A CONVERSATION WITH AFL COMMISSIONER DAVID BAKER

1. What's the latest with expansion?

We are working heavily with Bud Adams and Dan Snyder to bring teams to Nashville and Washington D.C., respectively, as early as next season. We’re making good progress and are hopeful that they will both field teams. We’re also working with interested parties in Boston and St. Louis.

But ArenaBowl is always my favorite time of year because that’s when unexpected expansion candidates always seem to emerge, like Greg Feste and Austin a year ago.

There’s no shortage of expansion interest, which is unique in the current sports climate.

2. Are you concerned about Grand Rapids' ability to support a team, and is there a chance of the club moving after the season?

Grand Rapids has always been one of the best supported teams in the league until this year, and that probably has a lot to do with their performance on the field. The management group there is strong and I anticipate them rebounding soon.

3. What do you think of the NBC numbers so far this season and do you think the contract will be renewed?

The one thing we always stress, whether its attendance, expansion or ratings, is growth. This year, our ratings are up compared to a year ago – as is attendance, merchandise sales and Internet traffic -- and that is very encouraging. More and more people are continuing to experience the AFL.

Regarding renewal, NBC has made it very clear that they need to see the ratings grow. So far, they are. But the ultimate decision is in their hands and we’re only half-way through the season. We’ll just have to wait and see.