AF2 PURCHASES IFL, COULD PUSH LEAGUE TO 36 TEAMS IN 2001

          af2 has purchased the 21-franchise IFL, "clearing the
     way for expansion of up to" 36 teams for the 2001 season,
     according to Mike Brown of the TULSA WORLD.  But af2 Exec
     Dir Mary Ellen Garling said that it "is more likely" af2
     "could have between" 26 and 28 teams.  Under the deal, each
     of the IFL's 21 franchises will be "evaluated for possible
     membership" in af2 (TULSA WORLD, 10/21).  IFL Lincoln
     Lightning co-Owner Andrew Cheesman, on joining af2: "This is
     an incredible step for us.  This is serious football with
     national recognition" (Omaha WORLD-HERALD, 10/21).  In IA,
     IFL Sioux City Attack GM Jim Steele said that the
     "possibility of fielding" a team in af2 next year "is
     extremely remote."  Steele: "The price tag for an af2
     franchise is extremely high and right now it's doubtful if a
     local ownership group comes forth" (S.C. JOURNAL, 10/21).