VooDoo Unexpectedly Cease Operations.

Just as it seemed that this would be the first time in the AFL's 22-year existence that all 17 teams would return for back-to-back seasons, the New Orleans VooDoo announced late Monday that they are going to cease operations for the 2009 season. 

In a very unexpected move, VooDoo owner Mr. Tom Benson announced his plans to terminate operations of his Arena football team: the New Orleans VooDoo, said Saints Vice President of Communications Greg Bensel. 

"The VooDoo fans have been the best in the AFL. Their passion, enthusiasm and support made it possible for us to bring two consecutive Arena Bowls to benefit New Orleans. It is a sad day for our community and our organization but circumstances prevented us from continuing in the AFL," said Executive Vice President - Owner - Rita Benson LeBlanc.

The move will push the league to 16 teams and will likely force a restructuring of conferences and divisions, yet that process should not delay any of the other current league developments for the 2009 season.

A league spokesperson released this message, "“Tom Benson and Rita Benson LeBlanc have been exemplary AFL operators, leaders and partners. The League is saddened to learn of their sudden decision to terminate their ownership of the VooDoo and regrets that they will no longer be part of the AFL family. VooDoo fans and the New Orleans community will always maintain a special place in the history of the AFL for their support of two sold-out ArenaBowls. The League will examine all possibilities regarding the future of the team. This development will not prevent or delay the AFL from continuing to examine new structure possibilities.”