Raptors to Take a Year Furlough; Return by 2011

ROCKFORD- The Rock River Raptors Majority Owner Bob Lowe annouced today that the team will be taking a one year furlough and return by 2011.

Lowe has been trying to work out a new lease agreement with the MetroCentre.  By taking a year off Lowe says it'll give him and MetroCentre management more time to work out a long-term agreement.

Lowe is also looking for a new head of football operations to run the franchise.  The year off will give him more time to hire that person and to put a staff in place.

Lowe is also hoping that the additional time will give the struggling economy time to bounce back.

Lowe stresses that the Raptors are not shutting down for good.   "This is only one year.  We are not shutting down."

The highly successful Raptors' youth league though, which now totals 22 teams, will continue next year as planned.