'96 Chronology- South Bound

Event Date: February 22nd, 1996

Event Description: Frey Eyes Franchise

Source: Sun Times

A group of investors from Miami has formally applied for a franchise in the new All American Football League officials announced yesterday.

Miami developer Bruce Frey heads the group for the prospective franchise, which would play its games in the 74,000-seat Orange Bowl.  The new south Florida team will be called the Manatees and proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to local charities.

Frey had previously shown interest in purchasing the Las Vegas franchise, but those plans fell through when a rival group led by singer Jimmy Buffett purchased the rights to a team there.

League commissioner John Ralston will be meeting with local officials and investors later in the week. If Miami is approved, it would become the A.A.F.L.'s sixth franchise.

more to come......