The beleaguered Salt Lake Sting soccer team officially has been disbanded by the American Professional Soccer League, which says the franchise was unable to meet performance standards.
APSL co-chairperson Bill Sage said Friday that ongoing financial problems, which cost the league some $42,000, were behind the decision to terminate the club.Sage confirmed that the team had been terminated on Wednesday, but the league's official statement was made Friday.
The Sting was approved for membership in the Western Soccer League of the APSL in September 1989. Since then, the team has suffered financial and organization problems and an apathetic following.
The team was taken over by a non-profit foundation last winter, which disbanded when it ran out of money. The team has been supported by the league since then while a buyer was sought.
"There had been special interest expressed by one particular potential ownership group, but following several weeks of discussions that group was unable to come forward with a financial commmitment that would sufficiently meety the requirements of the league," Sage said.
"The APSL, which in May was approved for membership in the U.S. Soccer Federation's professional division, fully intends to meet the higher standards that will be a part of its new status next year," he said.
"We have taken this action now to ensure that all APSL clubs are ready and able to comply," he added.
A news release said Sting players were free agents "effective immediately," and the team's remaining 10 games have been forfeited.