Rumors Fly Concerning Tiger Sharks Future December, 1997

Talk of relocation or possible sale of the franchise becomes hot topic

The speculation began several weeks ago when a local media source reported that the team would possibly be moving to Savannah, Georgia.

However, Tiger Sharks General Manager Joe Sloboda stated emphatically in a recent interview that the team would not be relocating and that the reports contrary to such were completely false.

"The rumors that are out about the team moving to Savannah are completely unfounded," said Sloboda. "It's never been an option and never will be an option to move to a smaller market with a smaller building. We have a commitment to not only to this community of Tallahassee but we have a commitment to the Civic Center, we have a commitment to the people within the organization to keep it here in Tallahassee."

In addition to the relocation rumors, talk of a possible sale of the franchise by the Elmore Sports Group has also surfaced over the last several weeks. While the word from the owners David Elmore and Donna Tuttle are that the team is not for sale, a local ownership group represented by Scott Hunt is currently finalizing plans to bid on the team.

Hunt, a spokesman for the Tallahassee Police Department, is not a member of the ownership group, but has been asked to represent the potential ownership group's interests in the matter.

Sloboda, however emphasized that indications from team owners are that the franchise is not for sale. "I spoke with Dave Elmore today, before he left for Australia and I also spoke with Donna Tuttle today and both of them, when I addressed it with them, assured me 110% that this organization is not for sale, the organization is not moving, it's not even being considered to move... The answer to the question about is this team going to be sold to a local group or any other group for that matter, the answer is No!, it's not an option."

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