BREAKING: AFL Collapse Speculation Was “Overblown”

Throughout the day, ESPN sizzled with speculation that AFL was on the verge of collapse. Statements were released. Stories were continuously updated and finally, moments ago, it was announced that the AFL, with sixteen franchises, including our own Columbus Destroyers, will play in 2009.

According to a Destroyers senior official, who spoke with us on condition of anonymity, the hyperbole was ridiculous. “The back and fourth was never a back and fourth,” he said. “Have there been discussions about how we can improve as a league. Yes. Have there been discussions about canceling an entire season? None that I was involved in. None that I have been told about. The whole thing was completely overblown.”

“Are things bad?” he continued. “The economy is in the toilet. We’re hurting. Baseball, Basketball, Hockey is hurting. But, the Blue Jackets and Clippers remain viable and so do we.”

Since moving from Buffalo in 1999, the Destroyers have been very well attended. This despite an overall 28-54 record, which includes only one playoff appearance. In 2007, the Destroyers won the National Conference. Unfortunately, the lost Arena Bowl XXI to the San Jose Saber Cats 55-33.