Major Arena Soccer League will cancel remainder of the regular season

The Major Arena Soccer League (MASL) has decided to end the 2019-2020 regular season effective immediately. The league’s Board of Directors voted unanimously this afternoon to act in the best interests of the players, staff and fans of the league.

 The decision to end the regular season follows the direction seen in other professional sports across North America, such as the NHL, NBA, AHL, and others along with directives and restrictions from local governments in MASL communities.

 “It’s a disappointing end to an exciting regular season, but the health and safety of our players, fans and staff is paramount,” said MASL Commissioner Joshua Schaub. “It was a significant sacrifice for our owners to forego the remaining regular season games, but it was the appropriate decision considering the gravity of the situation.”

 The MASL will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on the league and the status of league events at a later date.

For the first time in four-seasons the Tropics have qualified for the post season. Florida  had a magic number of one to clinch first place in the Major Arena Soccer League's Eastern Conference. Florida had three regular season games remaining on the schedule, and the playoffs, set to begin the weekend of March 27-29.

“This has been a great year, to be the regular season Eastern Conference champions with an 18-3 record is in itself a tremendous accomplishment.  To go from a last-place team last season to first-place is something we are all very proud of.  Regardless of what happens, no one will be able take away our Eastern Conference championship,” said Chief Operating Officer Chris Economides said.

“Of course, the cancellation couldn't be more disappointing for our team and our fans, but it is the right thing to do given the current public health concerns in our country,” Economides added. “We and the league will reassess the potential for a playoffs in the coming weeks.” 

Florida was slated to host Kansas City this Sunday, play in Orlando on Thursday, March 19 and be home to finish the regular season on Sunday, March 22 against a California based team, the Cal Turlock Express.

Information on options for fans holding tickets to the remaining two home games will be released shortly, Economides added.