Football Returns To Mohawk Valley, The GDFL Welcomes the Utica Nighthawks

Utica, New York-The Gridiron Developmental Football League (GDFL) welcomes the addition of the Utica Nighthawks, The Nighthawks finished their inaugural season in the EFL Championship at (5-5) and #3rd overall in league play. But fell short in the Championship game. "Not bad for a first year team", stated Commissioner, Charles Thompson.     

The Nighthawks will compete in the GDFL Xtreme East Division, which also features teams that include, The Cataract Wolverines of Niagara Falls, New York, The Upstate Predators of Rochester, New York, The Syracuse Strong, Syracuse, New York and East Penn Raiders of Allen Town, Pennsylvania 

Being able to play quality competition so close to Utica and being apart of the # 1 developmental league in the country was a driving force behind owner Ken Maryon wanting to join the (GDFL).We will be playing quality opponents who are within a reasonable footprint of Utica, New York.

"We are excited to be joining a league with high standards, The idea is to come here to play for a  National title and try to go through the structured playoffs system and go all the way to a National Championship, it is tough.

 You’re facing the top teams in the country from other states and regions and there are no subpar teams, there’s just strong teams, so every game is like a final game. This level of competition is not easy.

This is the perfect competition for (our team). Every game is tough, you face strong teams that are organized and have good coaches and are very well organized, so I think this is the best situation competition wise that our players can be in," said Ken Maryon. 

City: Utica, New York
Established: 2019
Stadium: Sal Longo Field
Colors: Green: Black, White and Carolina Blue
Ownership: Ken Maryon

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.