ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Wednesday, January 3, 1996 TAG: 9601030064
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: B-1 EDITION: METRO
DATELINE: NORFOLK
SOURCE: Associated Press
Gov. George Allen has hinted the state might use economic development funds to assist the Canadian Football League team that plans to move from Shreveport, La.
``I think it would be beneficial to have a CFL team here in Hampton Roads,'' Allen said during a weekend visit to an East Coast Hockey League game. ``I would hope they would have support here.''
The CFL Pirates, coached by Forrest Gregg, are relocating from Shreveport to Norfolk. The team may play its next season at Old Dominion University's Foreman Field, although details haven't been worked out.
Allen said he had spoken with Gregg about the move.
``I know Forrest Gregg and have a great deal of respect for him,'' the governor said. ``As far as what the state might do in any of this, I'm not at liberty to say.''
But Allen said economic development is one of his top priorities.
``We would have to look at what the investment will cost and what are the jobs that will be returned on the investment and whether the investment will be secure,'' he said.
In addition to the Pirates, the CFL's Baltimore Stallions are considering a move to Richmond if the NFL's Cleveland Browns complete their planned move to Baltimore.
The state has used financial incentives to lure other new businesses, including a Gateway 2000 computer facility in Hampton and an MCI sales and service center in Newport News.
Allen said the CFL's presence can enhance the state's visibility elsewhere, especially among Canadians who flock to Virginia during the summer tourist season.
``Whenever I get a chance, I like to ride my bike,'' Allen said of his own summer visits to Camp Pendleton in Virginia Beach. ``There are two campgrounds right down General Booth Boulevard from Camp Pendleton, and I always like to go through them to see where everyone is from. The majority seem to be Canadians.''
Allen, who played football at the University of Virginia, learned about the CFL when his father worked briefly for the Montreal Alouettes. The late George Allen Sr. is best known for coaching the NFL's Washington Redskins.
LENGTH: Short : 49 linesby CNB