Rifles: Springfield to host NAFL championship contest

The Springfield Rifles were awarded the bid to host the 2002 North American Football League national championship game, according to an Aug. 29 announcement by league President Rob Licopoli and league Commissioner Todd Allen.

The game is scheduled for Oct. 19 at JFK Stadium.

"It is with great pleasure that the North American Football League designates Springfield, Missouri, as the site of the 2002 NAFL National Championship Game," said Allen during a news conference.

"I have experienced first-hand the great job the Rifles organization does, and their ability to put on a great event."

Licopoli joined the press conference from the NAFL office in New York. He explained how Springfield was selected.

"We decided to take a different approach for the championship game this year and wanted to consider sites that would work in conjunction with the league to make it as cost-effective as possible for any team to travel and participate in this game. We selected a group of teams and cities from around the country that we felt possessed the ability to host the game and asked them to submit bids," said Licopoli.

"Springfield responded with a comprehensive and detailed bid that demonstrated their understanding and ability to hold and promote the game whether they are in it or not."

Rifles General Manager Greg McGrath said fan support and a good facility helped get the game.

"We're incredibly excited about this opportunity to host the game," said McGrath.

"We believe that we have a great facility, exceptional fan support, and the ability to put on a first-class event. Whether the Rifles are in the game or not, we welcome the opportunity to showcase the two best teams the NAFL has to offer in a true national championship contest."

JFK Stadium was rebuilt in phases beginning in 2000, and a new Astro-Play surface was installed last year.

Additional construction has been completed which boosts seating capacity to more than 4,000 and includes a field-level locker room.

"Setting the location in advance gives every playoff team ample time to make preparations," Allen said. "It also gives the host city/team the opportunity to promote the event, as well as the league a chance to secure sponsorships. It's a win-win situation for everyone."

Playoffs begin Sept. 14 with 32 teams representing four conferences from across the country, and will span a four-week period through Oct. 5. There will be an off week Oct. l2, prior to the championship game.