Read the arguments from Loyal Homer and Babe Ruthless about whether or not the recently completed inaugural season of the UFL can be judged as a success.
It is the age old question – how is success defined?
As the United Football League (UFL) recently completed its first season of existence, reports emerged about the league losing $30 million dollars, or an increase of $6M more than league officials originally believed the UFL would lose in its first season. Attendance figures were low, averaging just 13,255 fans per contest.
But, league insiders still believe in the long-term viability and the business model of the UFL. Plans to expand the league beyond its initial four team structure are already underway. Two existing franchises will move to cities where the league believes they will have a chance to flourish without direct competition from the NFL. Several cities are being targeted for expansion franchises including Salt Lake City, Utah, and two locations each in Oregon and Texas. The league will also add more games to the schedule, bringing each team’s game total to 10 in the regular season.
Adding two new franchises will give the league more exposure in other non-NFL cities. The long-term plan for the league remains intact, but were the various accomplishments of the league in its first season enough to justify further investment and expansion?
Several factors must be taken into account when judging the success of the UFL’s first season. Was the league able to attract good talent? Was the league able to sell tickets? Does the league have a good television package and pathway to media notoriety? Are the league’s players and coaches being promoted to NFL jobs?
Considering all of these factors, today’s debate question is: Can the UFL’s inaugural season be considered a success?
For this debate, the best definition of success wins.
Loyal Homer will argue that the league is a success in its first season while Babe Ruthless will argue that the league is not a success in its first season.
Does the UFL have enough to build on, or is it a disaster? Do the league’s lofty expectations of reaching break-even in 2011 make sense? Lucky for you, readers, The Sports Debates answers the call.
