New York Football Unites
September 24, 2008 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
New York Dragons News Release
New York, NY - New York Dragons Defensive Back Billy Parker unveiled the team's new logo yesterday at the Sports Museum of America alongside new Dragons Advisory Board members Kerry Rhodes of the New York Jets and Danny Clark of the New York Giants.
The Dragons new logo is the first step taken by the AFL team's new management group led by Steven and Shanna Silva to revamp the eight year old team's look and feel. The group led by the Silvas purchased the team from former owner Charles Wang on July 25, 2008.
"We want to bring a brand new start to the Dragons football team," Silva said prior to the logo's unveiling. "Updating the logo is just the beginning. We want to show fans that making sure they have the ultimate fan experience is paramount to this management team. From putting the best football team possible out on the field every night, to making sure fan involvement and customer service is the best it can be, this is the 'new' New York Dragons."
The Dragons also announced their partnership with New York Jets Safety Kerry Rhodes and New York Giants Linebacker Danny Clark. Rhodes and Clark have joined the Dragons as members of the team's Board of Advisors and will bring their expertise in the field of professional football to the Dragons management group.
"We're so excited to have both NFLers on board giving the Dragons support throughout the season," said Silva. "It shows how dedicated both Kerry and Danny are to growing the sport of football - as well as fan support of football - in the greater New York area."
The Dragons are not the first team in the AFL to have current or former NFL players join their ownership group or advisory board. John Elway is a part owner of the Colorado Crush, Mike Ditka is involved with the Chicago Rush and Ron Jaworski is affiliated with the Philadelphia Soul, to name a few.
"The AFL has a history of partnering with NFL teams and players, many of our players have come from NFL teams or have gone on to careers in the NFL, and many AFL teams have former NFL players in upper management positions," Silva added. "There is a symbiotic relationship between the two leagues. What's great about having Kerry and Danny on board with the Dragons is that they have their finger on the pulse of the New York football fan. We are looking to expand our reach to those passionate football fans, who may not yet be familiar with the Dragons. Once Kerry and Danny's season ends with the Jets and the Giants, the Dragons' season begins and that passionate fan has an outlet to remain excited about football. They don't have to wait six months for NFL preseason to begin."
As part of the Dragons partnership with Rhodes and Clark, both players will be making several appearances at Dragons games to sign autographs and generate excitement about the Dragons and they will both be active members of the Dragons board.
"I am pleased to be a part of an organization such as the New York Dragons," Rhodes said. "I feel with the talent, my experience as a professional football player and position on the Board of Advisors will allow me to explore options to enhance this team. I am excited and we are looking forward to a great season."
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Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from September 24, 2008
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