Only three regular-season games remain in the Augusta Colts' inaugural season after tonight's contest at James Brown Arena. Owner and general manager John Sisson said when the season ends, the Colts' existence won't.
"We have every intention of returning next year," Sisson said Thursday. "It's definitely looking good for the city of Augusta and the future of the Colts."
The Colts, part of the American Indoor Football Association's South Division, will face the division-leading Mississippi Mudcats at 7:30. The Colts (6-4) still have a shot at a playoff spot.
It was only a few months ago that the Colts, who were known as the Augusta Spartans last fall, appeared headed for a similar fate when a possible ownership group backed out last winter.
Sisson took over to fund the first year of play. He said he'll be at least a partial owner next season and will most likely welcome other investors on board.
"We are negotiating with several right now," he said. "Nothing's a done deal yet, but it looks like we'll have at least one partner next year and possibly two or three. ... We've also got some sponsors who are already committed to next year."
Sisson said his team must overcome one hurdle -- where to play -- before he can officially announce its return for 2009.
"I don't think economics is going to be the problem. The question is the logistics with the arena," he said. "If we can come to an agreement with the (Augusta-Richmond County) Coliseum Authority, then we'll be back. We're a home-grown team, and we want to keep it that way."
The Colts and the Coliseum Authority have a one-year agreement in place that will expire at the end of the season. Formal talks have not yet begun, but Coliseum Authority chairman Keith Brown said the Arena Football/Hockey Committee is ready and willing to talk.
"We are always interested in talking with organizations like the Colts. It is something that's of interest to the community," Brown said.
"It seems to be a good family environment, and any time you can bring out the whole family to one event, I think it's good for the community."
Reach Billy Byler at (706) 823-3216 or billy.byler@augustachronicle.com.
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