Baltimore Gets Another Pro Football Team

BALTIMORE (WJZ)-- Baltimore football fans will soon have another home team to root for, but don't worry the Ravens aren't going anywhere.

Monumental Sports and Entertainment announced it's new Arena Football League team will play at the Royal Farms Arena starting in the spring of 2017.

Baltimore loves its football. You can't walk down the street without seeing someone in a Ravens shirt. Now, the end of the NFL season will no longer mean the end of football.

Arena football puts fans face-to-face with each play, pass and tackle.  The more intimate, indoor seating, is often considered more fast-paced than a stadium-game and now it's coming to Baltimore.

"I'd like it. I'd like to see it," said Anthony Matus.

In a radio interview with WTOP Monday morning, owner Ted Leonsis explains why he chose Charm City.

"I wanted to show commitment to the league, commitment to our employees, commitment to the city of Baltimore," said Leonsis.

The team is currently searching for a head coach who'll oversee Baltimore's football operation, and assemble a staff and roster.

Baltimore's team joins the Washington Valor as the newest teams in the AFL, creating a natural set of rivals along with Philadelphia, with the potential to bring new visitors to downtown.

The Royal Farms Arena, Baltimore's largest indoor sports facility, attracts 800, 000 guests each year.

"Hey, I think it's great any opportunity. Something new. Something fun for everyone," said football fan Debbie Okon.

But some football fans say there's no room for a new team in Raven's nation.

"Cramped. Just seeing it on TV, you know short field, small field," said  John Smith, another football fan.

"I think people would rather see the other football game," said Don Okon.

"By the end of the NFL season you're ready to move on to a different sport," said Tom Evans, a football fan.

The new coach, team name and logo will be announced in the coming weeks.

Fans can already get season tickets for the Baltimore arena football team at Ticker Master or by calling 667-930-0200.

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