8X Champion Joplin Crusaders Commit to GDFL

Joplin,MO - The Joplin Crusaders are pleased to be joining the Gridiron Developmental Football (GDFL) League and will begin play in 2019.

For over 18 years the Joplin Crusaders have existed and strove for football excellence in the Central States Football Leagues (CFL). As one of longest running AA minor-professional football teams, the Crusaders have proudly carried the banner for Missouri Football excellence and have represented the city of Joplin, Missouri and its surrounding communities with distinction, pride and respect for the past 18 years.

“We are excited to be joining the Gridiron Development Football League (GDFL) a league,that offers the best brand recognition and support system to grow our team moving forward.,” stated Sturgis. “Our fans & players deserve to see competition at its highest level”.

The The Joplin Crusaders was founded in 1999 and will be entering their 20th season in 2019 as an organization.Entering their 19th season they have seen multiple changes as they have progressed tremendously each season. Posting an 205-22 all-time record, with 11 – Division Championship Titles, 8x- CFL Champions and 2x National Champions. They also have earned the opportunity to played in multiple Bowl Games. 

“We are excited to add another high-caliber team as the Joplin Crusaders to the league”, stated Charles Thompson (GDFL) President/Founder. The Joplin Crusaders become the 26th League Champion to become a member of the greatest pro developmental football league in the country.  “We know entering their 20th season that they will put a top notch organization on the field while also being a model team to emulate off the field. They bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the GDFL”.

City:Joplin, Missouri
Established: 1999
Stadium: MSSU Fred G. Hughes Stadium
Field Location: 3950 Newman Road Joplin, MO 64801
Colors: Green: Red,Silver,White and Black
Ownership: Sam Sturgis

• 2-time National Champions 2008, 2014
• 3-time National Runner-UP 2007, 2013, 2015
• 8-time CFL Champions: 2003, 2004, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2013, 2014, 2015
• 3-Time CFL Runner-Up 2005, 2006, 2012
• 11 – Division Championship Titles: 2003, 2004, 2005,
  2006,2007, 2008, 2009, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015
• OVERALL TEAM RECORD 205 Wins and 22 Loses in the last 18 years

ABOUT THE GDFL

The Gridiron Developmental Football League is a Professional Developmental Football League based in Memphis, Tennessee. This League was established to provide the community with high quality sports entertainment and to provide athletes the opportunity to participate in professional sports. We are looking at partnering with national and local area businesses in our pursuit of excellence and commitment to our community. Our commitment, dedication, and vision are set on building a firm foundation for professionalism and quality. The Gridiron Developmental Football League continues to strive to provide a quality minor professional level of football throughout the United States and beyond giving area athletes and fans the opportunity be a part of history. Our organization would like to thank you for your support. We are excited about the upcoming season and look forward to “Making AN IMPACT” in our Community.

Fans can visit our website at www.gdfl.org for upcoming announcements, ticketing info, and player tryouts.