In an effort to get teams back on the field in 2010, the AFL and the AFLPA reached an agreement to amend the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

The ammendment will help in restructuring the entire league in hopes of a re-launch next year. There are still some detials to be worked out before play can resume next year, but today’s announcement is a great indication things are moving in the right direction.

“This is a critical step forward for our game, the men who play it, and the fans who love it,” explained AFL Acting Commissioner Ed Policy. “The AFL is working tirelessly to develop a comprehensive plan to ensure that the League not only survives but thrives as a business enterprise.  This revised deal with the players provides a fundamental and vital foundation upon which we can rebuild the economic model of our League and its teams.”

AFLPA Acting Executive Director, Richard Berthelsen added, “AFL players have remained steadfast in their love for their sport and their appreciation of their fans.  The players are doing everything reasonably possible to ensure that the AFL re-launches in 2010 and grows in the years to come.  Players are making economic concessions now in return for a share of expected increases in the League’s value and revenue, because the players believe in the future of the AFL.”

AFLPA President, James Baron said, “AFL players have always addressed any challenge head-on.  We’ve done the same thing here—working with the owners in a spirit of partnership to get through a tough year, but also share in the future success of the AFL.  We’re looking forward to getting back on the field, playing for the best fans in the world.”