Pro lacrosse could make its way back to Vancouver

[Sonny]

The National Lacrosse League announced today that it has granted conditional approval for a franchise in Vancouver, British Columbia to join the league for the 2008 season.

The Vancouver club would begin play in January provided that the franchise meets conditions and expansion criteria set forth by the league, including the sale of 2,500 season tickets and securing a suitable arena lease. The franchise conditions are to be satisfied by July 19th in order for the club to begin play for the 2008 season.

The ownership group of the franchise is led by Bob Whitsitt of Seattle. Whitsitt previously served as President of the National Football League's Seattle Seahawks from 1997-2005, after spending nearly two decades serving in both President and General Managing roles for the Portland Trailblazers and the Seattle Supersonics of the National Basketball Association.

The return of pro lacrosse to Vancouver would increase the league's membership to 15 clubs for the 2008 season. The league previously had a franchise in Vancouver (Ravens) for three seasons (2002-2004). Vancouver would become the fourth Canadian club in the league, joining Toronto, Calgary and Edmonton.

[KnoxVegas]

With Whitsitt involved, this venture will most certainly fail.

Be afraid, Vansterdam! Be very afraid!