The American Ultimate Disc League announced that their lawsuit filed against Bryan Ricci, the owner of the Connecticut Constitution, and Emerson Kilgore, the owner of Rhode Island Rampage, has been officially settled. This lawsuit came after Ricci and Kilgore first expressed dissatisfaction with recent announcements about league expansion citing territorial conflicts. The lawsuit came soon after, filed over “restrictive covenants territorial license”. AUDL Commissioner Josh Moore, cites the lawsuit stemmed from “different opinions on the definition and enforceability of the restrictive covenants.” The AUDL had in addition fined Ricci $30,000 for missed games and $10,000 to Kilgore for the same.
After some discussion of settlement in July and August, discussions went behind closed doors before a settlement was reached this month.
“In time, the parties found common ground and were able to come to an amicable resolution,” says Moore. Though neither side admit wrongdoings or liability, all parties indicate that they are pleased to resolve the matter. Ricci emphasized that this agreement was for the “good of the sport.” While Kilgore noted relief that the proceedings have completed. “I’m definitely moving on,” said Kilgore. “I don’t wish any ill will.” The details of the agreement will not be released by either party. In a statement released on the Constitution’s website, Ricci announced that the Constitution will retain all rights to their name. Emerson noted an interest in talking with the MLU’s Jeff Snader about further involvement in the sport.
What does this mean for the future of the AUDL? The settlement allows for the AUDL to add teams in any location without restriction, including the contended Boston and New York markets. The AUDL has confirmed that the New York Empire will compete in their 2013 season, but no decision has been made about the Boston market at this time.
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