ATLANTA – The National Arena League (NAL) has unveiled its official schedule for the 2022 season, marking an exciting chapter in the league’s history. This year’s competition will feature six teams battling it out over 14 weeks of regular-season play, culminating in a thrilling postseason. Notable highlights include the introduction of Ironman football and the debut of the San Antonio Gunslingers, a new expansion team.
The 2022 season promises to be a pivotal year for the league as it celebrates its fifth anniversary. Fans can expect electrifying action with the return of iconic franchises such as the Albany Empire, Carolina Cobras, Columbus Lions, Jacksonville Sharks, and Orlando Predators. This lineup will be bolstered by the Gunslingers’ entry, adding a fresh layer of excitement to the competition.
One of the biggest changes this year is the implementation of Ironman football, a nod to the roots of arena football. Under the new rules, most players will assume dual roles, playing on both offense and defense during each game. This approach aims to enhance the intensity and pace of the game while testing players’ versatility and endurance.
NAL Commissioner Shares His Vision
NAL Commissioner Chris Siegfried expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming season, saying, “We are thrilled to kick off our fifth season and bring back Ironman football. It’s a throwback to the original style of arena football, and we believe our fans will love the energy and strategy it brings to the game. Adding the San Antonio Gunslingers to our roster of teams is another major milestone. San Antonio is a fantastic sports city, and we’re excited to see how they perform in their debut season.”
Siegfried also noted that the return of two-way players has already sparked interest among fans and former players alike. “Since the announcement, I’ve received countless messages from arena football legends who are eager to see Ironman rules in action once again,” he said. “This season has the potential to be our best yet.”
The 2022 Season Structure
The NAL’s regular season will span 14 weeks, beginning on April 23 and concluding in late July. The postseason will feature a four-team playoff format, with the top two seeds earning home-field advantage. The winners of the playoff games will advance to the championship, which will be hosted by the highest-seeded finalist.
For fans eager to mark their calendars, here is the full 2022 NAL schedule presented in an easy-to-read table format:
| Week | Date | Matchup |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sat. April 23 | Jacksonville @ Albany |
| Sat. April 23 | Carolina @ Columbus | |
| Sat. April 23 | Orlando @ San Antonio | |
| 2 | Sat. April 30 | Orlando @ Carolina |
| Sat. April 30 | Columbus @ Jacksonville | |
| BYE | San Antonio, Albany | |
| 3 | Sat. May 7 | Jacksonville @ Carolina |
| Sat. May 7 | Albany @ Orlando | |
| Mon. May 9 | Columbus @ San Antonio | |
| 4 | Sat. May 14 | Albany @ Jacksonville |
| Sun. May 15 | Columbus @ Orlando | |
| Sun. May 15 | San Antonio @ Carolina | |
| 5 | Sat. May 21 | Carolina @ Albany |
| Sun. May 22 | Jacksonville @ San Antonio | |
| BYE | Columbus, Orlando | |
| 6 | Sat. May 28 | San Antonio @ Columbus |
| Sat. May 28 | Albany @ Orlando | |
| Sat. May 28 | Jacksonville @ Carolina | |
| 7 | Fri. June 3 | San Antonio @ Jacksonville |
| Fri. June 3 | Carolina @ Orlando | |
| Sun. June 5 | Columbus @ Albany | |
| 8 | Fri. June 10 | Orlando @ Columbus |
| Sat. June 11 | Albany @ San Antonio | |
| Sat. June 11 | Carolina @ Jacksonville | |
| 9 | Fri. June 17 | Jacksonville @ Columbus |
| Fri. June 17 | San Antonio @ Orlando | |
| Sat. June 18 | Albany @ Carolina | |
| 10 | Fri. June 24 | Columbus @ Jacksonville |
| Sat. June 25 | Carolina @ San Antonio | |
| Sun. June 26 | Orlando @ Albany | |
| 11 | Fri. July 1 | Jacksonville @ Orlando |
| Sat. July 2 | Columbus @ Carolina | |
| BYE | Albany, San Antonio | |
| 12 | Fri. July 8 | Albany @ Columbus |
| Sat. July 9 | Orlando @ San Antonio | |
| Sat. July 9 | Carolina @ Jacksonville | |
| 13 | Sat. July 16 | San Antonio @ Carolina |
| Sat. July 16 | Jacksonville @ Albany | |
| BYE | Orlando, Columbus | |
| 14 | Sat. July 23 | Carolina @ Columbus |
| Sat. July 23 | Orlando @ Jacksonville | |
| Sat. July 23 | San Antonio @ Albany |
Building Momentum for the Future
The addition of Ironman football and the San Antonio Gunslingers signals the NAL’s commitment to evolving and enhancing the fan experience. By embracing the league’s heritage and introducing new franchises, the NAL aims to create a competitive and entertaining environment for players and fans alike.
Looking beyond 2022, the league has expressed ambitions to expand further and reach more cities across the United States. The ultimate goal is to make arena football a household name, drawing larger audiences and inspiring the next generation of players.
A Season Like No Other
As anticipation builds, the 2022 season is shaping up to be a milestone year for the NAL. Fans can expect intense rivalries, unforgettable moments, and a celebration of the unique style of football that only the NAL can deliver. With the league’s renewed focus on innovation and tradition, the stage is set for an unforgettable season. For more information, contact [email protected].