Submitted by Fox First at Ten on September 12th
The Arena Football League will not return to "Ironman Football" next season, meaning teams can substitute freely instead of requiring players to play both sides of the ball.
The decision was made Wednesday morning during meetings with team owners in Phoenix. An AFL news release said the decision was based on fan influence, as well as player and coach input.
Players will still be allowed to play multiple positions.
Spokane Shock head coach Brady Nelson said back in July that he thought Ironman rules could work to Spokane's favor. He also said "it would be fun for the fans to see that."
Also decided at the meetings in Phoenix: a change in officiating and dates for free agency.
The AFL will return to five-man officiating crews, using a referee, umpire, line judge, side judge and back judge. The AFL's exclusive period begins Oct. 15, at which time players will be able to sign contracts with their 2012 teams. Anyone not signed on Oct. 29 will be unrestricted free agents and can sign with any team. Nelson has said he hopes to have about 75 percent of last year's team back for another season in Spokane.
