Cash-strapped UFL delays start of 2012 season
The financially troubled United Football League will push back the start of its 2012 season from Sept. 19 to Sept. 26.
The UFL still intends to play an eight-game schedule, with the title game now tentatively set for Dec. 1. CBS Sports Network will still televise the league, which enters its fourth year.
"We'll have a statement (today)," Locomotives president and head coach Jim Fassel said Wednesday. "It will give us more time to get ready, and CBS was fine with delaying the start of the season."
The four-team league, which includes the two-time champion Locos, still has financial and legal issues to work out, which has delayed the start of training camp. The Locos were supposed to begin practice Aug. 23, but between settling prior debts with UNLV and waiting for an infusion of capital, the team wasn't ready to work out.
Thomas & Mack Center director Mike Newcomb, who oversees Sam Boyd Stadium, said if the Locos can settle up with the school, they can return to the facility. Newcomb and Fassel have a verbal agreement for 2012, but as of Wednesday nothing had been signed.
"If we get the money owed us and they can pay for the (2012) season, we'll be glad to have them back," Newcomb said. The Locos owe UNLV $80,000 for last season, but that debt has reportedly been bargained down to $35,000, since the team did not play its final two home games and would not be charged for stadium rental.
"I can understand people are skeptical, but our owners are totally committed to playing this season," Fassel said. "I know there's a lot of issues. It's been a battle, but we're still standing and we're still fighting, and we will play in Las Vegas this season."
Contact reporter Steve Carp at scarp@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2913.
