THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK or at least they will. The long awaited name announcement of the new team that will play football inside the Times Union Center in downtown Albany is here and it's The Albany Empire.

The reigning Arena League Champions will get a chance to defend their title now in the National Arena League. This is the great news that I was hoping for. The announcement made the return of the Empire official earlier today in a press release from the NAL.

 

 

“It has been one of the most exciting thrills of my professional career acquiring the Albany Empire. We would like to thank the National Arena League, its owners, and the city of Albany for their patience and dedication. We look forward to returning to the Capital Region and continuing the amazing winning tradition that has been laid before us,” said Ron Tridico, Owner, Albany Empire.

The Albany Empire will be a part of the National Arena League (NAL), which currently consists of 9 teams. The season is set to begin in April of 2021, and season tickets are on sale now! The Albany Empire had a winning record of 22-7 from 2018-2019, most notably winning ArenaBowl XXXII in front of 12,000 fans and a nationally televised audience.

"I am very excited that I will once again be the Head Coach of the organization called the Albany Empire. The Empire name is synonymous with winning and excitement,” exclaimed Rob Keefe, Head Coach, Albany Empire. “We are going to do everything possible to win games and continue to build an awesome culture for Albany and the Capital Region."

Break out your Empire gear and Storm Trooper masks we get to party at the Times Union Center and root on our Albany Empire!

 

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