November 1, 2004

POTTSVILLE, PA — The National Football League isn't welcome in Pottsville, Pennsylvania. Not unless it sends back that championship it stole from the little coal city's beloved Maroons more than 60 years ago.

In the year 1925, the Pottsville Maroons ruled the NFL and beat the Chicago Cardinals for the World Championship.  The team was split shortly after and became today's Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles.

The Maroon's played the Green Bay Packers, New York Giants, and Chicago Cardinals in 1925.

The Carl Spackler Open plans to merge with the official home of the Pottsville Maroons during this year's golf tournament.  The Maroon's Sports Bar in downtown Pottsville has a large private upstairs with room for 70 golfers.  "Although no guarantee is present, a verbal agreement could guarantee 1/2 price on all food and drinks," said Jay Dilks.  "This means $1 for beer, $1.50 for Captain and Coke, $5 for a large pizza, and $11 for filet mignon.  Needless to say, we are very excited."

The Maroon's Sports Bar will also host the Spackler News Network pregame show and casino on Wednesday and Thursday night.

"NFL football history and a Yeungling tour before I hit a golf ball," said Jamie Myers.  "This tournament is truely great and it's only November 1."

The 2005 Carl Spackler Open is scheduled for June 9-11, 2005.  It will be held at Mountain Valley golf course in Barnesville, PA.  Invitations are scheduled for mass mailing on November 15, 2004.