NAIFL - All Canadian Indoor League?

[afdave]

http://www.naifl.ca

I got this from an article in a newspaper about the Sask team.

Any validity to this league? The website seems kind of amateurish, especially in that they are asking for investors for all the cities.

Seems like a guy fishing for people to form a league to me, unless I'm missing something here.

[Bill]

Well at least they made the papers in Saskatoon.. :)

I did notice the latest press release was over 4 months ago in December 2003...

What else did the article in Saskatoon say?

Here's wishing them the best...

Or maybe it's time for AF2 Canada.. lol

[Shootmaster_44]

Honestly, I'm not sure if this league will fly as I doubt appearing in the Saskatoon Star-Phoenix gives it any cred. The Star-Phoenix seems to jump on board any league that seems to have a slight chance of getting off the ground. I have heard of so many different pro hockey leagues over the years I can't even remember the various alphabet soup of abbreviations that have been used. Needless to say I have attended ever incarnation that has actually gotten off the ground. There have been quite a few surprisingly, three different baseball leagues and three different basketball leagues. This would mark only the second pro football league I have heard mentioning Saskatoon aside from the CFL's major dreaming.

The NAIFL itself seems to have forgotton the most key rule that I would think a franchise would use to attract fans, a name-the-team contest. Why do leagues constantly pre-name teams? This would mark the third league that has mentioned Saskatoon (Canadian Baseball League, Federal Hockey League and now this) that has not let the fans pick the name. I think it puts media exposure out the league and the franchise and helps out to attract the fairweather fans who don't otherwise frequent sites such as this.

As for the league itself I think the cities it has picked are decent although the arenas are a little lofty. Each one has a hockey team as its primary tennant and since the NAIFL does not want to interfere with the CFL's season, it is running February to April. This is right in the middle of hockey season. I lived in Toronto during the Phantoms ill-fated 2002 AFL season. That year their games were jerked around the schedule due to the Leafs playoff run. It was so bad that I could not rearrange my work schedule to attend one game as it was never known when exact the Phantoms would kick-off. It was up to the whims of the Leafs.

Victoria Valor - Save-On-Foods Centre - Home to the ECHL expansion Victoria Salmon Kings and seats 7,000. No real alternative arena in Victoria regardless if the NAIFL wanted to find one.

Vancouver Victory - General Motors Place - Home to the NHL's Vancouver Canucks and the NLL's Vancouver Ravens. It seats around 18,000 and that might seem cavernous if the Victory fail to draw very well. Alternatively, they could use the Pacific Coliseum which has a capacity of 7,000 and is only home to the WHL's Vancouver Giants.

Calgary Crusade - Pengrowth Saddledome - Home to the NHL's Calgary Flames, WHL's Calgary Hitmen and NLL's Calgary Roughnecks. It seats over 17,000 and I have attended a Roughnecks game and it does seem cavernous when the crowd is not into the game. Alternatively, the Crusade could use the Stampede Corral which seats 7,242. It currently is not occupied by any major tennant which would make it easy for the NAIFL to become the primary tennant.

Edmonton Extreme - Rexall Centre - Home to the NHL's Edmonton Oilers and seats over 18,000 people. There is a smaller venue also on the Northlands Park called the Northlands Agricom which seats around 4,000 and is currently used for trade shows and other events. The last major tenant of the Agricom was the Edmonton Ice of the WHL.

Saskatoon Swarm - Saskatchewan Place - Home to the WHL's Saskatoon Blades and seats 11,300. However, the Blades have the rights of first refusal of dates for their season and since most players in the WHL are school aged, many games are played on weekends, which may place a problem in NAIFL's schedule, as it did to the FHL's.

Regina Rage - Regina Agridome - Home to the WHL's Regina Pats and seats 7,000. This would be ideal for the NAIFL, but I believe the Pats have a right to refuse other tenants for the Agridome, if they feel it would somehow interfere with their ticket sales. So this could potentially interfere with their plans.

Winnipeg War - MTS Centre - Home to the AHL's Manitoba Moose and is scheduled to open this fall in time for the Moose's home opener. It will seat 15,015 people and would be ideal as a showcase arena for the NAIFL, if they can fill the arena. If not, it seems the newer the arena the more cavernous they seem when empty.

Ottawa Omega - Corel Centre - Home to the NHL's Ottawa Senators and currently seats 18,500 people. Seems to me the building has terrible entrances/exits from the parking lots and is out in the middle of nowhere. I would suggest that the Omega would be better off playing in the Ottawa Civic Centre currently occupied by the OHL's Ottawa 67's. This building was once shared between the 67's and the NLL's Rebels and in 1992 the 67's and the Senators. So it can be done and it holds 10,174 people which is more than adequate for this league.

Toronto Terror - Air Canada Centre - Home to the NHL's Toronto Maple Leafs, the NBA's Toronto Raptors and the NLL's Toronto Rock. It currently holds 18,800 and was a great venue for Arena Football. But the Phantoms played fourth fiddle when it came to building scheduling for the ACC. A better venue for the NAIFL would be the RICOH Coliseum at Exhibition Place. It is currently home the AHL's Toronto Roadrunners and holds 8,300 people. It is also in a central downtown location and has less scheduling problems. It would be a better venue for a league like this.

Quebec Quantum - Colisee Pepsi - Home to the QMJHL's Quebec Ramparts and currently holds 15,399. This would be an ideal venue for the league since Quebec as a province seems to be football mad. The only question is would they be drawn to the arena game?

Montreal Machete - Bell Centre - Home to the NHL's Montreal Canadiens and currently holds 21,500. This arena is too large for the NAIFL. I am unsure what arena the Montreal Rocket formerly of the QMJHL used. But if there is another arena in the Greater Montreal Area for the Machete to use I would recommend using it. There is no way in a fickle city like Montreal that minor league arena football would draw anywhere near 21,500 people to the Bell Centre. The set-up would be terrible for the league.

Fredericton Feud - Aitken Centre - Home to the AUAA's University of New Brunswick Reds and currently holds 3,458. This would be nearly the smallest arena in the league, but also possibly the best suited for the league. I am unsure whether there is open ends that would be easily suited for football though.

Halifax Havoc - Halifax Metro Centre - Home to the QMJHL's Halifax Mooseheads and also the CIS Men's Elite 8 Basketball Finals in March. It currently holds over 10,000 and would be well suited for arena football in my opinion from what I have seen from tv footage.

St. John's Storm - Mile One Stadium - Home to the AHL's St. John's Maple Leafs and holds 5,811 people. This sized stadium would be about the size that I think the NAIFL would be looking for much larger and the arena would look to empty, much smaller and their profit margin would be too thin.

Overall, I think the league is setting its sights too high at least in its arena goals.

[Bill]

Well... I think we know who to look for if we have any questions about Arena's in Canada.. :D

I'm not sure of the thought process behind already giving the teams nicknames.. Especially if there are no "owners" as of yet... If the league gets off the ground I wouldn't be suprised if many of those are changed..

But were'nt they clever making sure the first letter of each nickname matched the first letter of the city they were to be placed in.. :wink:

Mostly.. Thanks for all that info...

[Pounder]

I understand that the current rumour (ah, fun using the King's English for the first time in a little while) is that the Saskatoon Blades may get moved to Edmonton due to financially getting killed at Saskatchewan Place. The Blades may move to Rexall (the Hitmen in Calgary are doing reasonably well at the Saddledome).

Don't know how that factors in, just had to point it out.

[statman77]

Why doesn't the North American Indoor Football League chanege their name to the Canadian Indoor Football League?

[Shootmaster_44]

I hadn't heard any such rumors of the Blades moving to Edmonton. But that would certainly free up Sask Place if it did. But an interview with the Blades owner Jack Brodsky I read in the Star-Phoenix said he had no intention of ever moving the Blades.

[Bill]

Why doesn't the North American Indoor Football League chanege their name to the Canadian Indoor Football League?

I would guess the reason they chose the NAIFL..
The possible future..

It would be easier to convince and lure a team from their neighbors to the south with their current name...

Unless of course.. Maybe someone else already has the CIFL name under trademark or registered or whatever would tie that name up..

That's my best guess

[statman77]

Do you know who has the CIFL title?

[Shootmaster_44]

INDOOR OUT: Forget rumours that the fledgling North American Indoor Football League is about to set up shop in Winnipeg next January. According to its website, Winnipeg was named as one of 14 potential Canadian sites as it is reportedly about to unveil its plans within the next few days. But neither the Bombers nor the Manitoba Moose, who are about to move into a new arena where such a league would be played seem to be involved.

"I know there was some mention of it in a Calgary paper," said Bomber CEO/president Lyle Bauer, adding that the Bombers are not involved. "I know there was some talk about a professional indoor league coming here awhile ago but I think that league either folded or changed its name. Certainly, it's not the (Arena Football League) or AFL2."

Winnipeg Goldeyes owner Sam Katz was involved in those talks but said such a venture would not work without getting the rights to the concessions or the signage from the Moose.

"I have heard nothing about it," said Moose GM Craig Heisinger.
http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam040424/cfl_wpg-sun.html

This is something I found today from the April 24th Winnipeg Sun. It looks like the NAIFL had some credibility, but is toast as far as Winnipeg goes. Incidentally, I was looking at their website today and it appears that it is gaining small sponsors for the league. If you pick certain teams, Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, Halifax and Saskatoon and watch the ad at the bottom, you will notice different ads. I don't know if this means anything but it might. The biggest one I noticed was that Football BC, the amateur football governing body in BC has signed on for the Vancouver team (Victoria's webpage has the exact same ads so I'm not sure there).

[Shootmaster_44]

I emailed all the sponsors listed on their webpages asking them about the league and their involvement with the league. I also emailed all the arenas shown and asked if there have been any talks of leases here are some of the replies I received:

Speedfast Color Press Inc. (listed on Edmonton's page) -

Claude Durand (cdurand@speedfast.com)

We have no association with NAIFL we have ask them to take are name from any
web and print material associated with them.

CKER (also on Edmonton's page) -

Cameron Smith (cameronsmith@cker.com)

CKER is not an investor in the league, or any franchises. However, we have made a commitment to try to help get things going, and that is why we're currently on the website.

As far as I know, the league will begin play in 2005, and is legit. They are currently looking for sponsors in all of the cities, so if you would like to help out, then pass the word on! Hopefully, we'll all be watching some exciting indoor football!


Cameron Smith
CKER Sports Director

Mayfair Diagnostics (listed on both Calgary and Edmonton's pages)
Your email was forwarded to me and I read it with curiosity as I have visited their site and don’t see our name listed as one of the league sponsors. You have piqued my curiosity.

We don’t own a franchise nor are we primary investors. I have been receiving emails from this group asking for us to become sponsors but so far, we have not committed to anything which is why I was surprised that we are supposedly on there.

Would you be so kind as to email me back the link where we appear so that I can contact the NAIFL to discuss.

I can’t speak to the legitimacy at all. I know they have an Edmonton phone number which you could try calling for more information.

--------------------------------------------

Sylvia Wright

Community Relations Manager

Mayfair Diagnostics

Finally, I received this reply from Ken Wood at Saskatchewan Place, where the Saskatoon franchise would play.

Ken Wood (kwood@saskatchewanplace.com)

We have only had one conversation with one of the organizers. That puts us
ahead of most of the other arenas though. Up to that point they had only
discussed their league with the Edmonton arena.

Thank you for your interest.

Ken Wood, C.A.
General Manager
Saskatchewan Place

So aside from CKER, it looks that the NAIFL, is not on good terms with it supposed "sponsors." I will keep you posted on any more developments I receive from other arenas or sponsors in the days ahead. I could not find a email address on the NAIFL's webpage, so I cannot pass these along to whoever is running the league. Come to think of it, do we even know who is running this league? I am not trying to run this venture into the ground, rather I am trying to see if anyone should get their hopes up on this one. Maybe I am the only one who has gotten their hopes up on this one.

Let's see I could be gullable as each time professional (fill-in-the-blank-here) and Saskatoon are mentioned, I do get excited. I was on board for the Global Hockey League/Continental Hockey Association's Saskatchewan Force, the first incarnation of the Canadian Baseball League's Saskatoon Spirit, the rumoured moving of the IHL's San Francisco Spiders, the NCL/Prairie League's Saskatoon Riot/Smokin' Guns/Stallions, the WBL's Saskatchewan Storm, the NBL's Saskatoon Slam, the IBA/CBA's Saskatchewan Hawks, the FHL's Saskatoon Warriors, the rumoured RHI expansion team, the rumoured Canadian Indoor Football League team, the CBL's Saskatoon Yellow Jackets/Legends, the many different proposed hockey leagues Wild Bill Hunter wanted to start and seems to me I was even on board for a professional rugby league team someone had mentioned. I think there were others too. How many came to fruition? 2 baseball clubs and 3 basketball clubs. Last year we even lost our only FREE professional sports event, the Great Northern River Road Power Boat Race. We got it back for this year but, I think people will be skeptical now. I should stop being so gung-ho about these leagues.

[Magnum357]

I must say, you really did a great job trying too contact these people if the NAIFL is really legitamit.

Although I do agree that its extremely early too say this league is for real, I would like too point out that with the information you provided is much more then what I have ever seen of the APFL or the proposed UIFL two years ago. It seems a few people involved with this league are trying too at least contact sponsers and arenas, that is more then what I can say for the UIFL which seems too have just fell over and turned too dust.

Ya never know, this league may suprise us.

[Shootmaster_44]

I must say, you really did a great job trying too contact these people if the NAIFL is really legitamit.


Ya never know, this league may suprise us.

Thanks

I received an email yesterday from the Corel Centre which was nothing more than a confirmation that indeed they had discussions with the NAIFL. So I guess he's trying, I won't be too critical of that then. But my lone question is why? Canada is too big for a league of this magnitude unless they are travelling by train to games. That's what kills pro sports in this country is travel. But kudos to whoever is behind this league. The funny thing is I nary saw a single change to their website until I started making any contact with these people. In the last week, I've noticed subtle additions made. New pictures have been added, a new flash thing on each team page, which seems to highlight T&A unfortunately. Not something that sells the game, the XFL found that out the hard way. (excuse the pun)

I guess we'll wait and see what happens on this one. Aside from the one guy who seemed really upset nobody seemed to think this was a terrible idea or a scam so only time will tell. I'm not totally against the league I did submit an application to play, not that I've played in 3 years nor was it more than HS football either, but what the hell right? The APFL has former HSers on some of their teams playing for scratch. So it can't hurt to tryout.

[Bill]

Again.. Thanks for the info and effort...

I hope they get this thing off the ground and up and running...

Yes.. There is some selfishness in my desire to see them make a go of it.. IE- More Electric Football Men to paint..

And being from the breadbasket of the USA I'll be rooting for a team from the breadbasket of Canada... Only thing is.. I may have to pick between Saskatoon or Regina.. Go Roughriders..

Only other comment... I think On Topic but an apple and oranges comparison... I worked at a lumber company in the early 80's when a company decided to hit the market hard with their line of storm doors.. They put practically every frigging lumber company and hardware store in their ad as places to "call" for these new storm doors.. We never carried the doors nor had any intention of every having them.. Our business was over 95% to contractors and it just didn't make sense to... Well we got a ton of calls for the things... And obviously what the company was trying to do... Was "show" us the "interest" in this product ... Well maybe he is just trying to show potential sponsors "interest" in his product..

Not saying its right.. Not saying its wrong.. :)
Good Luck to them though..

ABTW - The storm door company is still around and national and sells the snot out of storm doors.. lol.. But the lumber compay I worked for sold out many years ago..

[Shootmaster_44]

No problem.......and yeah I understand what you mean and I hope this gets off the ground. In a way I'm glad he changed the flash thing though and took the focus off the cheerleaders crotches that was a little much for my liking. I might even get more insider info than I thought. Just on a whim, not that I have any relevant experience in Professional Sports, I applied for a position with the league and apparently they liked what they saw and said they'd get back to me. So if I'm not sworn to secrecy on the league's happenings, I will try and get as much news out as possible and depending what sort of position, if any I were to get with the NAIFL, I'd make sure these news reports went into credible media so as not to end up looking like the IIHL.

[Shootmaster_44]

The Saskatoon Star-Phoenix confirmed that today that the NAIFL had been in contact with the Credit Union Centre (formerly Sask Place). This was confirmed by Scott Ford who is the Events and Marketing Manager there. He said that he hoped they reached a deal and that he thought Arena Football would work well in Saskatoon. On the other hand, Ken Woods, my contact at C.U.C. wouldn't comment on in the paper. So it appears Ken Woods is leery of the viability of the NAIFL, but I suppose I'm just guessing. Maybe he told them to get out and Scott Ford is only saying that yes they were here. *shrugs* Needless to say the NAIFL appears to be on the go.

[Shootmaster_44]

I also found this article Wednesday's Edmonton Sun

National arena league set to kick off

By MARIO ANNICCHIARICO -- Edmonton Sun

A national indoor football league is 7-10 days away from announcing its plans for a 2005 season that will incorporate 14 teams from coast to coast.

The North American Indoor Football League is expected to feature teams in Edmonton, Calgary, Victoria, Vancouver, Saskatoon, Regina, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, Quebec City, Montreal, Halifax, Fredericton and St. John's, says Billy Warwick Jr., who is involved in both the Edmonton Extreme franchise and the league itself.

"We are currently in the process of hiring a league president," added Warwick Jr., who has ironed out a contract with Northlands on the use of Rexall Place.

Former Rough Riders player and coach George Brancato is said to be involved in the Ottawa franchise. Negotiations are said to be underway with the Corel Centre.

The league is also fourth in line for use of the Air Canada Centre, behind the Maple Leafs, Raptors and NLL Rock, in Toronto.

"We've had nothing but a great relationship with Northlands and they've helped immensely with the basic proposals with the rest of the arenas," offered Warwick Jr.

"Feedback across the country has been very good and some of the smaller rinks are very excited about the prospect," he added.

The league is currently in search of corporate sponsorship and free-agent tryouts are to commence this winter.

"The NAIFL is committed to building a long-term entertaining football product coast to coast," it states on the league website - naifl.ca.

A press conference with further details on the national league is expected within 7-10 days, said Warwick Jr.

The NAIFL, separated into East and West divisions, will run from Feb. to June, with each team playing 13 home and away games. The top four clubs from each division will meet in the league championship the first week of June.


Looks like there are agreements already in place at Rexall Place and the ACC. The Corel Centre and Credit Union Centre (formerly Saskatchewan Place) seem to be soon to follow.

So far the arena situation is as follows:
Edmonton Extreme: Rexall Place - Confirmed
Saskatoon Swarm: Credit Union Centre - In Negotiations
Toronto Terror: Air Canada Centre - Confirmed
Ottawa Omega: Corel Centre - In Negotiations
The rest of the league has an unknown status as there has been no mention of negotiations one way or another.

[Shootmaster_44]

There was another article in the Edmonton Sun on Thursday

Campbell intrigued by league

By GERRY PRINCE -- Edmonton Sun

Edmonton Eskimos president and GM Hugh Campbell is the first to admit he doesn't know much about the North American Indoor Football League or Edmonton's entry in the 14-team Canadian league.

Still, the prospect of another professional football team in the City of Champions holds a certain appeal for the Edmonton Eskimos president and CEO.

"I have no background on it," Campbell said yesterday.

"Whatever is good for football is good for the Eskimos.

"I don't see it as anything harmful. But I don't know enough about it to get on the bandwagon yet."

The fledgling NAIFL is slated to begin operation in early 2005 and have franchises in Vancouver, Victoria, Edmonton, Calgary, Regina, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, Monteal, Quebec City, Halifax, Fredricton and St. John's.

Unconfirmed reports suggest former Esks great and CFL Hall of Fame quarterback Tom Wilkinson will serve as the indoor team's president.

Another ex Green and Gold player, Fred Bailey, is also reportedly connected to the Edmonton franchise that will be dubbed the Extreme.

An announcement regarding the NAIFL and the Extreme is expected within the next week to 10 days.

[Bill]

Thank You again for the info...

I certainly appreciate the news and hope you will continue to keep us up to date..

And I am positive I am not the only one..

:)

[Shootmaster_44]

I will do so, as for me I haven't heard anything back from the league since I got the vague response regarding employment. So I still am just a fan of the league and nothing more.

[Shootmaster_44]

The NAIFL held a press conference yesterday and sent out a press release. It is available at http://www.naifl.ca/HTM/newsrel.htm Essentially the main scoop out of it was that they named former Edmonton Eskimo QB Tom Wilkinson president. They also stated that General Managers, Head Coaches, team logos and team colors will be announced by the end of summer. They intend to have try-outs by September at local indoor soccer centres in each league city. They finally released the names of the arenas they are targeting to play in each of the cities:
Victoria - Saveon Foods Arena
Vancouver - GM Place
Edmonton - Rexall Place
Calgary - Pengrowth Saddledome
Saskatoon - Credit Union Centre (Formerly Saskatchewan Place)
Regina - Agridome
Winnipeg - MTS Centre
Toronto - Air Canada Centre
Ottawa - Corel Centre
Montreal - Bell Centre
Quebec - Pepsi Colisee
Fredericton - Aitken's Centre
Halifax - Metro Centre
St. John's - Mile One Stadium

Aside from a few dates and the naming of Tom Wilkinson as President not much new news out of the NAIFL. But since they are making this official, I guess this league is on track.[/quote]

[Shootmaster_44]

I found an article from the Edmonton Sun regarding the NAIFL's launch

http://www.canoe.ca/NewsStand/EdmontonSun/Sports/2004/06/16/501134.html

Loopy launch

TERRY JONES, EDMONTON SUN

It's harebrained. It had to be the most laughable, ludicrous, loony, loopy launch of a league ever. The North American Indoor Football League staged an official kickoff at Red's at West Edmonton Mall yesterday featuring the introduction of Tom Wilkinson as president.

You'd call it fly-by-night, but that would be an upgrade. It's a farcical, I'd go so far as to say fictitious, football league, although it does lead all leagues in alliteration.

It's the Victoria Valor, Vancouver Victory, Edmonton Extreme, Calgary Crusade, Saskatoon Swarm, Regina Rage, Winnipeg War, Toronto Terror, Ottawa Omega, Montreal Machete, Quebec Quantum, Fredericton Feud, Halifax Havoc and St. John's Storm.

How many beers, do you suppose, were involved in the naming of these teams?

Did anybody ask anybody in Winnipeg if they wanted to be the War?

Yesterday was April 1, right?

This has to be a practical joke.

There were no press conferences to launch the league in the other 13 centres yesterday. No arena arrangements have been made at GM Place, Rexall Place, Pengrowth Saddledome, Air Canada Centre, Corel Centre, Bell Centre, Pepsi Colisee, Metro Centre or any of the other locations the league lists as venues. The teams will have no owners. The league will own all the teams like the Canadian Baseball League, which lasted half a season last year. And unlike that league, this league has no visible backers, no visible financial investors.

There is no league office, although apparently they'll be looking at locations today.

There are 14 offices to be rented and furnished. There are 14 general managers, 14 head coaches, 14 receptionists, etc. to be hired. There are 14 arena deals to be done and they'll want guarantees. Lawyers will be required. You'll need 14 logos to be commissioned, 14 indoor football carpets, 14 sets of helmets, shoulder pads and other equipment to be purchased including 28 sets of uniforms. And then there are insurance policies to be paid, hotels, airlines and ground transportation to be paid in advance.

Start-up costs of this league before you play a game would be $20 million, minimum.

Show me the money.

William Warwick Jr. the head of what he calls the launch team, wasn't real good with that question in the media scrum after the grand announcement.

"The money is in place,'' he said.

Pressed, he couldn't point to a penny.

"I'm not interested in the money. It's not about money. We think it's about football.

"Our money is in place. We'll have the money. It will be in place. Budgets of $1.2 million per team are in place.''

Asked to name a single solitary backer, he named two. Tammy Warwick. And Allison Mandryk. Tammy is his wife.

Where is Wojtek Wojcicki or Donny Ast when you need them? You remember Wojtek, the Edmonton Drillers indoor league owner? You remember Ast, a.k.a. Nestor Pistor, who brought us the short white guy basketball league team?

Edmonton has never gone for any of these kind of leagues.

Remember roller hockey? Those all looked like well-thought-out, can't-miss deals compared with this.

Further pressed, Warwick said, "The budgets will be funded by sponsorships.''

Gold lifetime passes will be sold at $3,500 each, he said. He added that board advertising will go for $20,000 a spot.

"There will be advertising on helmets, advertising on jerseys, advertising on cheerleaders.''

The location of the latter would be on their butts. "One restaurant already has expressed an interest in a 'Follow me to ...' ad,'' on a cheerleader's bottom, he said.

The press release makes grand promises.

"By the end of the summer, the NAIFL will have established its business operations in every city in the league.''

And Tom Wilkinson is going to put it all together? The same Tom Wilkinson who couldn't successfully run the U of A Golden Bears is going to put together a 14-team league to start play in January?

Does this mean Wilkie is going to give up his Carpet World job?

"When I was first contacted, I was kinda interested,'' said Wilkinson. "The more I thought about it, the more I liked it. It will give more Canadian football players a chance to play pro football.''

Wilkinson said he talked to CFL commissioner Tom Wright and several CFL general managers.

"I received a positive response,'' he said. "It will in no way challenge the CFL. It's in their off-season.''

For more background, he said, "Ask Bill, he'll do a better job at answering them. But I'm really glad to be part of this.''

So why not call it the Canadian Indoor Football League?

"There is no Arena Football League team in Madison Square Garden,'' said Warwick. "That's my only warning.''

Warwick, the son of Billy Warwick of Canadian hockey fame, said he's already been approached by a U.S. indoor football league about a "buyout.'' Take it and run. Run faster than Wilkie ever ran.


Looks like Terry Jones isn't convinced that this league will fly. Who knows? I certainly hope it does though.

[Bill]

Well...

I guess Terry Jones didn't get front row seats at the press conference and was perturbed.. lol

With that much negativity... He must have another axe to grind or is just trying to stir up something... Who knows..

I can see having a "wait and see" attitude or "It hasn't worked before"..

But that was flat out above and beyond...

Makes you want the NAIFL to really do well...
And a hope of this future conversation..

"Uh.. NO.. No we don't have any press credentials for you Mr. Jones...
Nor will we ever".. lol

Heres to Terry eating a lot of crow someday..

[Shootmaster_44]

I hope that's the case too. But you can call me the NAIFL's #1 fan and I still doubt we'll see a kickoff. Sadly, I live here in Saskatoon. In my lifetime, I have seen 3 failed attempts at getting an NHL franchise here, 5 rumoured pro hockey leagues that never got off the ground, 2 IHL teams that never materialized, 3 failed pro baseball leagues, a fourth that never got off the ground, a roller hockey team that never happened, 3 failed pro basketball teams in four different leagues and an indoor soccer team that never got off the ground. Do I hope that there is arena football at Sask Place (I will never get used to calling it the Credit Union Centre)? Yes. Do I think it will happen? Highly unlikely.

This will seem very strange but the reason has really nothing to do with Billy Warwick Jr., the NAIFL, his mysterious vagueness about his backing or the like. It really stems from the Saskatoon Blades. The damn WHL team's lease seems to have a stranglehold on winter/early spring activity at the building. Why does the University of Saskatchewan Huskies' hockey teams play at a rink built in 1912 that holds under 1000 people? The Blades lease won't allow them to move into Sask Place. I really doubt the Blades would allow another tennant into Sask Place. The lack of residual revenue from concessions and souveneers (sp?) is what killed the Saskatchewan Hawks (and lack of attendance).

If Sask Place gets a good a revenue sharing agreement between the Swarm and the Blades, the NAIFL will survive and hopefully thrive. Where else but in the Green Bay of Canada, can a place of under a 1,000,000 support 1 pro football team, 2 University teams and 2 Junior teams. The Riders average around 28,000-35,000 per game, the U of Regina Rams average around 2,500-5,000 per game, the U of Saskatchewan Huskies (here in Saskatoon) draw nearly 5,000 per game (which is standing room at Griffith Stadium), the Saskatoon Hilltops draw around 3,000 per game and the Regina Prairie Thunder draw around 2,500-3,000 per game. This does mean that football fans are in this province and it will be supported.

The places that will have the most trouble selling arena football will be Vancouver, Winnipeg, Toronto and Montreal. In Vancouver, they've already lost the NBA's Grizzlies and took a demotion from AAA PCL to Short-Season A Northwest League for the Canadians, both due to poor attendance. Also rumor has it that, in lacrosse-mad B.C., the Vancouver Ravens are struggling with attendance. The B.C. Lions even have to tarp part of B.C. Place off and pretend that the stadium holds less people to have a "sell-out."

In Winnipeg, they lost the NHL's Jets due to lack of a new arena. But suddenly they can now afford a new arena for the AHL's Moose? Something's wrong with this picture, the Moose do not sell-out every game. They might if they were a better team. Winnipeg fans are fickle and only seem to support a winner. The Winnipeg Goldeyes, used to draw very well playing in Winnipeg Stadium. They too started to drop in playing ability since they moved into their new baseball-only stadium (the name escapes me) and fans seemed to have stayed away.

In Toronto, we have seen arena football die already once, why does Billy Warwick Jr. want to flog a dead horse? I understand the importance of the GTA, but playing at the ACC is a terrible idea as they will suffer the same fate as the Phantoms did. The NAIFL season runs right in the middle of the busiest time at the ACC. There are already 3 leagues, the NHL, NBA and NLL already fighting for dates at the arena. Why take a run at scheduling in the midst of that? If downtown Toronto is a must, the RICOH Coliseum on the CNE Grounds is available as the Roadrunners did not have their lease renewed for next season. So the Terror would be the sole tennant of the building. Personally, I would place the team in Missassaugua or Brampton that way its still in the GTA but not alienating fans from the suburbs by being right downtown.

Montreal is probably the oddest choice for a team. I understand Billy Warwick Jr.'s idea, he sees the popularity of both Universite de Laval Rouge et Or and the Montreal Alouettes and figures that there are lots of football fans in the Greater Montreal area. He's probably right on that account. But there are lots of hockey fans too and that didn't stop many hockey teams from dying in the Montreal area. As well there are two major examples of Montrealers apathy towards sports, the Montreal Expos and the Montreal Machine. The Expos some nights it would seem draw more players and broadcasters than fans to their games. The Machine on the other hand drew a few more fans but not enough to make a worthwhile dent in a budget. The Machete would have to be a winner to continue drawing any fans they have attend their first game regardless. Montreal fans seem to flee losing teams like rats from a sinking ship. There are a few die-hards but they are few and far between.

The biggest pocket aside from Saskatchewan where the NAIFL will do well is the Maritimes where they will draw very well. The 4 Atlantic Universities draw very well during the season. The St. Mary's Huskies, playing in Halifax routinely draw 20,000 to Canadian University football. So the Halifax club will do quite well in my opinion. But I guess we'll have to wait and see on the NAIFL.

[Bill]

You know...
I have caught some flak over on the NIFL board for pointing out the lack of real leadership in the league... My only real issue with the NIFL is their willingness to hand out franchises like candy.. And then teams last a partial season.. And sometimes don't even play a single home game after selling season tickets.. 2004 has been the fubar season for the NIFL..

And an experience like the fans in Ft. Collins or Waco or Wichita Falls or AF2 Cincinnati etc etc etc. have had..
Leaves them feeling like you do with your doubts..
And you see yourself as NAIFL fan #1.. And still the doubts..
That is what getting burned time after time does...

But when you have people like the Terry Jones's of the world out there...
With all their negative attitudes and or being a pompous A**...

To borrow a line from Donald Sutherland as "Oddball" in the movie from many years ago "Kelly's Heroes"...

Stop with the negative waves! Mr. Jones..

If that is the kind of reception Mr. Warwick is going to get from the majority of the media... He is going to have to have the fortitude and drive to make this thing work... Mr. Jones may have already planted enough negative seeds in Edmonton that it won't work there..

Maybe this is all too simplistic and I am way off base..
And no.. I don't think a positive attitude can make everything work..

But geez... It's going to be tough enough to make this thing work without the stranglehold on arenas you talked about in Saskatoon and the Terry Jone's of the world...

[Shootmaster_44]

I found this on the NAIFL's website:

Game Highlights
15 Second Play Clock
3 Down Football
60 Minutes - 3 - 20 Minute Stop-time Periods
40-meter field
Goal posts suspended over the goal line
10 meter end zones
Slam dunk touchdown: 7 points + convert
8 players per side
Penalty kicks
3 officials
Glass and boards are in bounds
First down lineage

My first question about this is, what is this? This sounds like some weird roller-hockeyized version of football. I mean an 8 or 9 point TD?!? 3 Period Football?!? Penalty Kicks?!? What are penalty kicks even for? Has anyone ever heard of a league using these rules before? Suddenly, I'm not too sure about the NAIFL. This seems a little too out there for the traditional football fan. I understand this is the "Canadian Indoor Football rules" our version of the American game. But I think some of these rules are too far fetched. I don't like soccer rules bastardizing my football. I would scrap the penalty kick rule right away. What was Billy Warwick Jr. thinking when he came up with this one? With the glass and boards being in bounds can you say a serious injury waiting to happen? Its only a matter of time before some guy gets his neck or back broken being taken hard into the boards. I've seen similar incidents in hockey, it will happen in football except this time its legal. Do you honestly think your ability to walk is worth $1,000 per week? I don't. Scrap a few of these rules and I think we'd be fine.

I'd go with a Canadianized version of the AFL's rules. Essentially, move the goal posts to the front of the end zone, play three downs, subtract a player (since adding a player would make it too congested on the field) and since a Rouge is impossible the Slam Dunk TD idea isn't so far fetched. Otherwise you leave everything else alone and play normal arena football. If you don't this league will look like some XFL/Slamball thing and fans will stay away in droves. What does everyone else think?
[/quote]

[Magnum357]

I'm not sure I like these rules. I can understand going with 3 downs (I don't think the CFL would permit a 4 down league in their territory) but a lot of those other rules just seem too weird. I agree, I think it would be best too use Arena style rules because 3 downs would work better for that game then NIFL if they want 3 downs. I'm not sure if going 7 on 7 football would work. Some one on here once said that Arena Football experimented with the idea of it but opted for 8 on 8. The problem was the receiver ratio versus defender. On the other hand, 14 guys might open things up a little.

I don't know, after reading these rules, I'm not sure if this league would work well. The guys doing this seem too want too make another Slam Ball game, or something.

[Shootmaster_44]

I hadn't been to the NAIFL's website in a while but I noticed something. On July 1st they announced former Edmonton Eskimo Angelo Santucci the new Vice President in charge of Personnel. I'm guessing he's a friend of Tom Wilkinson. I'm wondering if all front office staff of the league will be former Edmonton Eskimos though. It will be a tough sell in Calgary if say Hugh Campbell is the head coach.


July 1, 2004 Edmonton, Alberta
NAIFL contracts Angelo Santucci as VP Personnel
Angelo Santucci
1971 AUAA Rookie-of-the-Year
1972 Vanier Cup Champion
CFL Grey Cup Champion
1978-CFL MOST KICKOFF RETURN YARDAGE
1978-CFL MOST VALUABLE CANADIAN
Inducted into the St. Mary's University Hall Of Fame

Angelo Santucci is the new VP Personnel of the North American Indoor Football League. Among his duties and responsibilities, he has taken charge of recruiting top football operations talent to fill the positions of General Manager and Coaching staff for all 14 teams in the NAIFL. Working directly with League President Tom Wilkinson, Santucci has developed a comprehensive system for the NAIFL, to scout and draft TOP CANADIAN TALENT from the CIS and the Canadian Junior Football League.

Santucci has forged an alliance with the Pro Football Institute, based in California USA to attract American Free Agent, NCAA, and ex-NFL talent to the League. Angelo is currently scheduling the Free Agent Combine Camps which will take place in every city in the league in August and September.

The NAIFL is confident that the same skills and talents that made Santucci an impact player as a running back, superb blocker and timely contributor to special teams, make him the ideal choice to be the first VP Personnel of the NAIFL.

The same Santucci that was an AUAA leading rusher, CFL all-star and MVP, especially appreciated for his dedication to team, character, and durability, will set a new standard for human resource development and Personnel recruitment and management in North American Pro Football.

Coming very soon...
Absolute block buster North American sports news regarding General Manager and Coach's hiring's by the NAIFL...
and...
Impressive football events in terms of coast to coast Free Agent evaluation/combines.

North American Indoor Football League Inc.
780-921-2822
http://www.naifl.ca info@naifl.ca

Tom Wilkinson, League President - NAIFL
direct: 780-901-3822 email:wilky@naifl.ca

Angelo Santucci, VP Personnel - NAIFL
direct: 780-902-2822 email:santucci@naifl.ca

Here's a thought since Dave Hardy former Saskatoon Hilltops coach is available the NAIFL should approach him about the vacancy with the Swarm. I played for him in High School, while we didn't see eye-to-eye on things, I do have to say if he can get his players to buy his philosophy they will be successful. I think his multiple Canadian Bowl and Prairie Football Conference titles speak for themselves. Also since he is a retired High School teacher and school administrator, its not as if he will be giving up a career to join the league. So the possibility of it going under may not be as big of a concern to him as it would be to a coach like Brian Towriss.

For Regina, I would say take on Frank McCrystal current Regina Rams head coach. He hasn't won a Vanier Cup, yet. But the talk coming from him already sounds like he thinks he should be coaching in the CFL. If the NAIFL offer him the right amount of money he might come on board.

Who else should the NAIFL target for their GM/Coach jobs?

[mrcool92501]

if u worry about the nifl handing franchises out

go check out the aba

www.abalive.com

talk about hand outs

[Geoff]

How many are they at now? Somewhere around a million, right?

[mrcool92501]

current# of aba franchises for 2004-05 season:35 and prob counting

[Shootmaster_44]

I actually received a job offer from the league the other day. But I really doubt its worth taking but I was wondering I'm sure some of you must have worked in start-up leagues before. Should I bother giving up the job I have now to work on a commission based sales job for them or should I keep the hourly wage job I have now? Given that most leagues seem to die that roll through Saskatoon, one has to wonder if I would ever see a paycheque from them. Especially being that the job isn't salaried, I would most likely be the last person to be paid out by creditors if the league did go under.

[Plainsman]

A few more things about this league...

Yes, I've also heard from a friend that all they do is pay by commission, even in Edmonton.

Their marketing plan didn't even involve account executives. They use lists of businesses derived from the yellow pages. Full-page ads, half-page ads, etc...they're hitting up local Edmonton businesses to be "national" sponsors. I hear some major warning bells right now.

The tinkering with the rules. Can anyone recall the XFL opening dash for the football instead of a coin toss? Don't make major rules changes, otherwise you alienate the fans.

26 games, plus exhibition? That's nearly twice as many as the AFL and af2 play. A 20-man roster? 8 offense, 8 defense, a quarterback and practice guys? Don't they believe in backups? Can 20 guys play a double-season and stay injury-free?

This league's creative aspect seems to be basically a 2-man operation, according to the flyer my friend's business received. Further questioning at the media conference has shown that it's been a 2-man creation from the start...no input from anyone else. So small-shop that they apparently designed logos themselves...and I don't think these guys came out of graphic design firms. At least, that's what my friend learned when these guys were asked about what logos might look like. Apparently one of the helmet designs stands a chance of being fairly offensive...I guess no publicity can be bad, in their view...

My friend knew somebody who was at the press conference. They seem to be putting way too much faith in participation in internet broadcasts. My friend's friend asked about a few game rules...2 intermissions is meant to provide more concession revenue. Didn't they say in the Edmonton Sun interview that it wasn't about the money?

After reading the letters that the Saskatoon guy got when he wrote to supposed sponsors, it seems that this is a scheme that is *so* not well thought-out. I don't know how much football and market research were done beforehand.

Maybe Terry Jones isn't that much of a pessimist, after all.

Arena football in Canada is a good idea, but not like this. Maybe AF2-Canada wouldn't be such a bad idea.

[derwilderbill]

My friend's friend heard from a friend that your friend has a friend that got some of the facts mixed up. Should check your friend's friends' knowledge of his friends fact before you quote them.

[Shootmaster_44]

My friend's friend heard from a friend that your friend has a friend that got some of the facts mixed up. Should check your friend's friends' knowledge of his friends fact before you quote them.

If this is true, what is the correct facts?

I think the league is very desperate as I mentioned the job to my 15 year old brother and they were interested in hiring him on. I think the NAIFL's bastardization of football rules, coupled with no real money will kill quite quickly. I find it funny that they figure some of their players will have NFL experience. I'm betting that this league, if it happens, will feature former CIS and CJFL players. It wouldn't surprise me if some players with only high school experience made some of the teams. Does anyone have any solid info on lease information for any of the clubs?

[Bill]

Well Shootmaster...

I have viewed your posts throughout this thread..

You have had the common sense wait and see approach and even maybe a little cautiously optimistic.. Not passing judgement too quickly..

Now it doesn't look good.. Well bummer...
I was hoping to see the league really make a go of it..

Thanks again for the info..
And also again.. I appreciate it..

[Shootmaster_44]

Yeah it would appear that this league is not going to make. Too bad too, as I was looking forward to arena football here in Saskatoon. Maybe somebody will take this experience and get an AF2 team here. But I wouldn't hold my breath, I think pro sports are dead in Saskatoon. Unless its the NHL or possibly the AHL, I doubt anyone would care if there was a new team here.

I'm an ardent supporter of any pro team that passes through Saskatoon. If there was a pro cricket team here, I'd probably go and check out a match or two. Sadly, the NAIFL is not going to make my list of teams that I saw play here, I think. I wonder what the next "big-time" pro league will be that trys to roll through here. Actually, I think the NLL has their sights set on Saskatoon. They were planning an exhibition game for last winter that got cancelled due to the labour strife. With minor box lax taking off, I think the NLL would be wise to come here. But I guess that's a different discussion for a different board.

[Shootmaster_44]

There was actually news out of the NAIFL today:

Apparently I can't simply post the email. Suffice to say that Ottawa named their GM/Head Coach today. Its George Brancato, who might be remembered by some on here as the head coach in the AFL with Providence, Chicago, Dallas, Charlotte, Las Vegas, Anaheim, Florida, and New York.

[Bill]

Well... Okay..

They are still swimming then..
Against the tide..

But.. They haven't gone under yet..

Good..
If they plugging away and appear to be for real and viable..
Maybe the right people will notice and they can make a go of it..

Good Luck to them..

I am a Saskatchewan Roughriders fan.. You know.. Kansas/Saskatchewan... wheat... And for some reason years ago I started rooting for them.. I like the BC Lions also.. But I was drawn to Saskatchewan.. So.. I guess I will have to root for Saskatoon or Regina..

[Shootmaster_44]

Go Riders Go......I didn't realize Kansas was similar to Saskatchewan though. However it just occured to me that Wichita State used to be called the WheatShockers. I always thought of Nebraska being more similar though.

[Bill]

The only tie in that I have ever seen that was Kansas/Saskatchewan...

Was my recollection that Saskatchewan was the bread basket of Canada..
As is Kansas in the United States...

I don't know.. Maybe it was the little guy.. Regina.. and its population against the others?..

All I know is that I started rooting for the Riders..
I have never been a band wagon jumper..
So.. When I started noticing the CFL many years ago.... There was no way I could root for the juggernaut known as the Eskimos..

[Shootmaster_44]

The only tie in that I have ever seen that was Kansas/Saskatchewan...

Was my recollection that Saskatchewan was the bread basket of Canada..
As is Kansas in the United States...

I don't know.. Maybe it was the little guy.. Regina.. and its population against the others?..

All I know is that I started rooting for the Riders..
I have never been a band wagon jumper..
So.. When I started noticing the CFL many years ago.... There was no way I could root for the juggernaut known as the Eskimos..

Yeah no kidding.....except one thing Saskatoon is bigger than Regina. We have around 210,000 people whereas Regina has 190,000. The other tie-in I can see is both place's colleges dominate in Football.

[Plainsman]

Barely any news lately on this league so far...

Is it premature to start a death watch?

[Shootmaster_44]

It could be, however the season isn't supposed to start until February 2005, so they have a bit of time yet. But I've only heard of one team with a coach, that's Ottawa and nobody has an arena deal yet. The arena deals might be hingent on the NHL lockout though. That won't be decided for sure until September 15, so there might be a flurry of activity if that happens. Needless to say, I stopped thinking this league might fly, about the time they offered my 15 year old brother a job in sales.

[derwilderbill]

My freinds' freind says your brother applied through the leagues employment opportunity form on their website.

[derwilderbill]

Then he reminded me how to spell FRIEND...oops.

[Shootmaster_44]

Yeah he did do that and 2 minutes later the phone rings from the Edmonton Head Office offering him a job.

I received an email from them today:

Media Update
September 3, 2004

North American Indoor Football League Inc. contact info
www.naifl.ca
info@naifl.ca
Tom Wilkinson, League President 780 -901-3822 wilky@naifl.ca
Angelo Santucci, VP Personnel 780-902-2822
santucci@naifl.ca
William Warwick, Launch Team 780-901-2822
william@naifl.ca

President Wilkinson has set a "drop dead" date of November
1, 2004 for the 2005 season. The League must have the
following in place by that date:
GM/Coaches, facility leases, artificial turf and equipment,
top talent roster potential

This is a good sign that the league has a date set to give up on it. I really doubt that it will make it though. I guess time will tell on this one.

Free Agent Combines are scheduled in Halifax, Ottawa, Quebec
City, Regina, Edmonton, and Vancouver to be conducted in
conjunction with the Pro Football Institute.

Free Agent Combines are being organized in Victoria,
Calgary, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Toronto, Montreal, Fredericton
and St John's in conjunction with Coach John Gregory and the
Listini Group.

John Gregory? I had no idea he was involved in the league. If they managed to get him onside, it would give the league credibility. However, why would he sign on in this league? The man has coached a Grey Cup Championship team, plus had several years in Iowa in the AFL, this league isn't worth his time.

A Major Pro Indoor Football Event!

The North American Indoor Football League (NAIFL) is
scheduling free agent assessment camps (Combines) in your
city. These events are structured to tap the free agent
football player talent pool in your city. We advertise, book
the best local facilities, show up with a complete
professional organization, register the applicants...then we
run them, hit them, test them, push them to their limits.

Those good enough, strong enough, and fit enough will be
draft protected as local player properties by the NAIFL team
in your city and invited to the pro camp in January 2005.

These will be major sporting cultural events in your city.
The Free Agent Camps will be open to the public and to the
media. It's not every day local athletes have a chance to go
pro!

The one question I have is how much are the camps going to cost? Is Billy Warwick looking to make a quick buck like John Larsen did with the Federal Hockey League? I also wonder how many of these players would actually make the teams. If the NAIFL is setting their sights on former NFL and CFL players, would a person in St. John's who maybe played CIS football make it?


GM/Head Coach negotiation list: (status)

Victoria: Al Wittur status: negotiating

Why is he listed with Victoria? The only information I can find about him is that he was the Edmonton Huskies' Running Backs coach in 1996. My guess is he is a friend of Billy Warwick's.

Vancouver: Rawle Ian James status: negotiating

My guess is this isn't the same guy, but the only Rawle Ian James I can find mentioned on the net, is a guy out of Toronto who runs a men's self-discovery group. If this is the right guy, what are the powers that be in the NAIFL smoking? This guy appears to know nothing about football!

Calgary: John Helton status: negotiating

Finally a person who has some history in football. He played Defensive Tackle and Defensive End during his pro career. He was the 1972 CFL Outstanding Lineman for the Calgary Stampeders. He also was the 1974 CFL Outstanding Defensive Player. Finally, he was also the 1978 CFL Sportsman of the Year (Tom Pate Award). He played from 1979-1982 with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. He was drafted by the Portland Storm of the old WFL in 1974. He was also drafted by the Detroit Lions in 1968, after four years at Arizona State.

Edmonton: Ed Jones status: negotiating

All I can tell is that he played for the Eskimos in the early 1980's. He is tied for the CFL record for Interceptions Returned for TD's in a game with 2 and second for Interceptions Returned for TD's in a season with 3.

Saskatoon: Brian Toweris status: negotiating

If I were BT I wouldn't even think to sign. Their official press release misspelt his last name, Toweris as opposed to correctly Towris. He is arguably one of the best Canadian University coaches in the last 15 years. He's led the University of Saskatchewan Huskies to 6 Vanier Cup games ('89,'90,'94,'96,'98,'02), capturing 3 titles ('90,'96,'98). As well he's led the Huskies to 8 Canada West Conference championships ('89,'90,'91,'94,'96,'98,99,'02). He was named the CIS Coach of the Year in 1994. If CFL teams looked at Canadian University ranks for Head Coaches, BT would be the top of the list.

Regina: Frank McCrystal status: negotiating

Frank McCrystal is a good coach at the University level, after being a stellar coach at the Junior level. He has made the CJFL's Regina Rams into a top contender as the CIS' University of Regina Rams. He's taken the Rams to 1 Vanier Cup ('00). Prior to the Rams' move to the CIS, he took the Rams to 7 CJFL National Titles. He was also named CJFL Coach of the Year twice.

Winnipeg: Joe Poplowski status: negotiating

All I can find is he is a former Winnipeg Blue Bomber.

Toronto: Gino Arcaro status: negotiating

He is the head football coach for Niagara College. They appear to play in Division 3 NJCAA.

Ottawa: George Brancato status: signed

See the previous post about him.

Montreal: Steve Lalonde status: negotiating

He played 5 years at Bishop's, as well as the Albany Firebirds of the AFL. He also did stints with the Ottawa Rough Riders and Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the CFL. Lastly, he went to training camp with Miami Dolphins. He was the Offensive Coordinator/Running Backs Coach with the Erie Invaders of the IPFL. He currently is the Running Backs Coach with Mount Allison University.

Quebec City: Glen Constantine status: negotiating

He is currently the head coach of the Univesite de Laval Rouge et Or.

Halifax: Blake Nill status: negotiating

He has been the St. Mary's University Huskies coach since 1998. In that time he has taken them to three Vanier Cups ('01,'02,'03), winning twice ('01,'02). As well, he's won 4 Atlantic Conference titles ('99-'03). He was named Atlantic Coach of the Year 3 times ('99-'01) and CIS Coach of the Year in 1999.

Fredericton: Jim Borne status: negotiating

I can't find anything about him in regards to football. There are a few Jim Bornes kicking around in the US, but nothing in Canada.

St John's: Wayne Dipper status: negotiating

I can't find anything about him either.


The proposed facilities have been contacted and the NAIFL
has requested the best terms of lease and best available
dates for 2 pre season games, 13 home games and 4 playoff
games between the dates of January 15, 2005 and June 15 2005

VICTORIA
Saveonfoods Centre

There is a small problem with using this arena. Apparently it won't be finished in time. The ECHL's Victoria Salmon Kings are apparently using an arena nearby Victoria, that seats less than 1,000. I wonder if it will be ready by February?

VANCOUVER
GM Place

EDMONTON
Rexall Place

CALGARY
Pengrowth Saddledome

SASKATOON
Credit Union Place

REGINA
Agridome

WINNIPEG
MTS Centre

TORONTO
Air Canada Centre

OTTAWA
Corel Centre

MONTREAL
Bell Centre

QUEBEC
Pepsi Colisee

HALIFAX
Metro Centre

FREDERICTON
Aitken University Centre

ST. JOHN'S
Mile One Stadium

Since the NHL season may be canned, several of these arenas are looking for tenants. Many do have other secondary tenants to use the facilities. But by February, many of these teams will be winding down their seasons. Plus, by the spring, only 4 arenas may still be in use. The ACC could have Raptors' playoffs, Rexall Place could have Roadrunners' playoffs, the MTS Centre could have Moose playoffs and Mile One Stadium could have the Baby Leafs' playoffs. The other arenas will sit empty after March most likely, unless something drastic happens to the WHL teams in Saskatoon and Regina.

The best thing to come from this email I received, is that there are actually some sort of life behind the NAIFL again. But I really think they missed the boat on any sort of media coverage. They had a small groundswell of coverage in April/May and then aside from a couple articles in the Edmonton papers, nothing. It doesn't bode well for the league I'm thinking.[/quote]

[Bill]

Hey hey hey...

They're still trying to get this thing off the ground..

Good..

And as always..
Thanks for the info..

[Shootmaster_44]

I received a new email from the NAIFL today. Here's it contents:

The NAIFL ... On the Threshold!!!

Game dates have been reserved in every ARENA ...

GM Place, Pengrowth Saddledome, Rexall Place, Credit Union Place, Regina Agridome, MTS Centre,

Air Canada Centre, Bell Centre, Pepsi Colisee, Metro Centre, Mile One Stadium

WANTED: The Ready, The Willing, The Able . FOUNDATION SPONSORS!

See the VISION: 4 lifetime GOLD season tickets, lifetime advertising, PRO Indoor Football!

GO Directly to the SPONSORSHIP Page http://www.naifl.ca/HTM/corpsonsors.htm

ARENAS + TURF + EQUIPMENT + PERSONNEL + MARKETING = KICK OFF!

Coast to Coast

North American Indoor Football League Inc. (NAIFL)

info@naifl.ca (780) - 718-1874





Media Release: October 22, 2004



North American Indoor Football League has dates on hold for inaugural season.



The North American Indoor Football League (NAIFL) is thrilled to announce that dates have been put on hold at all 12 arenas the league will be playing in for the 2005 season. The regular season is scheduled to kick off on January 30, 2005 with games in Halifax, Montreal and Ottawa. The season will conclude on June 4 with games being played in six arenas. Preseason and Playoff dates are still being arranged. The facilities that the NAIFL will be playing in include GM Place in Vancouver, Pengrowth Saddledome in Calgary, Rexall Place in Edmonton, Credit Union Centre in Saskatoon, Agridome in Regina, MTS Centre in Winnipeg, Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Corel Centre in Ottawa, Pepsi Colisee in Quebec, Bell Centre in Montreal, Metro Centre in Halifax and Mile One Stadium in St. John’s Newfoundland. Coast to coast football.



Watch out for the NAIFL brand of Indoor Football…No Out-Of-Bounds…Glass and Boards are Live…Penalty Kicks…Slam Dunk Touchdowns…



Ladies and Gentlemen… It’s Time to Rethink Your Rink.



For further information please contact:

William Warwick

780-718-1874

william@naifl.ca

Interesting that they finally have arena dates booked. However, why book arena dates if there are no secured sponsors? I mean seems funny to put yourself on the hook for dates if nothing comes of it. The other funny thing is that Billy Warwick Jr. has become William Warwick. I guess Billy is too informal for a pro sports president. This is interesting if it happens though. From their original list it appears Ottawa, Victoria and Fredericton are out (even if the official website says Ottawa is still in). Which seems that maybe this is the truth. I sent emails to all the arenas except the ACC and Pepsi Colisee (their websites had no contact emails) and I will see how many are shocked by "William" Warwick's announcement. This cutting it really close to their November 1 "drop-dead date." Somehow, I don't take this as the league being on solid footing though. November 1 will come and pass and the league won't be settled by then.

[Shootmaster_44]

I've received two replies, the Credit Union Centre says:

They have dates on hold. They have no agreement with us. Anyone can take a hold on a date. If it is challenged by another potential user
they would loose the date if they don't put up a deposit and contract.

The Bell Centre says

Although we have been contacted by the NAIFL they are not currently holding any dates at the Bell Centre.

So it looks like William Warwick has been talking out of school. Somehow it doesn't surprise me that they are making the claim anyways though.

[Bill]

Well.... They're gonna have to get a lot "things" done before the end of January...

But.. As usual.. Here's to hoping they can pull this off...

and also as usual... Thanks for the updates Shootmaster :)

[Shootmaster_44]

Its official, the NAIFL has dropped their plans of opening their season this year. I can't believe that they are trying to play in 2006 though. I wonder what constitutes 75%? They had no arena leases, 1 coach, no major sponsors and no players. How does this make only 25%?

January 25, 2005



Media Release



2005 season drops dead, long live the 2006 season!



The North American Indoor Football League is opting to play its first season in 2006 instead of 2005. The league had completed over 75% of its pre season objectives for November 1, 2004 to ensure a successful season in 2005. Just about good to go but not quite. So, upon careful consideration the NAIFL has decided that in its best long term business interests it will launch its first season on February 1, 2006.



The NAIFL will continue to vigorously promote its sport entertainment product to Corporate Sponsors and Indoor Football fans, maintaining its lifetime commitment to its FOUNDATION Sponsors.



This extra year of preparation will allow the NAIFL to mobilize complete and fully prepared football organizations in each of the 14 Canadian cities it has targeted to be operational in for its first year, as well as launching each team with the fanfare that these professional football organizations deserve. Importantly, this extra time enables the NAIFL to complete its Canadian and American football talent scouting and assessment objectives in conjunction with the Pro Football Institute of California USA, insuring that the best Canadian and American football players will have positions on NAIFL team rosters.



All the NAIFL news and updates will continue to be available at www.naifl.ca. Coming soon online you will find the NAIFL Football Fan Club built by RAMP Interactive of Edmonton with live Cheer and Player video chat and a complete online store of NAIFL apparel by Classic Embroidery of Winfield Alberta.



South of the 49th there are many interesting changes and realignments afoot in both indoor and arena football and many offers have been presented to and encouraged by the NAIFL with regard to buy outs, mergers, expansion and interlocking Championships.



First and foremost the NAIFL is committed to its 3 down, live boards and glass, penalty kick, slam dunk touch down indoor football game. As well the NAIFL is committed to the 14 Canadian cities it has targeted to be in the league, but the NAIFL is called the North American Indoor Football League for a reason. All viable North American cities are welcome, and sought to be in the NAIFL.



The NAIFL is confidently moving ahead to reach its objective of fielding the most exciting indoor football product there is across North America in every viable city with the best football players available on the planet.



William Warwick Jr.

Launch Team Member

North American Indoor Football League Inc.

william@naifl.ca

www.naifl.ca

[Pounder]

I think they're anticipating picking off some NIFL teams. Every league should anticipate picking off some NIFL teams. You can tell from the wink/nudge in that release that they'll be looking south of the 49th. I guess we'll see how the UIF turns, as well.

The possibilities are out there... which depends on how you interpret "out there."