Freeze owner issues statement regarding playoff matchup
June 16, 2006 - American Indoor Football Association (AIFA)
Erie Freeze News Release
(Erie, PA; June 16, 2006) Erie Freeze owner David Hodas released the following statement regarding this weekend's American Indoor Football League playoff contest against the rival Canton Legends.
Hodas said, "In recent days it has come to light that the Canton Legends organization and owner Mr. Joe Hoffman were "insulted" by the Freeze's proposal to switch this weekend's playoff venue to "The Igloo" at the Tullio Arena here in Erie, Pennsylvania."
The decision by the Freeze to request a venue change was not meant as a slight to the Legends organization, players, coaches, and most importantly the team's fans.
Hodas added, "The decision to ask for the request was based on what our organization felt was best for the bottom line of the financial and media profile of the American Indoor Football League. Mr. Hoffman and the Legends are a class organization and the request was made with the thought of League and team stability heading into the playoffs and 2007 season. The Legends have earned their place on the field with tremendous effort, team spirit, and play and are due all respect warranted their position."
Mr. Hodas also included a special message to Canton's fans, "Canton, Ohio is the cradle of professional football. They are a savvy market and are an integral part of what is becoming one of our League's greatest rivalries. The fans of Canton and the AIFL are what ultimately will determine the success and longevity of the American Indoor Football League."
Despite clearing the air regarding the venue of the game, Mr. Hodas also expressed disappointed regarding a decision made by the Canton Legends regarding the playoff game Saturday night.
A disappointed Hodas explained, "Due to the magnitude of this game for the AIFL, the Freeze, and the Legends, the Freeze organization requested that our Dance Team, "The Chillers", be allowed to perform a three minute routine during the game. Even though in other Leagues opposing cheerleaders have been allowed to perform at playoff or other high profile games at opposing venues, our request was denied."
The Freeze understand what might be the thought process behind such a decision, but are disappointed in the spirit of the judgment.
"These young ladies are as dedicated to the American Indoor Football League as any owner, coach, player, staff member, or fan. We wanted to reward our Dance Team with an opportunity of a lifetime to perform on this grand stage and a trip to Canton as a token of the organization's appreciation for all the "Chillers" do for the Freeze organization," stated Hodas.
Despite the denial of the Freeze's request, the Chillers will be in Canton to inspire the Freeze to victory.
"The Chillers and all Erie fans might not be on or at the field in Canton on Saturday evening, but they will be in the spirit of our players as we keep our goal of capturing and American Indoor Football League Championship," concluded Hodas.
The Erie Freeze travel to Canton on Saturday, June 17. Kickoff is slated for 7 P.M. Catch every moment of the action with Travis Phelps on 1400 AM.
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