Bandits Defy USFL Switch to Fall Season

Tampa Bay Bandits owner John Bassett said Tuesday that his United States Football League team will resist the USFL’s planned move from a spring season to a fall schedule in 1986.

In New York, USFL Commissioner Harry Usher issued a statement saying Bassett would be fined an undisclosed amount for violating a directive that “public statements regarding the USFL will originate from the league office.”

Bassett told a news conference that he was acting “singularly” in an effort to reassure his coaching staff, players and fans that they can expect the club to continue playing a March-to-June season.

“I’m tired of the hassle,” the 45-year-old managing general partner said. “We will not play in the fall.”

The Bandits’ owner, who said he’s ready to start a new spring league if necessary, said his decision was triggered by the USFL’s inability to land a network television contract.