Arctic Predators Likely to be IFL's 3rd Alaskan Franchise
June 19, 2009 - Indoor Football League (IFL) News Release
Richmond, VA: The Indoor Football League announced today that they have signed a letter of intent to add a third team in the state of Alaska, to begin play in 2010. The team would be located in Alaska's Mat-Su Valley, with games being played in the town of Wasilla. Heading the collaborative efforts are Hans and Michelle Deemer, Jeff and Crystal Martinez, and Brian Bagoy. No stranger to the IFL, Hans Deemer previously coached and helped manage the Alaska Wild team located just South in Anchorage. "We are very excited for the Valley to be joining the professional indoor football world, and specifically the opportunity for it to be in the Indoor Football League," stated Deemer.
The team has already conducted a "Name the Team" contest and established a dance team in its preparations for 2010. The Arctic Predators, a name selected by fan Jim Dukes of Wasilla, have even selected their first staff member. Randy Magner, former Colony High School Head Coach, will be involved with the coaching staff in some capacity that has yet to be determined. "Randy is a well respected, and influential member of the community here, and we are delighted to have him be apart of this endeavor," stated Deemer.
The Mat-Su Valley, with its population of over 86,000 people, is located approximately 40 miles north of Anchorage and about 300 miles south of Fairbanks which houses the IFL's Grizzlies franchise. The team will play its games in the Curtis C. Manard II Arena which can seat over 2,500 fans for indoor football. "I have had the opportunity to visit the community, see the arena, and meet with the individuals involved in this process," stated IFL Commissioner Tommy Benizio, "I am very confident that the Arctic Predators can enjoy a high level of success in the IFL and be a valuable member of this league."
The team's membership in the league will be up for vote by the leagues Directors upon completion and submission of their application.
Additional expansion announcements are expected over the coming weeks and months. The Indoor Football League was created in 2008 out of the merger between the Intense Football League and the United Indoor Football Association. It consists of 19 teams spanning from Fairbanks, Alaska to Washington DC with the season being played from March through August. Log onto www.GoIFL.com for more information, or call the IFL offices at 804-643-PASS (7277).
Indoor Football League Stories from June 19, 2009
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- Arctic Predators Likely to be IFL's 3rd Alaskan Franchise - IFL
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