Home of the Virginia Redbirds

JACKSONVILLE-- On the strength of multi-million dollar renovations and the introduction of an innovative marketing campaign to build a loyal and vibrant fan base, southwest Virginia has been awarded a National Gridiron League expansion team, President Joe McClendon announced on Monday. The team which is the first NGL expansion franchise to be announced will begin NGL play in the 2019 season.

The new NGL expansion team, which will be named the Virginia Redbirds, will play its games at the area's premier sports and entertainment venue, a 10,600-seat facility that will be converted to an 8,600-seat venue for indoor football.

NGL officials are working with the venue and city officials to schedule a press conference in the city, one where the league is expected to formally introduce the franchise.

Facts about the NGL 1st franchise location: