It is said "If you build it, they will come." That was reason for the building of the Alamodome, to attract an expansion NFL franchise.
Construction began in November of 1990 and continued on through the NFL Expansion meetings of 1992. So sure was the City of San Antonio that the city would be granted a franchise, that a billboard was rented in Phoenix, AZ and updated daily showing the NFL Expansion Committee the progress of the new stadium. Despite the efforts, the City of San Antonio did not make the cut. Despite this setback, the Alamodome went on completion and opened in May of 1993. It has gone on to host the CFL San Antonio Texans, NBA San Antonio Spurs, the IHL San Antonio Dragons, East-West Shrine Game, U.S. Army All-American Bowl, the very successful Alamo Bowl, several NCAA Final Four events, concerts, shows, conventions and the UTSA Roadrunners football in 2011.
NFL football was limited to a handful of preseason games in 1993, 1994 1995, and 2001. That is until Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans in 2005. The NFL decided that San Antonio's Alamodome would host three of the Saint's home games.
While many saw the actions of then Mayor Phil Hardburger as opportunistic, San Antonians applauded his efforts to lure the team to San Antonio permanently. Despite the city's best efforts, the NFL was not persuaded to keep the Saints in San Antonio. they would only play three home games.
In spite of this setback, the city to to the Saints and the whole of NFL culture. On Oct 2nd, 2005, San Antonio hosted it's first regular season NFL football game - and it was done with style! 65,000 crazed fans packed the dome and the parking lot was one big party.
I decided to go to that game, but the Flagman appearance was sort of an afterthought. I bought a preprinted Aaron Brooks jersey and adjusted the makeup. Below was the result. I bought my ticket and with camera in hand, I went to the tailgate party and had a blast.
Slightly shabby look for the opening game. i wish i had thought about this earlier. I didn't even have time to make a flag!
For the second game against the Atlanta Falcons, I decided to go overboard (as always). I closely emulated the Saints' uniform and added gold shorts, black stockings, and a helmet. Sadly, the game was sold out, but I managed to grab a ticket from a fan who had one too many. So not only did I attend the tailgater, I had a great seat for the game. Despite the questionable call which resulted in the loss the Falcons, the fans in San Antonio had a fantastic time.
With Mayor Phil Hardburger before the game against the Atlanta Falcons. Oct 16th, 2005.
Due to my work schedule, I was not able to attend the last game against the Detroit Lions. It would have been allot of fun!
