ReggieFowler, an Arizona executive, became the first black owner in the NationalFootball League when he agreed to buy the Minnesota Vikings. Coincidentally, itwas on Feb. 14, during Black History Month.
Fowler, 46,realized the historical significance, USA Today reported.
“As JamesBrown said, ‘I’m black and I’m proud,’ but that didn’t play a big part inwanting to buy an NFL team.”
According tothe Miami Herald, Fowler would not state the terms in purchasing the team, butMinnesota Timberwolves owner Glen Taylor put the price at about $625 million.The NFL’s consent on purchase approval is still required.
Fowler saidthat he is confident about the approval of the NFL, gathering that he is readyto go to Minnesota and take charge.
Currentowner Red McCombs bought the team in 1968 for $250 million. He decided to sellthe team because of failure in getting a new stadium built to replace theMetrodome. He said that the Metrodome “is not competitive in terms of revenue.”
After theNFL approves the deal, further action on improving the team’s environment willtake place.
Fowler is aformer University of Wyoming football player. He presently owns Spiral Inc., acorporation that provides grocery stores with labels, containers, cups, bagsand janitorial necessities. The Arizona Republic reported on Feb. 19 thatFowler’s personal net worth is estimated at more than $400 million.
NFL ownersare to meet March 20-23 in Hawaii. League rules require 24 of the 32 owners toapprove a sale, reported the Contra Costa Mesa Times (Calif.).
I feel in aleague where the majority of the players are black, authoritative jobs forblacks are comparatively low. With his ownership, Fowler will make history,conquering a hurdle that many blacks long to leap.