The National Arena League (NAL) continues to make headlines this offseason as anticipation builds for its highly anticipated 2022 season, set to kick off this spring. Last month, the league made waves by announcing its adoption of Iron Man football—a throwback to the game’s original format, where the majority of active players take on roles in both offensive and defensive positions. This return to the sport’s roots promises to add a new level of excitement and intensity to the game. Adding to the buzz, the league recently opened its free agency period, which has already seen significant player signings as NAL stars select their teams for the upcoming season.
Today, the National Arena League unveils even more groundbreaking news with the introduction of its latest expansion franchise: the San Antonio Gunslingers. The Gunslingers are set to compete in the 2022 season and bring a new level of excitement to fans in San Antonio, Texas. In the coming weeks, the franchise plans to announce additional updates, including the unveiling of its official logo, staff appointments, and player signings. The Gunslingers will host their home games at the iconic Freeman Coliseum, located just outside downtown San Antonio. The venue boasts a seating capacity of over 9,000 for sporting events and has previously hosted concerts, professional bull riding, rodeos, wrestling, and boxing events. It has also been home to professional hockey and basketball teams.
San Antonio Joins the NAL’s Ranks
Hector Garcia, the owner of the San Antonio Gunslingers, expressed his excitement about joining the NAL. “On behalf of the San Antonio Gunslingers Ownership, we are honored to bring top-tier arena league experiences to our loyal and energetic fans,” Garcia said. “The opportunity to bring the NAL to San Antonio will give our fans great talent to watch with their families. We chose the NAL because it closely resembles the original AFL and boasts some of the most storied franchises in arena football. The NAL was the best decision our organization could have made, and we are excited to field a competitive team in 2022.”
San Antonio is no stranger to success as a sports city. With a history of hosting major sports teams and events, the city is well-positioned to embrace its newest franchise. Although San Antonio has seen arena football teams in the past, this marks the first time the city will host an NAL team. With over 1.5 million residents, San Antonio becomes the highest-populated city in the league and the second-largest geographically, covering over 505 square miles. This expansion further solidifies the NAL’s commitment to bringing arena football to passionate sports communities across the country.
A Bright Future for the Gunslingers
The addition of the San Antonio Gunslingers as the newest NAL franchise reflects the league’s continued growth and commitment to innovation. Commissioner Chris Siegfried shared his enthusiasm for the team’s debut. “We are excited to announce San Antonio as the newest members of the National Arena League,” Siegfried stated. “Hector and his group have worked very hard to make this happen, and we look forward to seeing their team compete in the NAL in 2022 and beyond.”
The Freeman Coliseum, which will serve as the Gunslingers’ home base, offers a prime location for fans in South Texas. With its rich history of hosting a diverse range of events, the venue is expected to provide an electrifying atmosphere for arena football games. Fans can look forward to thrilling matchups and high-energy performances from both the home team and visiting competitors.
Looking Ahead to a Historic Season
As the 2022 season approaches, excitement continues to build around the NAL. The introduction of Iron Man football, combined with the league’s growing roster of teams, is poised to deliver one of the most exciting seasons in its history. Free agency signings have already brought significant talent into the league, and teams are preparing for intense competition on the field. The Gunslingers’ entry into the NAL marks a significant milestone for both the league and the city of San Antonio, highlighting the continued expansion and popularity of arena football.
In addition to the action on the field, the NAL is also committed to fostering a strong sense of community among its fans. The league’s teams are actively engaged in outreach programs and events designed to connect with their local communities. As the Gunslingers establish their presence in San Antonio, they are expected to play a pivotal role in supporting local initiatives and giving back to the city that proudly hosts them.
What’s Next for the Gunslingers and the NAL?
Over the coming weeks, fans can expect even more exciting updates from the San Antonio Gunslingers. From the announcement of their inaugural roster to the unveiling of their official branding, the team is preparing to make a significant impact in its debut season. The league, too, has hinted at additional announcements that will further enhance the fan experience and solidify the NAL’s position as a leader in arena football.
For fans eager to stay updated on the latest developments, the National Arena League encourages following the league online and visiting the official website of the San Antonio Gunslingers at www.sanantoniogunslingers.com. With so much excitement surrounding the 2022 season, there has never been a better time to be a fan of the NAL.
The Role of San Antonio in the NAL’s Future
San Antonio’s inclusion in the National Arena League not only expands the league’s geographic footprint but also elevates its profile as a premier destination for high-caliber arena football. The city’s rich sports culture and passionate fan base are expected to provide the perfect environment for the Gunslingers to thrive. Moreover, the team’s presence is likely to inspire a new generation of football enthusiasts, further growing the sport at the grassroots level.
As the Gunslingers prepare for their inaugural season, they are set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the NAL. Their commitment to excellence both on and off the field underscores the league’s mission to deliver unparalleled entertainment while fostering strong community ties. For the fans of San Antonio, the arrival of the Gunslingers represents more than just a new team—it’s the beginning of a new era in arena football.