Garff Automotive Group brings professional football to Utah

Published on April 22, 2005 under Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Utah Blaze News Release


SALT LAKE CITY – The Ken Garff Automotive Group officially announced its purchase of an Arena Football League (AFL) franchise at a press conference today. The new Utah franchise will join existing AFL teams such as the Colorado Crush, the Georgia Force and the Philadelphia Soul. The team will be coached by former Arizona Rattlers coach Danny White and will begin play in the 2006 season.

"We're thrilled to have Danny and are confident that this is the first critical step in bringing a championship caliber professional football team to Utah," said Jason Jones, President of the Utah AFL Franchise. "Coach White was our first and only choice. Not only is he a legendary football player, but he's also one of the most successful coaches in the 19-year history of the AFL."

Named the Arena Football League Coach of the Year in 1993, White's 141 wins rank him second all time. He has also been to the Arena Bowl five times and has won the Championship twice. With 20 postseason victories, he ranks second only to Tampa Bay's Tim Marcum. In 2002 White was inducted into the AFL Hall of Fame.

Ken Garff Enterprises COO and President John Garff said, "Our family is pleased to bring professional football to Utah and we are confident that we have the structure in place to build a franchise that this great state can be proud to support. One of the most important community initiatives for Garff Enterprises is that we provide and promote high-quality fun and affordable entertainment for Utahans of all ages to enjoy."

About the Arena Football League

On the strength of its Mission Statement and Fans' Bill of Rights, the Arena Football League - the second-longest running football league in U.S. history – is in its 19th season. Often recognized as one of the nation's most affordable and fan-friendly sports leagues, the Arena Football League is America's fastest-growing sport. In 2005, the AFL celebrates its third season on NBC and its first season of comprehensive regional broadcasts on Fox Sports Net.

About the Ken Garff Automotive Group

Ken Garff Automotive Group is based in Salt Lake City, with 45 stores and 11 locations throughout Utah. In addition to new car franchises, the organization includes six collision repair centers and three used car stores. A successful business for 72 years, Ken Garff Automotive Group is dedicated to the values of quality, customer service, honesty and integrity. The Ken Garff Automotive Group sells and services Jaguar, Volvo, Mercedes, Porsche, Ford, Volkswagen, Audi, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Hyundai, Saab, GMC, Pontiac, Chevrolet, Cadillac, Mazda, Lincoln, Mercury, Buick and Honda.

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Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from April 22, 2005


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