Steelhawks also announced they were leaving the AIF. In response, AIF owner Jim Morris announced on July 18, 2016, that the AIF was ceasing operations immediately. He also announced his support of the new Arena Developmental League (which later changed its name to National Arena League before its inaugural season) and hoped the new league would take on many of the former AIF teams. The Buffalo Blitz (formerly the Buffalo Lightning) used the official AIF football in their press announcement upon joining the Can-Am Indoor Football League, which was created by announced AIF 2017 expansion team Vermont Bucks. The Can-Am also used the AIF footballs in games during their only season. Basic rule differences AIF did not use rebound nets found in the Arena Football League. One linebacker could move flat to flat but was required to stay in drop zone. Platooning and free substitution were allowed, meaning players did not have to play both offense and defense. Franchises were required to have at least nine players that originated from within a 120-mile radius of the team's home town. The AIF ball pattern was similar to that of the basketball in the American Basketball Association, with red, white, and blue panels as opposed to the brown colored football of most leagues. This pattern originated in the AIFL and is also used in the UIFL. Two rule changes appeared to be inspired by Canadian football rules: Two offensive players could be in motion at one time. The AFL allows only one in motion. The AIF recognized the single (also known as an uno or rouge). If a kickoff goes through the uprights, or if the receiving team does not advance the ball out of the end zone on a kickoff, the kicking team is awarded one point and the ball is spotted at the opponent's five yard line. Teams Teams when league folded Italics indicate travel only team (including the Maryland Eagles who also have home games with another league) Map of teams Former teams Defunct franchises Abilene Warriors – Announced for 2016 but never played. AIFL Ghostchasers Arctic Predators (Wasilla, Alaska). Arizona Adrenaline Arizona Outlaws Atlanta Sharks – At one point, listed on the 2016 schedule of the Indoor Football Alliance. Atlanta Vultures – Folded during the 2016 season. Augusta Colts – Originally played as the Augusta Spartans. Austin Colts – Added midseason in 2016 but folded prior to playing