AFL takes over operation of Portland Thunder

The Arena Football League has taken over operation of the Portland Thunder, the league announced Wednesday.

In doing so the league ousted Terry Emmert, who ran the franchise since its founding in 2013.

“After many months of attempting to work out an arrangement for the AFL to provide financial and operational support to current ownership, we were unable to successfully work something out and are thus assuming ownership and operational control of the Thunder,” AFL Commissioner Scott C. Butera said in a statement. “We highly value the Thunder fans and this step was needed to stabilize the team in the Portland market.”

Last season, Portland averaged 8,290 fans per game at the Moda Center, ranking eighth out of 12 teams.

Wednesday’s move is the latest example of turmoil in the Arena Football League, which is down to eight teams from 14 in 2014.

Last season, the league took over clubs in Las Vegas and New Orleans, both of which have ceased operations. Teams in San Jose and Spokane are also no longer in the league.

Three teams that played in 2014 — Pittsburgh, San Antonio and Iowa — dropped out after that season.

Portland is scheduled to begin its third season April 1 at home against Arizona.