OT: Baltimore Mariners forfeit last two games

[Nightman]

It doesn't look good for the Baltimore Mariners Arena Football team. After their first loss of the season to Cape Fear they now have a dispute with the Arena and forfeited tonight's game against Atlanta. Since next weeks game with Cleveland had no affect on the standings, that game is also cancelled and they will await the playoff seedings. I would not be surprised if they had the play their postseason games entirely on the road. Looks like the AIF team has hit an iceberg and there probably be no season next year.

http://www.baltimore-mariners.com/to...press-release/

[GOTA]

That's bad news. Sounds like the end.

[Nightman]

That's bad news. Sounds like the end.

Here is a statement I copied from the Mariners Facebook page, if they will be around next year they should find a smaller venue:

“Official release by Front Office of The Baltimore Mariners”

The Baltimore Mariners are apologizing to fans and supporters after a joint press release from the American Indoor Football league and the Baltimore Mariners announced the remaining two Mariners’ home games, set to be held at the Baltimore Arena, would be cancelled. While the details of the AIF’s plans to move forward with an early end to the season are accurate, the Baltimore Mariners say the joint statement may have led to misconceptions regarding the reasons for the game cancellations in the first place.

The Mariners’ administration has restrained from making an official statement, under the advisement of the AIF, until all details regarding the season were solidified with all parties involved.

According to the Mariners, the team and the Baltimore Arena were not in a dispute, as previously worded in the original announcement. The decision to cancel the remaining home games was a mutual one between both stakeholders due to shortcomings in the Mariners’ financial situation.

“I and all of my staff have the utmost respect for Mr. Frank Remesch and the entire Baltimore Arena staff,” Tom Conserette, Owner/CEO of the Baltimore Mariners, said. “Mr. Remesch has often gone above and beyond to help us succeed. We, the front office, accept full responsibility for what has transpired and I commend the arena personnel for all they have done for us in this trying first year of business.”

At this time, the Mariners are concentrating on the playoffs and finishing out the 2014 season with a championship. The organization has assembled a top notch coaching staff and a roster of players that is second to none. The Mariners want to stress the team’s and the AIF’s dedication and hard work through the adversity they’ve endured this season.

“Our staff and players, with the aid of the AIF, have proven their devotion to providing a family-oriented entertainment experience for the Baltimore community,” Conserette said. “We want to thank the AIF for their help moving forward. The league’s front office has been very helpful with strategies to navigate this difficult first year. We look forward to continuing to work with them as we finish the 2014 season.”

The Mariners’ front office acknowledges both the mistakes and milestones they’ve made, as most first year businesses experience. The organization’s focus now is getting the team prepared for the playoffs and making a run to bring the AIF Championship back to Baltimore.

For more information regarding the Baltimore Mariners, the AIF or the remainder of the AIF season, please contact Tom Conserette directly at tomc@baltimore-mariners.com or by visiting the Mariners’ website and Facebook page. The Mariners want to thank you for your continued support