Why did the NFL move the 2019 Pro Bowl to Hawaii?
Peter O’Reilly, the NFL’s senior vice president of events, spoke with Hawaii’s KHON about the decision. “Our decision to move the Pro Bowl to a different location was not related to funding, Aloha Stadium or Hawaii’s ability to host the game.
How will the NFL Pro Bowl be decided?
Aside from the location, the biggest change to the Pro Bowl is a return to the AFC vs. NFC format. For the past three years, the league has employed a draft to select teams from the pool of 88 players from both conferences. The players selected to participate in the Pro Bowl will continue to be determined by votes from fans, players and coaches.
How many times has the Pro Bowl been played in Orlando?
It was played there in 31 of the last 32 seasons. Miami (2009) and Los Angeles (1971) were the only other places to host the Pro Bowl prior to Orlando.
Why did the NFL move to Orlando?
A big part of the move to Orlando was the league’s connection to ESPN. The sports network typically carries the Pro Bowl and is owned by Disney. The league alluded to this relationship in the press release announcing the move. “Collaborating with Disney and ESPN brings us closer to the best in youth and family-focused entertainment.
When did they stop having the Pro Bowl in Hawaii?
2016Between 1980 and 2016, the game was played at Aloha Stadium in Hawaii, except for two years (2010 and 2015) where the game was held at the same venue as that season's Super Bowl.
Why is Aloha Stadium closing?
Aloha Stadium has been closed since December, thanks to COVID-19, and is now scheduled to be demolished next year.
What's wrong with Aloha Stadium?
A December 17, 2020, announcement by the Aloha Stadium Authority stated that the stadium would be ceasing fan-attended operations indefinitely. The closure was related to financial issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The stadium, built in 1975, was also plagued by maintenance issues in recent years.
Why can't Hawaii play at Aloha Stadium?
Hawaii needs to spend millions of dollars to have a suitable home stadium in 2021. Aloha Stadium, Hawaii's longtime home stadium, has been barred from having fans due to structural issues.