An Open Letter to the Erie Fans

March 6, 2009 - American Indoor Football Association (AIFA)
Erie Explosion News Release


Erie River Rats Fans:

I would like to address some issues that many of you may be feeling going into the 2009 River Rat campaign. I understand that Erie has been through a number of teams and ownership changes dating back to the Erie Invaders, Erie Freeze, and now the Erie River Rats. However, one theme that remains consistent is that the Erie area has always generated interest in the indoor football game. The River Rat Organization is the fourth post-collegiate team that I have played for in my career. The previous two organizations that I have played for were in Italy. Both of those teams have had successful programs for the past twenty years. Why? Their fan base has been consistently loyal and enthusiastic. Erie has those types of fans. The fans of Erie and the surrounding area are consistently loyal and enthusiastic.

It comes to no surprise that Erie has consistently fielded teams, despite the changes in the teams and ownership. It is an enormous testament to the excitement that the Erie area fans bring to each campaign. Teams and owners need support from fans like you in order to have successful programs. The current owners have stated many times that they do not care if they turn a profit from the organization. They are mainly interested in running an organization that will bring excitement to the Erie area. The coaching staff is building a team that will produce not only a winning team, but a team that is active in the community. We, the players, are preparing extremely hard for this upcoming season. Many of the players on this team work in the Erie area. There is an intense sense of pride that comes to all of us who strap on the pads and go to work for the Erie community.

Having been a part of numerous organizations and teams I have experienced the stages of team building and I can assure you that even with many new faces this team is melding well. The strength of the TEAM as a whole will more than compensate for the talented players that are not with us this season. Lastly, the Erie area fans will be the key asset in the success of this River Rat season. As you have done for years, your enthusiasm can and will win many games for us this season. I, along with all of the River Rats, look forward to playing for you this season.



American Indoor Football Association Stories from March 6, 2009


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