Albany Empire Parent Company Chosen to Operate New Atlantic City AFL Franchise
January 23, 2019 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Albany Empire News Release
ALBANY, NY- The Albany Empire announce that parent company Trifecta Sports & Entertainment will oversee the operation and launch of the League's newest franchise in Atlantic City, New Jersey. In addition, George Manias, Albany Empire C.O.O., has been named President of Trifecta Sports & Entertainment and will now oversee all business and football operations for the Albany, Atlantic City, and Philadelphia AFL franchises.
"I am honored to have been chosen, not only to head the launch of the AFL's newest franchise in Atlantic City, but to also oversee Trifecta Sports & Entertainment's portfolio of teams," said George Manias, Albany Empire C.O.O. and Trifecta Sports & Entertainment President. "The Philadelphia Soul organization has been the model franchise in the AFL over the last decade and was a key factor in the successful launch of the team in Albany last season. As we become operational in Atlantic City, our plan is to duplicate what we do in both Philadelphia and Albany. We developed the playbook on what makes a successful team in the AFL and we couldn't be happier about our role in growing the league."
Similar to what the Empire did prior to its inaugural season a year ago, Atlantic City will host a fan vote to determine the new team name. The Atlantic City team will play their home games right in the heart of it all, at Boardwalk Hall. The search for a head coach is underway and the team will soon announce open player tryouts, dance team tryouts and several other initiatives, as the team moves toward the season.
With Manias being promoted to President of Trifecta Sports & Entertainment, Atlantic City will mark the third Arena League franchise he has launched. Manias came back to the AFL in 2017 as the Vice President of Business Operations for the Albany Empire and propelled the expansion team to a successful season. Under Manias' leadership, the Empire boasted a League-best attendance, averaging nearly 10,000 fans per home game. On the field, the team held the best record and accumulated numerous accolades including MVP, Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year, and a League-high 12 All-Arena players. Day-to-day, Manias oversaw and developed a front office staff of young and determined professionals and has entrenched the franchise into fabric of the community.
Get your 2019 season tickets today to watch the Empire take on their newest rivals! Fans can secure season tickets for the Albany Empire by calling 518-533-2200, by going to TheAlbanyEmpire.com, or by stopping by the Empire office located in the Times Union Center. A limited number of great seats are still available! Want to bring your organization to a game, fundraise, or perform on the field? Group experiences are now on sale. Call 518-533-2200 for additional information.
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