Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Commissioner Michael Huyghue - March 02, 2009

The executives at the UFL have been hard at work finalizing the remaining details for its upcoming "Premiere" season.  In the next two weeks, the UFL will be announcing its coaches and television partners followed by its stadium agreements.  The UFL is also thinking about additional ways to reach out to the League's most important ally - you, the fan.  

The UFL's first live online chat was a resounding success.  Fans began posting comments hours before it went live and the Commissioner was able to answer over 40 questions in one hour.  Even after the UFL concluded its chat, hundreds of new posts came in and the League continues to receive e-mails daily on a variety of topics.  In an effort to truly stay connected to the fans, Commissioner Huyghue answered many of the most frequently asked questions (and those that were not covered in the online chat).  His answers are posted in a new video in the website's Media Gallery. Click here to see the video

The UFL is truly a cooperative sports entity and encourages the fans to continue submitting questions and comments.  The League is in the process of scheduling another Q&A session with our Chief Operating Officer Frank Vuono.  Keep checking the site for more details.

Commissioner Huyghue also filmed a new opening video for the website.  In the video, Commissioner Huyghue references the primary markets where the league will be playing during its "Premiere" season as well as the additional cities that the League plans to visit.  One of the markets that was originally mentioned in the League's "Premiere" season announcement, Sacramento, was not included.   The UFL is still very interested in playing a home game in Sacramento but is still in talks with the city and the venue.  Once the UFL's television schedule is finalized, the League will determine if it is feasible to play in Sacramento during the 2009 "Premiere" season. 

The media continues to speculate about the UFL and report that the many of the markets are excited about being selected for the League's "Premiere" season.  Check out all the articles that have come in during the past few weeks.  Links to recent articles can be found in the website's Press section.  Commissioner Huyghue was interviewed on Orlando's Fox affiliate last week about Orlando hosting a team and what this could mean to the area.  Watch the video clip.

This is a very exciting time for the League and for professional football.  Keep checking back for the latest on the United Football League.

 

Commissioner Michael Huyghue

Comments

 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Rich Huff

Commissioner, when will we be able to see the uniforms of the teams and nicknames. also will the UFL have their own football design like the Arena League ? 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by LeForce

COME TO DENVER...COME TO DENVER!!!!! 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Linda

Please do not allow Michael Vick to be paid to play ever again. If he is hired & paid to play again it as if that team & the NFL approves of his torture & murder of all those helpless dogs. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by JO

Seems like Orlando, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and Hartford make the most sense for 2009. San Antonio and Louisville make sense for 2010. Portland and Toronto would make a strong eight team league. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by JO

Seems like Orlando, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and Hartford make the most sense for 2009. San Antonio and Louisville make sense for 2010. Portland and Toronto would make a strong eight team league. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Luke Pounds

I really hope this works out. I think it will have more heart then the NFL and I think that's what the fans want. I'm not against the NFL I think I can find room for both. I love the idea of a Thursday evening game too! 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by ACE Reality Check TV SF, CA

Hi,! Congrats on the new League and best wishes for success with the new venture. RCTV would like to be a part of this new endeavor, providing coverage and doing interviews with the players and staff, only with our unique perspective. RCTV is a long-running cable TV program with nearly 20 years in the SF Bay Area, airing on 2 cable systems in San Francisco and the East Bay, as well as online. We are an UNcensored, Unfiltered program that reaches a key demo that would perfectly suit the Team and League. We are looking to broaden our scope, and have had sports figures on the show in the past, including members of the SF 49ers and Oakland Raiders. We now are able to accept sponsorships and advertising, and are looking for ways to cross-promote our Brand. Please feel free to reach us at acespace@realitychecktv.com, or call 415.666.0894, Info about the show is available on the website provided above. Looking forward to something new and exciting!  
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Joe K

This is great! Just found out about the UFL today. We've witnessed leagues come and go over the years, but I believe that if you put these teams in markets where there are NOT NFL teams you'll have a greater chance of success. Places like Scranton, Pa, Richmond, VA Syracuse, NY and other like cities would just love this. I've lived in the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area, and now Richmond, VA - I can tell you people in these places will be excited.  
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by eric barimah

Hey Commissioner, I think that you guys should strongly considering these following cities for a possible expansion ufl team: Louisville, KY (Cardinals Stadium) Columbus, OH (Columbus Crew Stadium) San Antonio, TX (The AlamoDome) Memphis, TN (Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium) Shreveport, LA (Independence Stadium) I'm still questioning the idea of having an UFL team in San Franscisco still the NFL already have a team there. But then again the 49ers are garbage!! Maybe the citizen of SF would likely to be draw the SF UFL team especially there became the champions of the "premiere season!! I like the idea of paying the players around $300,000 per season which is the slightly higher than the NFL minmum salary for a rookie. This is a good idea because higher than the AFL players which is around $50,000 per season. Will players from the Arena Football League will have the opportunity to play in this league???? What about collegiate players from the Division I FCS, II, III, and NAIA ranks will have the opportunity to play in the UFL??? I know players whom I played with both Thomas More College and Geneva College who I think could of play at the Division 1FBS level, but got screwed at the opportunity due to various reasons such as academics, their high school didn't receive any attention from D1 scouts, etc!! I think that Michael Vick should be allowed to play in the UFL because he's an electrifying player on the field, many people would play money to see him play, and I think that no NFL Owner would allow him on their team!!! Personally, I didn't think that he should that much time in Federal Prison because killing dogs is not the worse crime that a NFL player committed!!! Examples: Matt Jones with his cocaine bust, Randy McMichael beating up his girlfriend, Cedric Benson and his DUI charge!! And the mess up thing is that these players are currenting playing in the NFL!!! 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by F. Terry

I just want to say that I think this league will be interesting to say the least but why dont you have your season in the spring or summer so that rabid football freaks like me can fill the off season void of the NFL? also i would like to see a franchise pop up here in Indiana i think we need more than just the Colts! I even have a name for a team here the Indiana Speed or maybe Indianapolis Racers because of our hosting the Indianapolis 500 every year what do you think of these ideas? good lick with this league I hope you are a sucess and you will be if you expand to at least 16 like the AFL has again good luck and god speed 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by R. Dawson

I love the idea of another league, but I think you chose a bad time. I believe going up against the NFL is a mistake, but if you had the league during the offseason, then I think it would flourish, as the AFL (Arean Football League did, until it lost its major network contract with NBC). I think you could fill the void left by the AFL, and also maybe even snatch up their contract with NBC. Just some thoughts. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Joe Simiriglio Jr

Will the UFL keep the Primadonnas' away? Will the UFL alter the Field Goal rule, where a Field goal cannot be attempted within the 30 yard line, this would allow the game to be played for touchdowns for a win, not win with a kick of the foot. Will the UFL bring back some of the original rules that have been pushed to the side to protect the high salaries of the NFL? When the UFl says "let's play ball", I hope its real football and I wish it success, Looking forward to watching the games and can't wait to see an East Coast division. Joe 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Alex Z

Best of luck in season 1. I like the coaches named. The NFL has created a glut of guys who could be an above average coach for a league like this for whenever you expand. I hope you continue to expand in a way where its not all West focused. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Tim Pratt

I too am excited about another football oppotunity. With regard to the developemental aspect of this venture (Tomorrow's Stars), how about this idea? At halftime of each game, play a scrimmage / mini game of both teams 2nd & 3rd unit players with a seven on seven passing session - no tackling. This would continue your desire to highlight all the players & give the fans added value & excitement. Looking forward with you! 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by M Benedetti

How bout this idea - PAY THE FANS. If you are a season ticket holder and your team wins the championship, the UFL cuts YOU a check for a certain amount. This would be a great way to get initial fan interest as well as to give the fans a reason to cheer on their team. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Rob

Will the league recruit players right out of high school? The fans want to see the best of the best with a play off system and the Div 1-A BCS league is missing the mark. I think it would be great to recruit head to head with the college level and pay for the best talent. Good luck with your new league. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Rodolfo Rojas

THANK YOU!!!! For bringing Football to L.A. after 14+ years of NFL drought. Very excited about this League and it's potentials. Blessings and wish you all the best..... 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Dario Perdomo

I'm looking forward to the season, but if you hire Michael Vick, I'll be forced to go back to the rigged N. F. L. 
Re: About Hartford

Posted by Chuck M.S. Jr.

Seriously, if you name the Hartford team "The Stumps" I know at least 300 people that'll buy jerseys and probably tickets. And these people are nationwide! Consider it! 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Dale Alexander

Please,,Please,, will you start up a team in Detroit,,, we are staving for some real professional football in this town,, Dale 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Jordan Paul

Dear UFL, For the longest time the city of Portland, Oregon has been deprived of a professional baseball or football team. Since the NFL and MLB won't listen I've decided to contact you. Portland has the perfect fan base for something like this. As demonstrated by Blazers fans in the 30 years since we have won a championship. Rip City would welcome you with open arms. Sincerely, Jordan Paul 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by TD, from Arizona

September training camp in Casa Grande, Arizona.....120*......I'm gonna order the guerneys now. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by G

keep the rules the same as NFL don't change it 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Ken Free

While I always root for an underdog,such as your new league,I'm concerned about the lack of competition that only 4 teams will bring.Shouldn't you wait another year so you can get more franchises?It would seem to make more sense than having only 4 teams competing for a championship. Please let us know what your thoughts on this are. Thank you. Ken Free 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Michael Pierson

I am very excited about the UFL and in the direction that the League is headed. How do I apply for a job or internship with the UFL. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by UFL FAN

I would like to see UFL teams play a series of three games back to back like baseball...Tuesday Wednesday and Thursday Night games 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by erik

why dont you have the season in the off season of the nfl that way fans can have football 365 days a year that will be great. then they will be able to attend ufl games and nfl games without paying a lot of money at the same time. thanks 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Jason

Will there be entry level positions open on coaching staffs? Quality control, GA, Scouting etc... 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Mitch R.

Will there be an age requirement, or requirement of college time similar to what the NFL has in place 
RE: Team Home Cities/Sites

Posted by Lavar

Have been reading about cities chosen thus far, and hope that future plans will consider a team for each individual city below: Los Angeles, CA Las Vegas, NV Sacramento, CA Portland, OR Salt Lake City, UT Boise, ID Santa Fe, NM San Antonio, TX Little Rock, AR Birmingham, AL Louisville, KY Columbus, OH Some of these cities once had teams in other leagues; I believe most of them have a high enough current population/interest to support a UFL franchise. It would also be nice if UFL seasons took place either before or after NFL & College seasons, so that "football season" could be *extended* rather than cluttered. The AFL has been doing as much in recent years, though it's unclear how "successful" this practice is in the wake of their '09 Season being canceled.. Good luck with your project. I look forward to seeing on TV in October whatever product you provide to us football fans. Should be fun! 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Marty Black

The UFL should position itself to eventually be the "farm clubs" for the NFL. Utilizing the farm team club of MLB, UFL teams could be made up of practice squad players from the NFL and be a developmental league for players entering the NFL. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Marty Black

UFL should consider a reality show during training camp. The league needs to personalize its players and generate excitement in the upcoming season. Also, Vs is not a standrd channel on most media providers. The UFL should consider another media outlet to air its games. Even if another outlet will not pay as well as Vs, the brand would "get out there" more, than it would by airing on Vs. The majority of fans will be unable to see your product. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by J.R.Thomas

Wonderful,to see you filling in the football void,between Super Bowl and NFL schedule. What about job opportunities for the Bay Area Community ? Thanks, I wish you well. J.R. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Bull Marcotte

This a great idea! You should check out possible investors in New Orleans. We are huge football fans down here and would love another team. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Mark V

Put a team in Columbus, Ohio - you'll sell the place out. The NFL thinks it's too good for us. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Ron Fernando

Best of luck in your new league, I really hope you guys succeed . I believe the NFL has rightly earned its nickname as the No Fun League with its staid, boring conservative approach to everything including the game. I have always been a huge fan of college football because of the variety of offenses ( Spread, Power-I, Multiple Spread, and now Single Wing) you see between teams. This makes for fun and highly entertaining games with some great athletes. When some of these athletes go to the NFL, they are told to conform to their "style" of play. Tim Tebow of Florida is one of the most exciting quarterbacks to ever don pads, but the NFL brain trusts and so called experts are trying to convert him into a fullback , tight end or motion back because he doesn't fit their mold of a NFL type QB. Pat White of West Virginia is another in this mold.I hope you guys don't follow this path, because by doing so you will exclude a lot of great athletes from your rosters. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Douglas Belluche

Hello Commissioner Huyghue! I just want to say that I support the UFL all the way and I am happy that their is going to be a football league made for us fans. I am also very happy about the response from all the other fans around the world who are pulling for the UFL. I hope everything goes well and I just want you to know that.... CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA WANTS A TEAM!!!!! 
Suggestion

Posted by Mark Prado

Glad to hear the UFL will give it a go. Here's an idea, how about NO PUNTING...Teams have to go for it no matter where they are on the field. It would make for more offense and generate some headlines as well. What's more boring than a punt? Make the UFL the "Go For It" league!. Good luck. 
Rule suggestion

Posted by Chuck Gilar

In an attempt to keep fan interest throughout an entire game, NO GAME IS OVER UNTIL THE FINAL WHISTLE. Teams may attempt a 2 point conversion after a TD. If they are still trailing they may attempt a "bonus conversion". This would consist of lining up for a play and earning 1 point for each yard if they reach the endzone in that one play. For example: Team A is behind by 14 points. They convert a 2 point conversion. They are behind by 12 points. If they decide to try a bonus conversion they lineup at the 12 yard line. If they convert they would tie the game. If they do not score they are still down by 12 points. The bonus conversion could not be attempted if the 2 point conversion is missed. Teams could never attempt a bonus conversion that would give them the lead, only a tie. The downside to a failed bonus conversion would be kicking off from their own goal line instead of the 30.  
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by chris

i cant tell you how excited i am to have pro football come to orlando. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Chris Gay

Mr. Huyghue, First of all, you deserve tremendous thanks for including the Hartford market in your new endeavor. Getting pro football here in CT is second only to getting the NHL Whalers back. I plan to attend a few of these games and I have but one request-I'd love to see Hartford's rich historical heritage reflected in our franchise nickname. At any rate, thank you again, sir, for your foresight and for believing in our market. I feel we will justify it. Best Regards, Chris 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Steven Ellwood

I live in Wisconsin and would like to view the UFL games on television. Hopefully the cable network the UFL is considering is a national network so fans in rual america will be able to watch the games. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Perry Buxton

I saw Mr. Huyghue video and I hope that the UFL will be success because we need another Pro football sport besides the NFL. I think that the fans will enjoy it and I know I will enoy it are be playing for one of the teams. 
Re: Commissioner Huyghue Responds to Fans Via Video Message

Posted by Dan

hey commish, im excited for the UFL to actually come, and also im excited for the New USFL. I realized that you plan to have games on Thurs & Fri. nights. I thought at first that was foolish, but now it doesnt seem so bad. More nights of football is pretty good. This is wut im gonna do. Ill try to see an NY game, since i live here and also attend a USFL NY game. Considering the fact that combining ticket prices of the UFL and USFL is a lot cheaper than one NFL ticket, its not a bad idea to see a game every so often. However, its gonna be pretty wild thinking about 3 pro football leagues at one time... 
 
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