Group headed by Walter Robb purchases controlling interest of Conquest
Published on February 17, 2005 under arenafootball2 (af2)
Albany Firebirds News Release
Albany, N.Y., February 17, 2005 â Capital Region businessmen, Walter Robb, Jim Morrell, and Don LedDuke have purchased controlling interest of the Albany Conquest arenafootball2 team and will operate the club. Big Win Ventures, who had previously operated the Conquest since February 2003, will retain a minority interest in the team, while Robb will act as the operating partner for the group. In addition, the Albany Conquest has agreed to a three-year lease extension with the Pepsi Arena.
"We are excited about the future of the Albany Conquest in the Capital Region and a three-year lease extension with the Pepsi Arena is an indicator of our dedication to the area," said Mr. Robb. "With Coach Richard Davis and the talented players being assigned, we are optimistic that we are placing a Championship brand of Arena Football on the field and we are focused on winning. From a business standpoint, we will be combining the front office staffs of the Albany River Rats and the Albany Conquest in an effort to streamline cost structure and to have focus among departmental functions," added Mr. Robb.
Robb, owner of the Albany River Rats of the American Hockey League and former Senior Vice President with General Electric, has resided in the Capital Region for 41 years. Morrell is the owner of Latham-based Pamal Broadcasting and LedDuke is owner of BBL Construction Services.
"By taking a controlling interest in the team, Mr. Robb's group has assured the fans of the Conquest that Arena Football will continue in Albany for many, many years," said af2 Executive Director Jerry Kurz. "Having local operators at the helm is the best case scenario for the Conquest."
The Conquest are entering their fourth season and will play their home opener against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Pioneers on April 15. The season will consist of a 16-game schedule, including eight home dates at Pepsi Arena (four Friday and four Saturday night games) with all home contests slated to begin at 7:30 p.m. Albany, who competes in the five-team East Division of the 20-team af2, has a 33-17 record all-time including playoffs and ranked seventh among af2 teams in 2004 averaging 5,883 fans per game.
To order Albany Conquest season tickets please call the Conquest front offices at (518) 487-2222 or visit their website at www.albanyconquest.com.
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