Wow...where did this come from? Yesterday the USL Div 1 Silverbacks announced they are taking the 2009 season off citing the slow down in the economy and the chance that Atlanta will be awarded an MLS franchise as the reasons.
“This was an extremely difficult decision that was prompted by the dynamic events in our economy and the soccer community. We would like to thank all of our fans and partners who have supported the team over the years and hope they continue to come out to the Women’s games,” said Atlanta Silverbacks General Manager, Michael Oki.
That sounds a lot like the end of the Men's franchise to me.
I'm also guessing this means subsequent phases of RE/MAX Greater Atlanta Stadium get put on ice...at least for the next several years...but I really can't figure this move out...what the hell does the 5% chance that Atl will get an MLS team have to do with the USL div 1?
Are they declaring bankruptcy, are they boarding up the shop, are they letting the current roster & staff go and are going to try rebuilding in 2010, are they going to continue marketing?
Finally, I think a national model for USL is a bit much anyway...too much travel stress and it doesn't generate enough rivalry...I'd like to see more USL teams but see them broken in to regions, like an NCAA gridiron model.
The regular season could be inter region while you could have an end of season tournament to determine the champion (along with the Open Cup, etc.)
3 comments:
Coaches, players, office staff all gone.
oh man...that sucks. Is there a path forward for 2010?
It appears that the Silverbacks owner may have tossed the team and fans aside for an investment in the upcoming MLS venture. That is a rumor but we will see shortly what happens.
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