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Detroit-based Stars Football League LLC “aims to begin play in April at the Pontiac Silverdome and at stadiums in four Southern states,” according to Bill Shea of CRAIN'S DETROIT BUSINESS. SFL Founder Peter Huthwaite, a “former player agent-turned-real estate investor,” said that he is “investing his own money in the football league, along with cash from several co-investors he declined to name.” He “declined to say how much money is being fronted to launch the league," which will have an office in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., "other than it's ‘several million.’" The league is “selling five franchises for $1.5 million each, with the sixth to be run by the league.” Unsold teams also will be "operated by the league.” As an "incentive, the SFL will cover all payroll and stadium lease costs for the first two years for any franchises that are sold.” The SFL is also selling 40 shares, "or units, in the league at $100,000 each.” The league's financial model is “based on averaging 10,000 fans over 30 games buying $20 tickets -- which would raise $6 million.” Players will wear jerseys with “up to six sponsorship logo patches, similar to pro soccer or NASCAR gear.” The league is “planning its marketing and is in talks with regional broadcast outlets to air games.” The six franchises include teams in Detroit; Mobile, Ala.; Ft. Lauderdale; New Orleans; Little Rock, Ark.; and Daytona Beach (CRAINSDETROIT.com, 12/20).
