Arthur M. Blank Buys Georgia Force - Arena Football League - On MLN Sports Zone

Blank to Buy Force
Agreement reached to sell AFL's Georgia Force to Atlanta Falcons owner.

05.24.04 -Atlanta, GA – By the end of the summer, you should see the Georgia Force join the growing list of Arena Football League [AFL] teams with NFL owners.

Atlanta Falcons owner /CEO Arthur M. Blank and Georgia Force owner/chairman Virgil R. Williams have reached an agreement in principle for the sale of the team to Blank.

"Selling the Georgia Force to Arthur Blank is a unique opportunity to link our club and Arena Football with a broader sports entertainment drive in our city and state," said Williams. "As Arthur has demonstrated over the last two years, he has a passion for creating a great fan experience and building a winning franchise. There is no better fit for the Force, and I am proud to be able to provide this opportunity to our players, staff and fans."

According to the preliminary agreement, Williams will retain a minor financial interest in the Force for a four-year period.

Williams is the man responsible for bringing the AFL to Georgia. He gained majority ownership of the Nashville Kats in 2001, relocated the club to Atlanta and renaming the team the Georgia Force. The Force now plays its home games at The Arena at Gwinnett Center located in Gwinnett County.

Blank intends to continue building on the foundation Williams has established with the Force.

"Three years ago, Virgil had the vision to bring AFL football to the people of Georgia," said Blank. "Today, our shared vision is to watch the Georgia Force continue to grow and thrive through the skills and experience we have gained in the NFL and the Falcons.

"This acquisition underscores our commitment to the region and to sports," Blank continued. "We intend to put the same passion into building this franchise as we continue to put into the Falcons. This will be a team our fans will embrace for years to come, and all of Georgia will be proud to call their own."

Barring no problems, ownership should change hands by the end of August 2004.