Rattlers Set To Move Football Operations To Mesa
Published on January 23, 2008 under Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Arizona Rattlers News Release
PHOENIX - The Arizona Rattlers announced today that the team will move its football operations component, including all team practices, to Gene Autry Park in Mesa, Arizona.
"We're excited about this move," said team Managing Partner Brett Bouchy. "We feel that this arrangement is beneficial for both sides. The City of Mesa has been great throughout the entire process, and we're looking forward to working with them for a long time."
The facility, which is located at 4125 McKellips Road near Greenfield, is the former training site of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. It includes a clubhouse, complete with office space and locker rooms. Construction will begin on an Arena Football regulation field adjacent to the team's clubhouse. The Rattlers are expected to begin holding practices there as soon as construction on the new field is completed.
"This is a win-win for everybody involved," said Head Coach Kevin Guy of his team's impending move. "This is a first-class facility, and our players will be excited about being a part of the community."
Gene Autry Park is named for the actor, musician and radio personality. "The Singing Cowboy" was the owner and president of the Angels until his death at age 91 in 1998. The park took his name when the Angels constructed the clubhouse and practice field in 1984. Since the Angles moved out in 2006, the park has been used for a variety of baseball tournaments.
The Arizona Rattlers sponsor a wide variety of community-based programs, highlighted by the team's "Hand Off to Kids" program. The program provides underprivileged children who are served by the Valley's non-profit organizations an opportunity to attend an Arizona Rattlers home game. In addition, the team has previously hosted Arena Football clinics and open tryouts, as well as run school-based US Army football clinics.
The 2008 Arizona Rattlers kickoff their 17th season in March, and have guaranteed their season ticket holders a trip to the playoffs. Season tickets, group tickets and premium single game tickets can be purchased by calling 602-379-2333.
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