winklogo200.png

World League of American Football Approved

July 19, 1989 - NFL owners vote unanimously to start the World League of American Football in European...

Orville Mulligan: Sports Writer
We invite you to take a ride through 1920's sports history in the audio drama that takes the listener through the sounds and legendary events of the era through the eyes of a young newspaper journalist. You will feel like you were there! Brought to you by Number 80 Productions and Pigskin Dispatch

Sports Jersey Dispatch
If you like remembering players of the NFL by their numbers then you may also enjoy going uniform number by number in othre team sports as well. We have it for you on our other website in baseball, basketball, hockey and more on the Sports Jersey Dispatch.
EVENTDAY | July 19

"World League of American Football Approved"

Last updated 📅 2025-07-19

July 19, 1989 - NFL owners vote unanimously to start the World League of American Football in European cities.

The World League of American Football (WLAF) was the NFL's spring league, launched in 1991 to develop talent and expand football's global reach. It featured teams in North America and Europe, aiming to provide a platform for promising players and coaches. Despite initial enthusiasm, the league suspended operations after just two seasons (1991-1992) due to disappointing U.S. television ratings, though it was popular in Europe. The WLAF later relaunched in 1995 as a Europe-only league, eventually becoming NFL Europe, and played until 2007.

✦ Teams that played in the WLAF (1991-1992):

North American West: Sacramento Surge, San Antonio Riders, Birmingham Fire, Orlando Thunder

North American East: New York/New Jersey Knights, Montreal Machine, Raleigh-Durham Skyhawks, Ohio Glory (1992 only)

European Division: London Monarchs, Barcelona Dragons, Frankfurt Galaxy

The League was later renamed NFL Europe. The newly formed league operated from 1991 through 2007 and developed many players who went on to play in the NFL.

  • HASHTAGS: #July19 #WorldLeagueofAmericanFootball
  • EVENTDAY: July 19
  • FOOTBALL LEAGUE: World League of American Football
EventDay

" Unearthing Gridiron Gems from Mid-Summer History"

As the dog days of summer arrive, July 19th might seem like a quiet spot on the football calendar, yet it holds a surprising array of significant moments in American gridiron history. From crucial league decisions that shaped professional football's landscape to the birthdays of unsung heroes and the ongoing development of the game's rules and equipment, this mid-summer date offers a rich tapestry of stories.
On this Gridiron day, July 19, we reveal stories, Rule Changes, League Formations, and Hall of Fame Birthdays. This series of posts will delve into the hidden gems of July 19th. We'll explore the often-overlooked events that influenced team formations and player careers, recall milestones in football innovation, and celebrate the anniversaries of remarkable individuals who contributed to the sport's enduring legacy. Join us as we uncover the fascinating narratives that make this specific date a noteworthy chapter in football's expansive history. As the dog days of summer arrive, July 19th might seem like a quiet spot on the football calendar, yet it holds a surprising array of significant moments in American gridiron history. From crucial league decisions that shaped professional football's landscape to the birthdays of unsung heroes and the ongoing development of the game's rules and equipment, this mid-summer date offers a rich tapestry of stories...

Proud to Support The Professional Football Researchers Association
To learn more about joining the go to The Official PFRA Website. _________________________

Orville Mulligan: Sports Writer
We invite you to take a ride through 1920's sports history in the audio drama that takes the listener through the sounds and legendary events of the era through the eyes of a young newspaper journalist. You will feel like you were there! Brought to you by Number 80 Productions and Pigskin Dispatch _________________________

Sports Jersey Dispatch
If you like remembering players of the NFL by their numbers then you may also enjoy going uniform number by number in othre team sports as well. We have it for you on our other website in baseball, basketball, hockey and more on the Sports Jersey Dispatch. _________________________

Gridiron Intelligence
Power Up Your Football IQ with Easy-to-understand football stats and analytics. _________________________