af2 and Burn to Operate as Usual for the 2009 Season

Amidst news reports and rumors that are beginning to swirl about the Arena Football League?s state of affairs, the Boise Burn want to assure fans that the 2009 season will go on as usual.The Arena Football League is a shareholder in the af2, but the af2 operates entirely on its own ? therefore it is not directly affected by the AFL?s current situation. The af2?s single-entity business model has created sound and sensible economic structure ? the league employs all players, coaches and officials.Twenty-five af2 team ownership groups are personally and financially committed to operate in 2009. In addition, the 2009 schedule was finalized and released in early November and teams, including the Boise Burn, are currently building rosters, selling season tickets and hiring additional staff.The af2 league is still growing ? two (2) new expansion teams are already committed for the 2010 season ? Toledo, Ohio (Toledo Bullfrogs) and Worcester, Mass. And, two brand new league partners have come on board (Aaron?s, Russell Athletic), both on multi-year levels.The NFL continues to be a partner with the league on its officiating program where the NFL assists the af2 in official staffing and instructionThe af2 is coming off one of its most successful campaigns in 2008:? Fifth time in nine (9) seasons that the league?s total attendance figure topped 1 million fans? Best attended ArenaCup Championship game in league history (10,662 fans in Spokane, Wash.) ? fans were treated to the best title game in league history as Tennessee Valley scored a dramatic 55-54 overtime victory over the host Shock Today (12/10/08), the AFL released the following statement:STATEMENT BY AN AFL SPOKESMAN Despite rumors and reports to the contrary, all AFL teams are continuing to work towards ArenaBowl XXIII. As it has previously stated, the AFL continues to work on long-term structural improvement options. Some of the options may impact the 2009 season. There is currently no timetable for an announcement of any kind. We remain grateful to our fans for their enthusiasm and patience.- www.boiseburn.com -