Arena Football Returns to Greater Cincy with Kentucky Barrels Joining Arena Football One

August 18, 2025 - The Kentucky Barrels are set to bring the high-octane action of Arena Football back to Greater Cincinnati with their inaugural season kicking off in 2026. As a proud expansion team in Arena Football One (AF1), the Barrels will make their home at Truist Arena on the campus of Northern Kentucky University. "We are excited to welcome arena football to Truist Arena through this exciting partnership," said Cady Short-Thompson, President of NKU. "This collaboration brings a new level of energy and ... Full Story

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OurSports Central provides coverage of the following alternative and minor league teams in Highland Heights, Kentucky:

• Kentucky Barrels (AF1)

Other cities near Highland Heights, Kentucky with alternative or minor league teams:

• Akron, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Niles, Ohio
• Youngstown, Ohio
• Eastlake, Ohio

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• Cedric Walker to coach AF1-expansion Kentucky Barrels - AF1 Billings Gazette (August 19)
• NKU's Truist Arena to host Kentucky Barrels of Arena Football One - AF1 Cincinnati Enquirer (August 18)
• New Arena Football team to join NKU Norse basketball as tenants inside Truist Arena - AF1 Cincinnati Enquirer (August 18)
• New professional sports team to debut in the Tri-State in 2026 - AF1 FOX 19 Cincinnati (August 18)
• Nw pro team from Arena Football One to reside at NKU's Truist Arena - AF1 Cincinnati Enquirer (August 18)
• New AF1 team, the 'Kentucky Barrels' will bring pro arena football back to Cincinnati area - AF1 WCPO (August 18)
• New arena football team, Kentucky Barrels, to start play at Truist Arena in 2026 - AF1 WLWT (August 18)
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