Albany Empire Gets Approval To Move Forward with Fans!

Albany, NY – The Albany Empire announced today that their season will kick off May 22nd against Ontario with limited fans. 

“We are thrilled to be welcoming back Arena Football, and The Albany Empire Fans,” said Times Union Center General Manager Bob Belber. “The cooperation of the fans at the NCAA Hockey Event helped show that we as a building, and the Capital Region could go back to live events safely. All Department of Health guidelines will be in place for the Arena Football Season regarding social distancing, vaccines, testing, and patron safety.” 

Season tickets are currently on sale now. All tickets will be sold in 2 or 4 person pods, and all pods will be a minimum of 6ft apart to comply with CDC guidelines. In addition to a ticket, all fans will be required to provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test, no more than 72 hours prior to game day or a Rapid test taken at least 6 hours prior to the game, or proof of vaccination.  

“Today’s announcement is a huge victory for Albany Empire fans, our workforce at the Times Union Center and the businesses in the surrounding area who have struggled to meet their bottom lines throughout the pandemic,” said Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy. “Bringing Arena Football back this year has been a top priority of mine because our residents need an outlet, because we know we can do it safely and intelligently, and because it’s what they deserve after the sacrifices that have been made. Looking forward to the season kicking off May 22.” 

“It has been one of the most exciting thrills of my professional career acquiring the Albany Empire. We would like to thank the County Executive, the Governor and the NYS Department of Health for working with us in order to have a season. We look forward to returning to the Capital Region and continuing the amazing winning tradition that has been laid before us,” said Ron Tridico, Owner, Albany Empire. 

The NAL announced earlier that the 2021 season would be a condensed season. The Empire home schedule consists of 4 games:
May 22 vs Ontario
May 29 vs Carolina
June 12 vs Orlando
July 17 vs New Jersey 

Season tickets are currently the only way to purchase tickets for the 2021 Albany Empire Season.  If capacity is not reached by season ticket holders, individual game tickets will go on sale at a later date. Season ticket information can be found at www.timesunioncenter-albany.com/nal.