WLAF Grants Franchise the Birmingham...

On April 18, 1990, Birmingham, Alabama, was granted a charter franchise in the newly formed World League of American Football (WLAF), christened the Birmingham Fire. This marked a significant moment, bringing springtime professional football to a city with a history of supporting alternative leagues. The Fire became one of the ten inaugural teams, signaling the NFL's ambition to cultivate a developmental league with international appeal.

The Birmingham Fire quickly established itself as a competitive team within the WLAF. Under the leadership of head coach Chan Gailey, the Fire reached the playoffs in both of its seasons, 1991 and 1992. Playing their home games at Legion Field, the team garnered a dedicated local fanbase, with initial enthusiasm drawing impressive crowds. While the WLAF ultimately folded in September 1992, the Birmingham Fire left a memorable mark on the city's sporting landscape and provided a platform for players and coaches who would later make their mark in the NFL.