Katrina forces VooDoo to suspend play for 2006
September 28, 2005 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I) News Release
NEW YORK - The Arena Football League announced today that due to the catastrophic effects of Hurricane Katrina, including the damage sustained by the New Orleans Arena, the New Orleans VooDoo will not compete in 2006, however, with a vote taken yesterday, the AFL Board of Directors moved the city of New Orleans to the top of the list of cities that will host future ArenaBowls.
"Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to the people of New Orleans," said Commissioner DAVID BAKER. "This decision was made with heavy hearts. We looked at a number of alternatives but felt it was in the best interests of the city, team and its fans to step aside and allow them to concentrate on more important things. When the reconstruction is complete, the AFL hopes to bring the ArenaBowl to the greatest party city in the world."
VooDoo owner TOM BENSON will continue to employ the team's administrative staff and head coach MIKE NEU, who has compiled a 20-12 (.625) regular-season record in two seasons in New Orleans and will immediately begin preparations for the VooDoo's return. A Dispersal Draft will be held for the players under contract to the VooDoo.
"The decision has been made to suspend play of the New Orleans VooDoo in New Orleans for the 2006 season. Factors beyond our control are forcing us to make this decision," said Benson, who also owns the NFL's New Orleans Saints. "We will not have a facility available to us to play our games, we will not be able to house players and staff and we will not be able to utilize our practice facility as it is being used by the government for Hurricane Katrina operations."
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