AIFA Welcomes New Baltimore Mariners Ownership
Published on August 1, 2009 under American Indoor Football Association (AIFA) News Release
BALTIMORE, Maryland - A new ownership group will guide the Baltimore Mariners in the 2010 season. The franchise made the announcement through its web site on Thursday, July 30th.
The team has been purchased by the Brig Group, LLC, a local business led by Dwayne Wells and Kevin Fash. The two businessmen also own Ryco Associates, Inc., a construction firm, and The Nest, a local restaurant and bar in Baltimore that is a favorite of sports fans.
In their second year, the Mariners made a major move forward in the American Indoor Football Association. The team posted a 9-5 record in 2009, fifth best in the league. Baltimore also made its first playoff appearance, losing to the eventual AIFA-champion Reading Express. The Mariners defeated the Express twice during the regular season, the only team in the league to achieve that feat.
The Mariners were founded by AIFA co-founder John Morris as an expansion franchise two years ago. The team is an excellent example of the league's franchise-seeding strategy, which has resulted in several stable and successful AIFA teams.
"I am so pleased with the growth of this franchise, and I know that Dwayne and Kevin will keep that momentum going," said Morris. "The 1st Mariner Arena is a great venue for indoor football, and the addition of the D.C. Armor and the Harrisburg Stampede have become outstanding rivals. Richmond (Virginia) and Trenton (New Jersey) will add more rivalries for 2010.
"I'd also like to compliment coach Chris Simpson and his staff, general manager Greg Justice and the Mariners players and fans for their outstanding season. It's a great success story for our league, and I look for more growth in the future."
American Indoor Football Association Stories from August 1, 2009
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
