New team in Utah

[Bxl Boy]

Blitzz may jump to A-League
Pro Soccer Change imminent: With new owners, MLS expansion, the time is right, says USL boss
By Peter Richins
The Salt Lake Tribune


The possibility that the Utah Blitzz will jump up one level in the United Soccer Leagues is looking much more likely.
USL commissioner David Askinas, who has been discussing the possibility with Blitzz owners for much of the season, said with the expansion of Major League Soccer to Utah the time is right for a Blitzz move to the A-League.
"We are thrilled about the possibility of the Utah Blitzz moving to the A-League, in part because of the possible synergies it can have for a soccer growing community when an MLS team exists in the market," Askinas said in a news release.
The Blitzz have played in the Pro Soccer League since their first year in 2000. The PSL is the second-highest league in the USL. For almost a month, Blitzz officials have said they will not be in the PSL next year, but the team also was considering a move down to the Premier Development League.
"The motivation to go to the PDL is getting smaller and smaller," Blitzz coach and co-owner Chris Agnello said.
Much of the motivation to move up has come from the team's new ownership structure. John and Robert Garff, and investor Eric Jacobsen, purchased 75 percent of the Blitzz earlier this season, and the Garff family consistently has shown its interest in growing the soccer community.
"We are simply committed to the growth of soccer in Utah," Agnello said.
The USL's deadline for a move to the A-League is August 1, so an official announcement is expected before then. The fee for an A-League franchise is $375,000, but the USL may waive a portion of that fee to facilitate the Blitzz's move to the 18-team league.
John Garff said the Blitzz are thrilled to be sharing the Salt Lake City market with an MLS franchise and it's owner, Dave Checketts.
"Being devoted to both soccer and the people of Utah, we look forward to working with Dave Checketts," Garff said.