In the latest chapter of American football’s history, the Arena Football League (AFL) is announcing its comeback, set for just a few months from now. The 16 cities that will host the rejuvenated AFL have been disclosed, bringing together a blend of time-honored markets and fresh teams.
AFL selected cities are as follows
–Austin
–Boise
–California (will play in Bakersfield)
–Chicago
–Colorado (will play in Denver)
–Minnesota (will play in St. Paul)
–Louisiana (will play in Lake Charles)
–Ohio (will play in Cincinnati)
–Orlando
–Oregon (will play in Salem)
–Philadelphia
–St. Louis
–Tallahassee
–Tennessee (will play in Nashville)
–Washington (will play in Everett)
–West Texas (will play in Odessa)
AFL Commissioner Lee A. Hutton III expressed his pride in revealing the cities that will serve as the backbone of the league’s fresh chapter. He said, “Fans in each community will have the opportunity to come together and create new identities, new traditions, and new memories to help catapult our league to thrilling heights.”
Back in 1987, the AFL was born as a four-team league, housing the Pittsburgh Gladiators, Denver Dynamite, Washington Commandos, and Chicago Bruisers. The league had its moments of glory and expansion before it had to shutter operations a few years back.
This February, the AFL hinted at its return in 2024 with a 10-game season. Yet, crucial details such as team names or ownership groups remain under wraps. We could see familiar faces in the owner’s box for the AFL’s return.
The AFL’s forthcoming chapter is certainly raising anticipation among fans and football enthusiasts. As we await more details, one can’t help but wonder if the relaunch will reclaim the AFL’s past glory and infuse a new spirit into indoor football. Only time will tell.
