Professional arena football is returning to Rome. The Rome Red Cats were introduced September 8 at the Forum River Center and plan to begin American Arena League play in April 2027.
The team expects to play four to six home games and a similar number of road games during its first season. Most home dates are expected to fall on Saturdays between April and mid-June, although the final schedule has not been released.
The ownership group includes Kacee Smith, Richard Maslia and head coach and co-owner James Moreland. Smith and Maslia previously worked with the Columbus Lions, while Moreland has extensive arena-football coaching and player-development experience.
Ticket prices remain preliminary, with the organization targeting approximately $10 for general admission and $20 for field-level seating. Season-ticket and sponsorship information is expected later as the club finalizes its roster, schedule and operations.
The Forum River Center will serve as the home venue. Team officials also expect video-board improvements and livestreamed games to expand access beyond the arena.
Featured image: Official Rome Red Cats logo. Credit: Rome Red Cats/WEIS Radio.
