Post by David on Feb 26, 2016 14:31:57 GMT -8
2.26.16-
Earlier this week, the Arena Football League announced that the Portland Thunder had been re-branded as the Portland Steel. On Friday, the franchise brand known as the Thunder tweeted a thank you to its fans with the hashtag "#thunder4ever."
There is no true confirmation as to who posted the tweet, but it is likely that the tweet was sent out by former owner Terry Emmert, whose ownership was revoked after the AFL took over operations of the Thunder in early January. At the time, Commissioner Scott Butera stated that the league takeover was to "stabilize the team in the Portland market."
The team recently underwent a re-branding process as the Portland Steel due to Emmert owning the Thunder logo and trademarks. Rather than try and buy out the trademarks from Emmert, the league opted for the cheaper alternative of a re-brand.
Emmert's been on record about his displeasure over the league's takeover of his team, "(I was caught) 'off guard," he said in an interview with The Portland Tribune. “(I had) legitimate and serious concerns regarding some of the league’s operational practices.” In February, Emmert posted a letter to Portland season ticket holders and fans, stating "the League, without notice to me, issued the press release announcing their “decision” to take over the control of the team."
While the tweet appears to be a goodbye, it might not be the end of the Thunder brand. Various, unconfirmed rumors have floated on the Internet that Emmert could try and bring the Thunder back next year. One rumor has the Thunder to the AFL in 2017 if the Steel fail this season, while another has Emmert possibly taking the Thunder brand to the Indoor Football League.
- DKH
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