NAAF Votes For Ownership Change in Worcester

NAAF Votes For Ownership Change in Worcester

Shortly following the news about Worcester’s most recent superstar departures, the NAAF quickly got together and had a vote on whether the league should take action on the Worcester Athletics and their owner Chester Paul. With a strong majority, the NAAF decided in favour of a change in ownership. Ryan Jameson determined would officially give Chester Paul till the end of the season to find a suitable new owner to sell the team, but if he does not, the league will take further action to move the team into league control. The owner not only has to be willing to buy the team but also be accepted by the league as well. 

Jameson commented: “We gave him several chances, but it is clear that he does not fit in with what the league wants to do, and with what the players desire as well. Constant mistreatment of our players is the leading factor in this decision and we are ready to make a change so that we can move forward.” 

Many criticized the league for their say in the ownership choice as well, stating that they are being exclusive in this case, and potentially too harsh on just a simple business owner. 

Steven Van Fossen, owner of the New York City Bulls Football Club and vocal member of the Atlantic Coast Football League, was extra loud in his critique, not exactly happy that a league would not allow a man to do business as he chooses. He even targeted Ryan Jameson directly. “It is simply a matter of business; lower costs, increase profits. You think a man that is in charge of a business would understand, but clearly, he has taken too many hits to the head in his lifetime. I don't understand was Wayne Tillman (owner of the Raiders) sees in that league... all I see are the cracks in the walls. Clearly, a former hockey player knows nothing about football, let alone business.” 

Chester Paul had some complaints about the whole process being unfair, and that it simply was not his fault players kept leaving the team. “Look, if they want to skip off to another team, I don’t care. If they want to stay here, they will stay. Look at uhhh….Williams…(?)..he stayed. It's my family’s business and my right to be in charge here. I certainly will fight for this. You can’t get rid of me that easily.” 

Fans from Worcester seemed to be excited by the news, especially after the years of complete chaos surrounding the decisions that were being made. Many hope that a change will allow for the team to stop shooting themselves in the foot and make a chargeback to contending. 

Team Captain Scotty Williams was also asked about the decision, as he was part of the voting process with the league. "Through this whole process, I wanted to do what was best for the city of Worcester. It has become my home and the people have accepted me as one of their own. That is why I think this decision is for the best and Worcester should be excited about what will likely come next for the team."