Albany Herald, Albany Panthers sign agreement

ALBANY — The Albany Herald has now become the official newspaper of the city’s new indoor football team.

Herald Publisher Mike Gebhart and Albany Panthers General Manager Will Carter signed a partnership trade agreement Friday.

The agreement essentially serves as a sponsorship deal between the two entities.

“This is a huge deal for the Albany Panthers,” Carter said. “We feel this partnership will be great for our organization. The Albany Herald has always been a big supporter of indoor football. (The agreement) will bring value to us and the community.”

The team’s first game is scheduled for April 3 against the Columbus Lions. At the game, The Herald will be performing on-field promotions. Fans will also see two dasher boards displaying the publication’s name.

“We’re excited to be a major sponsor of The Panthers,” said Gebhart. “Arena football is an important aspect of the greater Albany community and it’s only fitting that The Albany Herald plays a role in their inaugural season.”

There are currently 10 players signed for the Panthers with more soon to come, Carter said.

The Panthers were unveiled as the area’s new arena football team late last year after the owner of the former team, the South Georgia Wildcats, left Albany in a lurch after backing out of a deal agreed upon by city officials when the AF2 league filed for bankruptcy protection.