Arena Bowl XXVI Coming To The Amway Center

ORLANDO, Fla. — The following is a news release from the Orlando Predators:

On January 14, the Arena Football League's Board of Directors voted unanimously to award ArenaBowl XXVI to Orlando.  The ArenaBowl is the AFL's annual Championship game pitting the winner of the American Conference versus the winner of the National Conference and will air live on CBS.  ArenaBowl XXVI will be held at The Amway Center in Orlando Florida, August 17, 2013 at 1:00 p.m.

"We built the award-winning Amway Center to host national and international events with a vast array of fan amenities, which makes Orlando the ideal place to host the ArenaBowl. This event will be more than just another football game.  The AFL, Orlando Predators, City of Orlando and Visit Orlando plan to make this a major league weekend." - Mayor Buddy Dyer, City of Orlando.

"Orlando is the perfect location to host Arena Bowl XXVI. We have wonderful attractions and entertainment, world-class dining and something for every interest. Visit Orlando is thrilled to be playing a part in ArenaBowl XXVI during August - a slower time of year for both leisure and business travel - and to be giving travelers more reasons to plan a trip to Central Florida this year.”- Larry Henrichs, CFO, COO of Visit Orlando.

This year’s ArenaBowl is expected to be the most outstanding championship game yet with the broadcast returning to CBS, the nation’s most watched network.  In addition, local and league officials have been working toward securing a headline recording artist to perform a concert on the eve of the ArenaBowl. A possible halftime show using the artist could also be incorporated.

"The AFL is excited about the opportunity in Orlando and believes that with the game being broadcast on CBS and the addition of a headlining concert draw, it will contribute to ArenaBowl XXVI being the most watched arena football game to date." - AFL Commissioner Jerry B. Kurz.

About the AFL

Since its inception in 1987, the Arena Football League has showcased their fast-paced and exciting game to millions of fans in a myriad of markets across the country. CBS Sports Network will broadcast an AFL National Game of the Week on Saturday nights for the entire regular season and postseason through the semifinal round. The ArenaBowl XXVI Championship Game will air on the CBS Television Network on August 17, 2013.

WFTV