No third season for Renegades; indoor football team disbands
October 16, 2006 - World Indoor Football League 2 (WIFL 2)
Rome Renegades News Release
Harry Pierce and partners regret to announce the dissolution of their two indoor football teams, the Rome Renegades and the Carolina Bombers (formerly the Raleigh Rebels). Both teams were members of the newly formed World Indoor Football League (WIFL).
With regards to the Carolina Bombers, Pierce states that "it was always our goal to have local ownership of that team. We plan to leave the field and other assets of the Carolina team in place in the hopes that WIFL will be able to use those resources with an expansion team if a new owner comes forward."
The decision about the Rome Renegades, however, was more than just about assets.
"This is the hardest business decision I have had to make in a long time. Everyone who knows me or who has attended a game knows how passionate I am about the sport, and how much I have enjoyed it. We made a difference in a lot of young men's lives. I only wish it could have been more," says Pierce.
Pierce goes on to state that "with limited seating and parking at The Forum, the venue will never be a financially viable venue for professional sports. If the leaders of this community believe that the stadium for the Rome Braves was a success, then they must believe that a quality arena for multiple professional sports with year-round use would also be a success.
"With the proposed SPLOST set for 39 months, it would be another 5 years before we could propose and build a new arena built in this community. That's too much of a financial burden to continue playing at The Forum."
"I'd like to personally thank all of our fans and sponsors for two great seasons," says Pierce.
Season ticket holders and sponsors for the 2007 season should contact Doug Walker after Oct. 23 for a refund. The Rome Renegades staff will remain in place to close operations. Their future plans will be announced at a later date.
The World Indoor Football League will continue to grow as an indoor football league. Pierce has committed to helping the league grow into the most professionally organized league in the industry, but is no longer affiliated with the league as a team owner.
• Discuss this story on the World Indoor Football League 2 message board...
World Indoor Football League 2 Stories from October 16, 2006
- WIFL continues forward, thanks Harry Pierce for contributions - WIFL 2
- No third season for Renegades; indoor football team disbands - Rome Renegades
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