"They Played in Peoria" 25th Anniversary Documentary

Produced by Tony M. Johnson Director/Editor - Frank Blain View directly on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/U_IMDqtrUXM?si=CYo60W8AI8HL9WGx On April 2, 1999 the Peoria area experienced it's first professional indoor football game at the Peoria Civic Center. The Peoria Pirates beat the Madison Mad Dogs 36-0 that night igniting a passion for a sport, team, and fan base that ran from 1999 through 2009. On game nights at Carver Arena, everyone was a PIRATE! This documentary captures the moments, experiences, and excitement of the Peoria Pirates as told through the fans, media, players, sponsors, and other community members. The launch of the documentary was planned to coincide with the induction of the 2000 and 2002 championship teams into the Greater Peoria Sports Hall of Fame (March 23, 2024) and the 25th Anniversary of the first game (April 02, 2024). Please follow the Peoria Pirates page on Facebook for ongoing information and to connect with former players, coaches, staff and fans. Go to Facebook and search "The Peoria Pirates". You'll need to request access to the page. NOTE: Click on the "Hall of Fame" tab to see pictures from the 25th Anniversary Reunion and Greater Peoria Sports Hall of Fame induction and the "History" tab to see a listing of the Pirates season-by-season record.

THE SPORT

Indoor Football / Arena Football was played on a hockey rink with a 50 yard turf field, pads on the dasher boards, and a goal post hung from the ceiling. The fast pace provided high scoring, action packed games where fans were right on top of the action. The sport is still played today in many cities.

THE TEAM

The Peoria Pirates dominated the 1999-2004 period playing in four championship games - winning championships in 2000 and 2002 - including a perfect 17-0 season in 2000. They played in the IFL (1999-2000), Af2 (2001-2004, 2008-2009) and UIF (2005-2006). The team ceased operations at the end of the 2009 season. Legendary Head Coach Bruce Cowdrey led the team for 8 of the seasons.

THE FANS

Peoria Pirate fans were some of the best in the sport. The diverse base came from all parts of the community, welcoming the team as they supported local events, charities, and schools. In fact, Peoria Pirate fans sold out Carver Arena on several occassions and were known for the large fan bus contingent that traveled to the Quad Cities when the Pirates played their arch rival - the Quad City Steamwheelers!

Contact Us

If you have any questions, please contact Tony M. Johnson (former Asst. Head Coach Coach and Documentary Director)