Locals Love to ‘Express’ Themselves at IFL Games
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That’s San Angelo Stampede Express co-owner Darlene Jones’s description of the atmosphere at the San Angelo Coliseum when the team takes on one of its opponents in the Intense Football League.
For spectators weary of the NFL’s minutes of idling followed by short bursts of action, IFL games can be just the ticket. With a 50-yard field, half the NFL length, and eight men on a side instead of 11, the touchdowns come fast and furious, scores frequently hitting the high double digits. Rosters are stocked primarily with former college football players.
“We’ve got half the field, twice the excitement,” Jones says. “Our fans probably help us score as many touchdowns as our players do.”
According to Jones, Stampede Express fans span all age groups and include an even split of men and women. The variety lends to a family-friendly experience at games.
The Stampede Express drew roughly 3,000 fans to each home game in 2007. Giveaways and promotions play a big role in entertaining fans, as well.
“Every time-out, every break in the action, we have a promotion. [From] games on the field to giveaways, there’s always something going on,” Jones says. “On average, we probably have 15 to 20 giveaways throughout the game. There’s never any dead time. “
The Indoor Football League’s season runs 14 games, from the beginning of March to the end of June.
Story by Jon Brooks
