Columbus, GA  (Monday June 22, 2009) 

It is with great regret that I must announce the suspension of the Georgia Tigers football program. Due to the lack of support from the City of Columbus, Georgia, we will indefinitely suspend the Georgia Tigers football program while actively looking to move into another city.

The Georgia Tigers submitted a formal written Stadium use Request to the City of Columbus on February 24th 2009. It was stated at this time that there should be no issue with the proposed dates and schedule. We moved forward based on this information provided by the City of Columbus to bring the nationwide LaBelle Community Football League into Columbus. On June 10th 2009 we received word that the City would be unable to host 3 of the proposed home games including the first two; which were only weeks away, and that we would need to make other arrangements for use of a stadium. With no other viable options to host the program on such incredibly short notice we must regrettably suspend operations for the 2009 season. We have worked in good faith with Tony Adams of the Columbus Georgia Parks and Recreation, along with Lisa Goodwin of the City Manager’s office; however after our final meeting it has become apparent that the city is unwilling to support our organization and its goals inside of the Columbus Community.

I am proud of the young men and women that have made positive contributions as part of the Georgia Tigers. I ask that you do not let this setback stop you from continuing your community involvement. I would like to thank Ms. Patti LaBelle and all the inspirational people we have met associated with the LCFL. We commend you on your mission, and will continue to support you in your goals in anyway that we are able.