looked at numerous AFL teams and executives to fill this position and Keith was our number one choice," Lynd adds. "Keith is a veteran Arena Football League executive and has successfully managed one of the most storied franchises in the AFL in the Orlando Predators."
AFL Commissioner Jerry Kurz is also expressed a great deal of optimism about the hiring.
"Keith has been a tireless worker for the Predators and the AFL for years now," says Kurz. "His dedication to our sport has been appreciated and I'm excited that the Talons franchise will now benefit from his vast experience."
Recine's arrival to San Antonio this week signals a change in the direction of the franchise's business operation. Recine is expected to bring valuable knowledge and experience in running an AFL franchise with him from Orlando. The Talons focus off the field is expected to center around expanding both their season ticket base as well as their roster of corporate partners in San Antonio. He is expected to bring with him Orlando's commitment to providing a total sports entertainment experience for the fans every game and a focus on "community based marketing" with a goal of making the Talons a recognized part of the San Antonio community throughout the entire year.
The San Antonio Talons are completing their first Arena Football League Season in San Antonio. The team was moved to San Antonio from Tulsa, OK in 2012 and won the AFL's Central Division title this season. They will host their first AFL playoff game on July 27, 2012 at the Alamodome.

AFL Postseason Matchups Set

The Arena Football League’s 2012 regular season has come to a close. The AFL postseason is set to kickoff on Friday, July 27 featuring the #4 seeded Utah Blaze (12-6) at the  # 1 seeded Central Division champion San Antonio Talons (14-4) on NFL Network at 8 p.m. ET.
The #2 seeded West Division champion Arizona Rattlers (13-5) will host the #3 seeded San Jose SaberCats (12-6) on Saturday, July 28 at 10 p.m. ET. The game will be televised locally and can be seen on UStream.tv/afl. In the American Conference, the defending ArenaBowl champion, South Division champion and #2 seeded Jacksonville Sharks (10-8) will host the #3 seeded Georgia Force (9-9) on Saturday, July 28 at 7 p.m. ET and can also be seen on UStream.tv/afl.
The #4 seeded New Orleans VooDoo (8-10) travels to Philadelphia to face the #1 seeded East Division champion Soul (15-3) on Saturday, July 28. The game can be seen on UStream.tv/afl. The game is set to kickoff at 7:05 p.m. ET.
The three-week AFL postseason culminates with AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV on August 10, 2012 from New Orleans, LA. The game will be broadcasted nationally on NFL Network. Kickoff is set for 10:30 p.m. ET.

AFL Field Pass Subscriber Wins ArenaBowl Trip

With the 2012 Arena Football League regular season in the books, the AFL has announced the winner of the AFL Field Pass trip to AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV.
AFL Field Pass subscriber Mike Dawson will be headed to AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV as the winner of a trip for two to New Orleans.
Dawson was an active Field Pass member, participating in Field Pass “Top 25” votes and winning the fan club’s regular season “Pick’Em” game. Dawson and his wife, Carrie, also earned a pair of actual field passes for a Chicago Rush home game earlier this season as well.
All AFL Field Pass members attending AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV will be granted special access to a number of events, including Media Day, a “Haunted History Tour” with the 2012 NET10 Dream Team, priority seating to the Wheelchair Basketball Game for Joey’s Hope, special admittance to the Silver Anniversary Gala, a tour of the New Orleans Arena and behind-the-scenes access to FanFest and the Commissioner’s Tailgate prior to AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV on August 10.
AFL Field Pass, the official fan club of the Arena Football League, offers fans insider web content and access to videos and contests on AFLFieldPass.com, as well as other benefits, including a personalized membership card, a Silver Anniversary lapel pin, and a commemorative Silver Anniversary Magazine.
The Road to AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV begins this Friday, as the top-seeded San Antonio Talons host the Utah Blaze in the opening round of the 2012 playoffs on NFL Network’s broadcast of “NET10 Arena Football Friday”. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET.

Friday, July 20, 2012

The UIFL Welcomes The Georgia Rampage To The League

The Georgia Rampage, a professional arena football team, is coming to Dalton Georgia! The Rampage will play it's home games at the Northwest Georgia Trade and Convention Center and will compete in the UIFL. The UIFL is going into it's third season as a professional football league and stretches from Florida to Pennsylvania.
The Rampage ownership is lead by Amer Awad and Kacee Smith. "We feel honored to bring a professional football team to a city with such an amazing football fan base and look forward to bringing championships to this city. In the words of Herm Edwards, you play to win the game! Fans don't want to see a team lose and neither do we" Said Awad. When asked about working with Smith, Awad said, "Kacee Smith is the reason I decided to join the team. His track record in football, ability to find talent and all around experience was impressive and I look forward to being apart of it." Smith has also been a co-owner and manager of the North Georgia Bulldogs, an outdoor semi-pro football team. The Bulldogs are going into their 6th season and coming off of an undefeated season. "I'm very excited about this move and I think Dalton will be a perfect fit for this. Not only are we bringing great talent made up of Division 1 football players, and former professional players from other leagues to thrill and excite the town, but we are also driving in business to the local area. On game days it will be a great spike in business for restaurants, hotels and near by shopping. We offer very cheap and creative advertisement for local businesses too. I'm a big believer in being involved with those around you and pulling together to help the local community grow and prosper" said Kacee Smith.
The Rampage was going to be an expansion team in 2012 before the team's ownership lost funding and was forced to fold it's 4 teams. The territory, team name, and logo was left vacant and Awad and Smith bought it from the league and decided to move it to Dalton. Smith used a travel team last year to play under the Rampage name as they played all their games on the road and shocked everyone when they traveled to Tupelo, Mississippi for their opening game to bring in their first win. This was the first ever win by a travel team.
The Rampage will play six home games at the Northwest Georgia Trade and Convention Center in Spring of 2013. A press conference will be held in the near future and the team hopes to launch season tickets soon and will also hold their first tryout for the 2013 season. The Rampage will be looking to fill positions such as sales and marketing, interns, coaches and volunteers. If you wish to be apart of the team, you may contact them at kacee.rampage@gmail.com and amer.rampage@gmail.com.

Kickoff for Avitae ArenaBowl XXV Pushed to 10:30 Pm ET

The kickoff time for AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV has been pushed to 10:30 pm ET, the Arena Football League announced today. Due to the NFL Network broadcast of the New York Jets at Cincinnati Bengals preseason game conflicting with the original ArenaBowl kickoff time, a decision was made to keep the telecast live. Tim Tebow's first game as a member of the Jets will serve as a prelude to the AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV telecast.
"We were presented with the option to air the game tape delayed, but didn't feel that this would be fitting," Arena Football League Commissioner Jerry B. Kurz said. "A multitude of countries around the world have watched recent ArenaBowls live, our fans want it live, and we know that if any city can handle a late party, it's New Orleans."
There were 14,320 fans in attendance at the US Airways center for ArenaBowl XXIV last season. That NFL Network broadcast grabbed a record rating, which was the second AFL ratings record in as many weeks. AFL partners such as NET10 and AVITAE will be featured in television commercials throughout the day promoting the game.
While the NFL preseason broadcast takes place, AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV Fan Fest will be going on outside the New Orleans Arena, where fans will take part in multiple activities with the National Guard, the NET10 Challenge, musical performances, acrobatic displays, food, beverages, and more. The pregame festivities will lead directly up to kickoff and the postgame festivities will carry into the night.
"Our fans believe in us and are willing to find us on our season long, three-year broadcast partner," Kurz said. "Those in attendance will be treated to a host of activities throughout the day and those watching at home will get to see the two best teams in our League play in our Silver Anniversary Championship."

Kenny McEntyre to be Inducted into the Orlando Predators Ring of Honor

Orlando Predators defensive back "The Glove" Kenny McEntyre will be the eighth player inducted into the Predators Ring of Honor on Sunday. The ceremony will occur during halftime of Sunday's game against the Milwaukee Mustangs.
Recently named No. 13 on the Arena Football League's list of the 25 Greatest AFL Players, McEntyre has spent 13 seasons with the Orlando Predators, including the last five games of the current season. McEntyre holds the league record for most career regular season interceptions, 97, an AFL record that nearly doubles the second-highest career interceptions total of 50. He has also been named the AFL Defensive Player of the Year three times, the only player in League history to accomplish that feat.
Previous Predators Ring of Honor inductees include Barry Wagner, Herkie Walls, Ben Bennett, Paul McGowan, Durwood Roquemore and former Head Coaches Perry Moss and Fran Papasadero.
Kickoff for Sunday's game against the Milwaukee Mustangs is set for 2:00 p.m. from the Amway Center. The game will broadcast live on Brighthouse Sports Network and OrlandoPredators.com/Live.

Philadelphia Soul Bring Back Summer Slam

The Philadelphia Soul will be down at the shore on Saturday, August 18 to host the Seventh Annual Summer Slam in Wildwood, NJ. The event will take place on Schellenger Avenue and the beach from noon to 4 p.m., with the flag football tournament starting at 10 a.m. and running through completion with the net proceeds from Summer Slam to benefit "Lunch with Lynch", a Wildwood-based charity.
"We're excited to bring Summer Slam back to Wildwood for our sixth year," said Soul VP/COO John Adams. "This is a unique experience for fans to interact with players and the organization, and we hope to see all of the Soul fans on the beach on August 18th."
"We are proud to welcome the Philadelphia Soul organization and players to Wildwood," said Founder of the "Lunch with Lynch" Foundation, John Lynch. "Wildwood is a great place for families and the Soul is a great source of family-friendly entertainment, so it is a perfect combination."
Summer Slam will feature live bands, food vendors, and a silent auction table with autographed items from our team, owner Ron Jaworski and other Philadelphia sports teams. Kids can enjoy inflatable rides and games.
This is a great opportunity for Soul fans to mingle with Soul players, coaches and Soulmates. The Soul will also be holding a Merchandise Blowout Sale for fans to bring home their favorite Soul gear.
A men's 7-on-7 and a co-ed 8-on-8 flag football tournament will begin at 10 a.m. on the beach. To register your team now, go to www.playphillysports.com .
Fans are invited to continue the celebration with players and Soulmates at the post event party at the Boardwalk Bar and Grill (3500 Atlantic Ave) from 4-6 p.m. Food and drink specials will be available.

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

AVITAE ArenaBowl Field Pass Package Announced

Subscribers to AFL Field Pass, the official fan club of the Arena Football League, will be granted special access to AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV events, the League office announced today.
AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV Week will begin with Media Day on Wednesday, August 8. Field Pass subscribers will be allowed special admission and field access to the event with their membership cards. Field Pass subscribers are also invited to join the 2012 NET10 Dream Team on a “Haunted History Tour” on Wednesday and will receive priority seating to the AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV Wheelchair Basketball Game for Joey’s Hope on Wednesday night.
In addition, members will also gain special admittance to the Silver Anniversary Gala on Thursday evening. The Gala will include the awards ceremony for 2012 AFL award winners.
Before AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV kicks off on Friday, August 10, Field Pass subscribers will receive a tour of the New Orleans Arena, as well as behind-the-scenes access to Fan Fest and the Commissioner’s Tailgate. Members will also have the opportunity to interact with AFL staff and players throughout the week.

Tampa Bay Storm Re-Launches Surge Fan Club

The Tampa Bay Storm is pleased to announce the team has re-launched the Tampa Bay Storm Surge Fan Club for the 2013 season.
"We have tremendous fans here in Tampa Bay, the best in the AFL," said team president Derrick Brooks. "Bringing back the Storm Surge Fan Club is another important step in making our fans an integral part of the team. As we continue to build the team back to greatness, we are looking to the strength of our fans to help us do it together."
Storm Surge Fan Club members will receive exciting benefits including a preseason meet the team rally hosted by Storm president Derrick Brooks. Members will receive an official Storm Surge Fan Club decal and membership card, a "˜Survivor' style bandana and Surge noise maker. Additional benefits include private events with Storm players and official Storm special offers throughout the season. Membership in the Fan Club is $25 and can be purchased online by visiting TampaBayStorm.com.
The Five-Time World Champion Tampa Bay Storm celebrates its 25th season in the AFL this 2012 Season. Season tickets for the 2013 season are on sale now. For more information or to purchase, call 813.301.6600 or visit www.tampabaystorm.com.

Monday, July 16, 2012

Fans to Vote on Player of the Year Nominees

Arena Football fans will have a unique opportunity in the final Week of the 2012 regular season coined the "Year of the Fan." Beginning on Tuesday, July 17, 2012, the Arena Football League will open fan voting on ArenaFootball.com for Player of the Year nominees, the League Office announced today.
The Arena Football League will open voting for six categories starting tomorrow. One category will open per day, with voting lasting 24 hours. Voting will kickoff at 1:00 pm ET and switch each day through Sunday, July 22.
The fan-voting schedule is as follows:
Tuesday, July 17 - NET10 Rookie of the Year
Wednesday, July 18 - J. Lewis Small Ironman of the Year
Thursday, July 19 - NET10 Head Coach of the Year
Friday, July 20 - Riddell Defensive Player of the Year
Saturday, July 21 - Russell Offensive Player of the Year
Sunday, July 22 - National Guard MVP of the Year
Fan voting for each candidate and category is unlimited and will be factored into votes from current AFL Head Coaches, AFL Media Departments and the League Office.
Player of the Year winners will be announced throughout a weeklong celebration of the League's 25th Anniversary in New Orleans beginning Monday, August 6. AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV is set for Friday, August 10 on NFL Network.

VooDoo, Mardi Gras Indians Team up for School Supply Drive Contest

The New Orleans VooDoo and the Mardi Gras Indian Hall of Fame have teamed up for the team's home finale against the Georgia Force on Saturday, July 21 to assist New Orleans Metro Area children with school supplies.
VooDoo fans are asked to bring school supplies to the game. For every item donated, a fan will be entered in a raffle to win a VooDoo gift basket. The VooDoo gift basket will consist of a signed football and replica jersey by the VooDoo team, two ArenaBowl XXV tickets, along with other items that are must haves!
"We are excited about partnering with the Mardi Gras Indian Hall of Fame and the Guardians Institute for this noble cause. With many of our players and staff from the local area, we know the challenges that we face, which is why we have decided to partner up to help get our future leaders what they need to succeed in school," said Brandon Rizzuto, New Orleans VooDoo Vice President.
There will be Mardi Gras Indians to collect your donation of school supplies during the Fan Fest and the game. If you forget to bring school supplies, you can still give a cash donation. For every school supply item donated, fans will have to fill out a small form with their name, phone number and email address to be eligible for the VooDoo gift basket. The winner will be announced on the VooDoo Facebook page: www.facebook.com/aflvoodoo on Monday at 10 a.m. If that winner does not contact the VooDoo front office by 11 a.m., another winner will be selected.
The Guardians Institute and Mardi Gras Indian Hall of Fame are excited to partner with the VooDoo team to continue with investing in our city's youth. "Knowledge, once acquired, is something that can never be taken away" as Big Chief Donald Harrison Sr. always said.
More information about the contest:
What: School Supply Drive Contest
When: Saturday, July 21 at New Orleans VooDoo versus Georgia Force game. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.
Where: New Orleans Arena
To enter in the contest, bring school supplies (notebooks, pens, paper, folders, etc.) to the game and donate it to the Mardi Gras Indians. For every item donated, a contestant gets additional entry into the drawing.
The winner will receive a VooDoo gift basket that includes a signed football and jersey by the team, along with two ArenaBowl XXV tickets. The winner will be announced on Monday, July 23 at 10 a.m. via the VooDoo Facebook page: www.facebook.com/aflvoodoo.

Philadelphia Soul Take Over The Buck Hotel

The Arena Football League-leading Philadelphia Soul (14-3) will be holding a "Town Takeover" of Feasterville, PA on Saturday, July 21 from 3-5 p.m. The Town Takeover, presented by Susquehanna Bank, will take place at the Buck Hotel, located at 1200 Buck Road.
The event will be free to the public, and feature a "run-through" practice by the Philadelphia Soul. This will be the team's last practice before the Soul take on the Utah Blaze (12-5) on Sunday, July 22, with kickoff scheduled for 6:05 p.m. at the Wells Fargo Center. During the practice, random residents will be asked to participate by "running plays" with the Soul team.
There will be a live band performance before and after the practice. In addition to Soul players and coaches, there will be appearances by the Soul mascot, SoulMan, the Soulmates dance team, Soul ownership and front office staff. After the practice, fans will be able to meet Soul players and Soulmates who will be signing autographs.
"A championship team, like the Soul, coming to the Buck Hotel is a big deal," said hotel owner Brian Ruhling, Jr. "We are inviting anyone who has ever enjoyed the Buck to attend this incredible event."
The Soul game the night after the Town Takeover on Sunday, July 22 will be Feasterville Night at the Soul. Ticket order forms will be available at the event or by contacting Brian Evans at the Soul offices at 215-253-4900, ext. 181 or bevans@philadelphiasoul.com.

Thursday, July 12, 2012

Orlando Predators and Fifth Third Bank Collecting School Supplies

The Orlando Predators and Fifth Third Bank's Summer of Dreams are teaming up for a Back-to-School drive benefiting homeless children in Orlando and the surrounding areas.
Any Predator fan that brings $10 worth of school supplies to the Milwaukee Mustangs game on Sunday, July 22nd or writes a check for $10 payable to "Orlando After School All-Stars - Summer of Dreams" will receive a $30 ticket to the Orlando Predators game that kicks off at 2:00 p.m.
In addition, the Predators will conduct a 50/50 raffle during the game to benefit Fifth Third Bank's Summer of Dreams program.
Fifth Third Bank's Summer of Dreams program provides homeless children in the Central Florida community access to free, nutritious meals; daily activities focusing on academics, art enrichment and athletics; tutoring and mentoring; financial counseling for parents; and much more. In its first year, Summer of Dreams reached 1,078 kids in Orange County, and the program has expanded to reach children in Seminole and Osceola counties as well.
To find a Fifth Third Bank location convenient to you, please visit www.53.com. To learn more about the Summer of Dreams program visit www.thesummerofdreams.com.

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Mustangs give back to Children's Hospital of Wisconsin on July 14

The Milwaukee Mustangs are excited to announce that $2 of every Mustangs ticket sold for Saturday, July 14 at the BMO Harris Bradley Center will be donated to Children's Hospital of Wisconsin.
The Mustangs celebrate their last home game of the season Saturday night when they take on the Chicago Rush in the border war. This game will feature a pregame Stang Fest tailgate party outside the arena for fan appreciation night. The party starts at 5 p.m. and kickoff is set for 8 p.m. Join us for food, drinks, music and more for the end-of-the-season party.

AFL Announces AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV Sweepstakes

As the Arena Football League celebrates its Silver Anniversary Championship game, Arena Football fans will have the opportunity to enter the AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV Sweepstakes for a chance to win a trip for two to ArenaBowl XXV in New Orleans, the League office announced today.
The prize package includes travel to New Orleans for one winner and a guest to attend AVITAE ArenaBowl XXV on August 10. The winner will also receive two tickets to both the ArenaBowl XXV Silver Anniversary Gala and Commissioner’s Tailgate party, as well as two nights’ hotel accommodations for the game and festivities. They will also receive special access to ArenaBowl XXV Media Day at the New Orleans Arena.
Fans may submit one entry per valid email address at www.arenafootball.com/avitaesweepstakes for the chance to be randomly selected as the AVITAE Sweepstakes Grand Prize winner. The deadline for submissions is July 20, 2012 at 11 a.m. CT.

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

CIFL Acquired by Indoor Football Incorporated

The Saginaw Sting is proud to announce the acquisition of the Continental Indoor Football League by Indoor Football Incorporated. Indoor Football Incorporated, solely owned by the members of the Sting's ownership group (Stuart Schweigert, Robert Licht, and James O'Brien), came to terms with former CIFL Owner Jeff Spitaleri earlier this month.
"This is an exciting development for our league and for the future of the CIFL," said Spitaleri, "I look forward to working with the staff and board of directors as the league undergoes this great transformation."
The transformation was set in place immediately concluding the CIFL Championship victory by the Sting back on June 2nd. "We have talked at great lengths with the owners of all the current teams within the CIFL," said Robert Licht - Co-Owner of the Sting and Indoor Football Incorporated. "This move was made for the betterment of the entire league and not just our team. We want each team in the CIFL to be able to embrace the business plan we have developed here in Saginaw and be just as successful."
Success came in multiple ways for the Sting in 2012. After the local ownership group, which includes two local business owners and a former NFL player, acquired the rights to operate the Sting in late 2011 the local community began to take notice of significant changes. The Sting players attended multiple events, including assemblies and read-a-thons at local schools, and helped to raise awareness and proceeds for the Children's Miracle Network, Muscular Dystrophy Association, and several others. A special fundraising effort was set up to support a local critically injured soldier (Travis Mills, from Vassar) that netted the raising of over $13,000. Their undefeated season was capped off in front of a record-setting attendance of 3,851 fans at the CIFL Championship game. The following week the announcement was made that Hemlock High School were the recipients of new varsity football jerseys for showing their support to the Sting during the season.
"We want this league to become the premier indoor football league in the country," said Co-Owner and former NFL player Stuart Schweigert, "That begins with building a league that is full of solid, competitive teams from top to bottom."
"This move will provide the structure and stability needed to make the CIFL a viable entertainment option for both sponsors and fans," said Co-Owner James O'Brien, "Fans want solid organizations and sponsors will look to back teams that have great fan support. Currently underway is an assessment of the current standing of all teams within the CIFL and further expansion to new markets. Details regarding these negotiations are not available at this time; however, the future of the CIFL is bright."
The CIFL will begin its 8th consecutive season in February of 2013.

This Week in the IFL Presents United Bowl Preview Show

A champion will be crowned in the Indoor Football League this weekend.
The countdown is on to the 2012 United Bowl as the Tri-Cities Fever meet the Sioux Falls Storm for the third time this season this Saturday, July 14 at the Sioux Falls Arena.
Fans can get a special preview of the big game with an edition of This Week In The IFL as host Denis J. Puska speaks to both starting quarterbacks Chris Dixon of the Storm and Houston Lillard of the Fever.
Dixon will talk about the difference in the Storm from last season to this year and what he expects the keys to game will be. Lillard chats about what his team has learned from last year's United Bowl appearance and more on his brother being drafted in the NBA.
This Week In The IFL is brought to you by Puska Media Services, a communications, production web-content business for sports teams and leagues. To listen to the broadcast click here

The LFL Furthers International TV Presense In Asia With ESPN Star Sports Partnership

The Lingerie Football League, LLC. (or ‘LFL’) continues to extend its international presence with a new television partnership with Asia’s biggest sports content provider, ESPN STAR Sports.
This announcement comes on the heels of one of the most active weeks in league history in relation to international television partnerships which included top Brazilian sports network Bandsports as well as the appointment of leading Asian media rights agency, Total Sports Asia this week. The LFL is expected to draw even more international broadcast partnerships through 2012 as league officials set their sights on international growth through television.
“This wave of interest from prominent national sports networks not only speaks to the global momentum building around our game, but also that it is now on the fast-track to becoming recognized as a sport, not just merely entertainment. It has been personally rewarding to see our game translate across so many borders in so little time”, said, Mitchell S. Mortaza, Founder & Chairman, Lingerie Football League, LLC.
Said Craig Dobbs, ESPN STAR Sports’ Executive Vice President of Production and Programming: “We are pleased to showcase new and engaging content, with this partnership with LFL, we continue to offer a wide variety of compelling world-class sports in Taiwan.”.
“We have succeeded in securing some very significant broadcast partnerships for the LFL and we are very pleased to be working with ESPN STAR Sports to showcase this exciting event in a market where American sports has strong traction.”
About ESPN STAR Sports
ESPN STAR Sports is a 50:50 joint venture between two of the world’s leading cable and satellite broadcasters. As Asia’s biggest sports content provider, ESPN STAR Sports combines the strengths and resources of its parent companies – Walt Disney (ESPN, Inc.) and News Corporation Limited (STAR) – to deliver a diverse array of international and regional sports to fans across multiple platforms.
ESPN STAR Sports features a comprehensive portfolio of multimedia assets including its television networks (ESPN, STAR Sports, STAR Cricket, ESPNEWS, ESPN HD, STAR Cricket HD), broadband network (ESPN Player), digital content services (espnstar.com, mobileESPN), and its on-ground Event Management Group with the aim to engage and entertain sports fans anytime, anyplace.
ESPN STAR Sports showcases an unparalleled variety of premier sports from around the globe featuring some of the most iconic sports events to viewers across 24 countries in Asia through its 25 television networks and 3 broadband networks, each localized to deliver differentiated programming to meet diverse needs of Asian sports fans.

Jacksonville Sharks Help Raise More Than $30,000 for Armed Forces Families Foundation

When the ArenaBowl XXIV Champion Jacksonville Sharks defeated the Iowa Barnstormers on Saturday, May 19, it was not only the team that emerged with a victory. On Military Appreciation Night, the Sharks and Taco Bell helped raise $30,151 to be donated to the Armed Forces Families Foundation. The Sharks will formally present their donation to AFFF during the team’s Saturday, July 14 game against the Orlando Predators.
Representatives from AFFF announced that the Sharks’ contribution will be used to directly support the foundation’s current project at Naval Air Station Jacksonville. This initiative includes the construction of two age-appropriate playgrounds, a renovation of the facility’s family pavilion and the addition of electricity and other amenities to the pavilion.
“This year’s Military Appreciation Night was a tremendous success,” Sharks Partner and Air Force Veteran Larry Payne said. “Thanks to the generosity of our fans and our partnership with Taco Bell, our contribution to AFFF will directly benefit many of the service personnel in our local community.”
A large portion of the donation came courtesy of the team’s postgame jersey auction. The Sharks wore unique digital camouflage jerseys on Military Appreciation Night, and following the game each player’s jersey was auctioned during the on-field postgame autograph session.
Beyond the auction, the Sharks spearheaded a number of other initiatives to increase the impact of the event. At SharkFest before the game, the team offered special Military Appreciation Night t-shirts in exchange for a small donation. The shirts sold out prior to the start of the game. The Attack Dance Team also accepted donations as they autographed their new military posters as fans entered the arena.
Proceeds from the auction and pregame initiatives totaled $18,021. In addition, Taco Bell aided the Sharks in boosting Military Appreciation Night by giving fans the opportunity to donate in exchange for a coupon for a free taco. Between all participating restaurant locations and Taco Bell’s display at SharkFest, this specific initiative generated an additional $12,130.
“The Sharks’ owners, support staff and players have been incredibly positive and supportive of this effort to help local military families,” local Taco Bell franchisee Thaddeus Foster said. “Their fans are amazing, and their support has made all the difference in completing this project.”
Foster added that the partnership with the Sharks was the most successful partnership that Taco Bell has had since beginning work with AFFF.

Monday, July 9, 2012

2012 United Bowl Preview

The Sioux Falls Storm (16-0) will host the Tri-Cities Fever (14-2) in United Bowl 2012 this Saturday at the Sioux Falls Arena and looks to claim its 6th title in 8 years. Waterbury Coleman is the proud sponsor of the game, which is slated to kick-off at 7:35 PM CT..
Subaru of Sioux Falls is the presenting sponsor of the night's halftime show , which stars Show Baby. Fans can expect the most ambitious and spectacular show of the season.
The Sioux Falls Storm defeated the Green Bay Blizzard 61-42 in the United Conference Championship game. The victory over the Blizzard punched the Storm's ticket to United Bowl 2012. The game will be a rematch of last year's Championship game as the Tri-Cities Fever will return to the Storm Shelter.
Chris Dixon was named the IFL MVP just before last week's conference championship game. Dixon on the season led the league in Passer Rating with 133.3 and threw for over 3300 yards. He also put up 67 touchdown passes to just 7 interceptions. In the playoffs Dixon has a rating of 154.9 with 13 touchdown passes to 0 interceptions in just 2 games.
The Fever are led Houston Lillard who had a season rating of 112.5. He threw for over 2700 yards with 59 touchdowns to 10 interceptions. The Fever beat the Wild last week in the Intense Conference Championship 51-30. In that game Lillard threw for 2 touchdowns for 141 yards.
The Storm and Fever have met three times since the end of the 2011 regular season. In the 2011 United Bowl the Storm had their first ever meeting with the Fever. The Storm defeated the Fever 37-10 for the Storm's fifth championship as a franchise. Earlier this year on May 12, the Fever returned to the Storm Shelter where the undefeated Storm handed the Fever their first defeat of the season with a 55-16 victory. Two weeks later on May 26, the Storm traveled to Washington to take on the Fever in Tri Cities winning 73-72 in an overtime battle.
The Storm and Fever will meet for the forth time in history and third time this season on July 14, 2012 for United Bowl 2012. The Fever has one championship in the team's history and that was with the NIFL in 2005. The Storm has had Five National Titles: (UIFL) 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, and (IFL) 2011. The Storm looks for its Sixth National Championship as a franchise and first perfect season since 2007.
"We had one goal for 2012, and that was to defend our title," said Storm Owner, Todd Tryon. "Tri-Cities has once again proven to be the best team in the IFL to prevent this from happening. We are extremely excited to host the United Bowl 2012. This will be the biggest show in town!"
Thanks to all the fans for your overwhelming support of the Sioux Falls Storm this season. Fans that are interested in watching a live broadcast of the game can watch the game on MidcoSN, online via B2 or listen on KOOL 107.9 FM.

Saturday, July 7, 2012

New Orleans VooDoo Answer Young Boy's Dream

Last Saturday, when the New Orleans VooDoo played the Jacksonville Sharks in The Graveyard, 21 players ran out of the tunnel. But, there was no one more special than 8-year-old Alex Oxford.
Alex was diagnosed with Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) in May 2012. ALD is an incurable disease that affects the brain in boys and men. This disease destroys the myelin, which is a protective layer that surrounds the brains' neurons. Without this layer, the brain cannot function properly. Those diagnosed with ALD also have a 98 percent chance to have Addison-Schilder's disease.
"There are no words to describe this situation," Carissa Oxford, Alex's mother, said. "Your entire world is flipped upside down, and I just need to stay strong and have faith in God."
Before Alex was diagnosed with ALD, he was misdiagnosed for ADHD back in 2010. Doctors prescribed Alex every ADHD medication, but nothing worked. The Oxford family realized something was wrong when Alex suddenly got sick while he and his dad went to go get baseball equipment.
"Alex normally gets real car sick," Carissa said. "But, this time, he got sick a second time and couldn't talk or walk so we knew something was wrong."
Two weeks later, Alex got sick again at school and Alex and his family went straight to Children's Hospital in New Orleans. Results stated that he had a seizure, and the white matter of this brain was inflamed. Alex had a discharged diagnosis on April 23 and had pending blood work with ADEM vs. ALD. Alex was diagnosed with ALD on May 9, 2012.
Although Alex may be diagnosed with ALD, it doesn't stop him from being the 8-year-old boy who loves sports. Alex got the opportunity to go out on the field and be a part of the coin toss for the VooDoo and the Sharks game in The Graveyard.
"I picked tales and the VooDoo won the toss," Alex said. "Whenever I walked on the field I thought it was going to be real grass! Throwing the coin was awesome, but my favorite part was when I got to go in the suites."
Not only did Alex flip the coin before the game, but he also got to go in the locker room and meet some of the VooDoo players and the coach, play on the field, and run out of the tunnel and out onto the field with JLB Alvin Ray Jackson.
"I enjoyed spending time with him," Jackson said. "We got to throw the football before the game, and I took him to meet some of the guys. I wanted to do whatever I could for him to enjoy himself, and I think I had more fun than he did."
Alex's family was very grateful for the opportunity for Alex to be part of the VooDoo family for last week's game.
"It really meant a lot to him," Gene Oxford, Alex's father, said. "It was our first game, and it made Alex feel personal and warm inside."
Alex and his family also got the chance to go to Disney World for the first time thanks to the Make a Wish Foundation. Alex's dream of playing football with quarterback Drew Brees also came true this year.
"Alex's dream was to throw a football with Drew Brees," Carissa said. "It was amazing to watch that dream come true. I don't think I've ever seen his face that bright, and nothing could take that glory away."
For the Oxford family, their main focus is to spend as much time as they can with Alex. Alex and his family will travel to Minnesota this week because Alex is a candidate for a bone marrow transplant, which will do one of two things. It will either halt the disease or speed up the disease by two years. This will be the third trip to Minnesota for Alex and his parents, and they will be there for three to six months.
For more information on the disease ALD, visit www.stopald.org. Donations for research on ALD can also be made on the website. For more information on Alex, visit his page Alex's Angels on Facebook.

Friday, July 6, 2012

Philadelphia Soul to Host Charity Flip Cup Tournament

The Eastern Division Champion Philadelphia Soul (13-3) and Xfinity Live! will host the World's Largest Flip Cup Game for charity Sunday, July 8 at Xfinity Live! before their game against the Spokane Shock.
The flip cup game was initiated as a way to collect as many Red Solo Cups as possible for the Solo Cup Brigade, the Soul's Community Service Initiative for the game July 8.
Proceeds from the cups purchased and turned in will go to the Wilford Hall Fisher House.
The Wilford Hall Fisher House is a home-away-from-home for families of seriously ill or injured service men and women receiving treatment at the Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center, San Antonio Military Medical Center or other medical facilities in the San Antonio Area.
To participate in the game players can either donate $1 to receive a Red Solo Cup or bring their own RSC to donate (only Red Solo Cups are valid). Red Solo Cups will be available to the first 500 registrants. Registration will begin at noon outside of Victory Beer Hall where participants will be designated to one of two teams.
In addition to the entry fee donation, the Soul and Xfinity Live! will turn in the Red Solo Cups to Terra Cycle who will give up to $0.10 per cup collected for one large donation to the Wilford Hall Fisher House.
Water will be provided for the game and beer can be used if purchased from Xfinity Live!
After the game is over, participants are invited to stick around and tailgate all the way up to the Soul game at 6:05 p.m. against the Spokane Shock and drop off your Red Solo Cups as you enter the arena to watch the game. The Red Solo Cups will be collected at the Broad St. and 11th St. entrances.
To learn more about the Wilford Hall Fisher House, visit their web site: www.fisherhouseinc.org

Philadelphia Soul to Host Military Job Fair on Sunday

The Philadelphia Soul and the Greater Philadelphia Veterans Network announce that they will co-host a Military job fair on Sunday, July 8 during the Soul Military Appreciation Night.
"This is a great opportunity for military veterans that are currently searching for work in the Philadelphia area," said Soul COO/VP John Adams. "This is a perfect fit for a night set to honor and support our servicemen and women."
The job fair will take place on the Broad Street Mezzanine level starting at halftime and running through the end of the third quarter. You must have proof of Military service to participate. Up to 10 local companies will be on hand for the job fair including Septa, Prodigal Security, First Financial, CINTAS, New York Life, the Philadelphia Police Department and more.
The Greater Philadelphia Veterans Network is a non-profit organization whose primary mission is to provide pre-employment education and career services to transitioning military service members and local veterans; to ensure veterans have programs and initiatives available to accelerate their job search.
All active and retired military personnel receive a free ticket to the July 8 game with proof of service, including military identification. Family of military servicemen and women will receive a special rate of $20 per ticket. Kickoff is set for 6:05 p.m.
The night will include a program designed to honor the men and women who fight to preserve our freedom. The program will include an in-game salute of honor to all the servicemen and women in the crowd from Brigadier General John L. Gronski of the Unites States Army. Lieutenant Justin Legg of the US Navy Seals (retired) will wrap up the night with at 20-minute post-game inspirational speech.
If you are an active or retired member of any branch of the United States Armed Forces, tickets are available in advance at www.PhiladelphiaSoul.Com/USA, by calling the Soul offices at 215-253-4900, ext. 3, or the day of the game at the Wells Fargo Center box office.

Thursday, July 5, 2012

Pittsburgh Power Open Practice At Market Square

The Pittsburgh Power invites you to their first annual Market Square Makeover on Friday, July 6th at 12:00pm. Fans will get a sneak peak at the starting line-up for the Power and watch them game-plan their upcoming match-up against the Tampa Bay Storm. Spectators will also be able to win game tickets & Power merchandise & get autographs from their favorite players & coaches.

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Philadelphia Soul Take over Elmwood Park Zoo Saturday

The Eastern Division Champion, Philadelphia Soul (13-3) will be holding a "Town Takeover" of the Elmwood Park Zoo on Saturday, July 7 from Noon-5 p.m. The Town Takeover, presented by Susquehanna Bank, will take place at 1661 Harding Blvd., Norristown, PA 19401.
The practice will be free to the public, and feature a "run-through" practice by the Philadelphia Soul. This will be the team's last practice before the Soul take on the Spokane Shock (8-7) on Sunday, July 8, with kickoff scheduled for 6:05 p.m. at the Wells Fargo Center.
The Philadelphia Soul practice, which does not require zoo admission, will begin in the upper level parking lot outside the zoo at 2:30 p.m. During the practice, random attendees will be asked to participate by "running plays" with the Soul team.
After the practice, fans will be able to meet Soul players and Soulmates who will be signing autographs inside the zoo. There will also be face painters, inflatables, and pony rides!
Just present your ticket stub or flyer from the June 24 game, your ticket for the July 8 game, or proof of 'Franchise Fan' status and you will receive $7 discounted admission into the zoo. In keeping with the Soul's 'Military Appreciation' theme for the July 8 game, military members receive free zoo admission with proof of service.
Soul fans are invited to visit the animals and take part in all the activities and performances the Soul have going on inside the zoo throughout the afternoon, starting at noon, including performances by the Soulmates, the Soul Squad and the Philadelphia Spinners' Fly Girls. There will be live music before and after the practice. In addition to Soul players and coaches, there will be appearances by the Soul mascot, SoulMan, the Soulmates dance team and front office staff.