Lakeland has a new arena football team. The Florida Tarpons have moved from Fort Myers to the RP Funding Center.
- Florida Tarpons members of new American Arena League
- Previously based in Estero, FL
- Former Tampa Bay Storm players now on Tarpons roster
Two other arena teams have tried to make a go of it in Lakeland, but attendance wasn't strong enough. The Florida Tarpons believe they may have an advantage due to the Tampa Bay Storm and Orlando Predators no longer playing games.
Former Storm and Predators fans may still be hungry to watch arena football, and the Tarpons are ready to meet that need.
“We’ve sold several Tampa Bay Storm and Orlando Predators season tickets. It’s definitely been a benefit to us," said coach and team president Michael Taylor.
Taylor said the team hopes to get its fans to eat at downtown Lakeland restaurants. To provide an incentive, players will actually join patrons at the restaurants after home games.
“We invite fans out and that restaurant will typically stay open later," said Taylor.
Taco Bus general manager Kevin Valle hopes the plan pans out.
“Yeah, definitely, I’m open to talks with the Tarpons," Valle said. "Coming together to see what we can to benefit both sides."
Some former Tampa Bay Storm players have signed to play with the Tarpons in 2018, including two-time AFL Receiver of the Year Joe Hills.
For more information, visit www.floridatarpons.com.