AFL 2009 season saved, for now

The 2009 Arena Football League season has been saved, at least for now.

The AFL sent a statement Wednesday night: "Despite rumors and reports to the contrary, the Arena Football League Board of Directors has not suspended the 2009 season at this time. The Board met via conference call this evening. The Board will continue to meet regularly to examine any and all long-term structural improvement options for the AFL."

Earlier Wednesday, Los Angeles Avengers owner Casey Wasserman told the L.A. Times that the decision to forgo the 2009 AFL season essentially has already been made. Plus, reports from the Rocky Mountain News , Kansas City Star , and ESPN.com had the league suspending operations.

The AFL said Wednesday afternoon: "Despite rumors and reports to the contrary, all AFL teams are continuing to work towards ArenaBowl XXIII. As it has previously stated, the AFL continues to work on long-term structural improvement options. Some of the options may impact the 2009 season. There is currently no timetable for an announcement of any kind. We remain grateful to our fans for their enthusiasm and patience."

On Monday, Grand Rapids Rampage general manager Scott Woodruff told 24 Hour News 8 the team was still working and that it is business as usual for the upcoming season.

The players are doing what they can to keep the season alive. Eight-year veteran and Grand Rapids Rampage kicker Brian Gowins told 24 Hour News 8 the players union has offered to cut the salary cap by 25 percent.