Firebirds Launch Literacy Program

Published on February 6, 2003 under Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Albany/Indiana Firebirds News Release


INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Firebirds of the Arena Football League have teamed-up with area elementary schools for their Literacy Program, which advocates reading as a fun and exciting part of everyday life. The "Spike Reads" Program promotes reading as a foundation for learning and encourages young people to strive for excellence through goal achievement. Currently, 5,000 local students have joined the Firebirds in this exciting educational experience.

The City of Indianapolis Mayor Bart Peterson is proud to endorse the Firebirds' "Spike Reads" Literacy Program, "By encouraging cooperation from children, parents, and their educators, our city's young people will benefit from an exceptional hands-on experience that will help our youth to envision a future with limitless possibilities."

The Spike Reads Program consists of achievement goals for all grade levels. Once a student has conquered the required goals, they will be rewarded with Firebirds prizes. There are four reward levels with the final one being an Indiana Firebirds Home Game ticket voucher.

Spike, the Firebirds mascot, will be traveling to the participating schools to entertain and reward the children with a personalized show. Spike's skit is designed to motivate the children and show them how "Reading is Fun".

"The Firebirds are proud and excited to kick off our 2003 'Spike Reads' (Literacy Program)," said Firebirds general manager Joe Hennessy. "We're looking forward to working with the teachers and students of Indianapolis to help in any way we can to promote education. We think the program we have put together will provide the impetus to do so."

With the resounding response for the Spike Reads Program this year, the organization anticipates it to expand in 2004. Local area schools are invited to join the Firebirds team and the Spike Reads Program throughout the up-coming seasons.

The 2003 season marks the historic debut of the AFL on NBC. The network will broadcast 70 games next season, including all playoff games and ArenaBowl XVII on June 22. The Firebirds' home opener is slated for Sunday, February, 16th versus the Chicago Rush live on NBC Sports. Firebirds' season tickets for the 2003 season are on sale now and can be purchased by calling a Firebirds' ticket representative at 317.472.8080. Firebirds merchandise is available at the Home Court Gift Shop, Home Court II in Circle Center Mall and Home Court at Indianapolis International Airport. For merchandise information, please call 317.917.2755.



Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from February 6, 2003


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