Rubber Bowl sold for $38,000, marketing group wants to bring USFL team to Akron

AKRON, Ohio - The University of Akron has agreed to sell the Rubber Bowl to Team1 Marketing out of Canton for $38,000, and the group plans to bring a United States Football League team to Akron.

The Rubber Bowl has been a part of Akron history since it was built in 1939, and it's been five years since the University of Akron Zips played at their old stadium.

Now it sits empty, but has a new owner that plans to bring football back to the old landmark.

Cathy Scott has run the L & C Barber Shop across the street for the last six years. She grew up going to the Rubber Bowl and looks forward to new life returning to the stadium.

"We've watched the Rubber Bowl just sit and it's just crumbling and it's a landmark.  I saw the Rolling Stones there when I was younger and a lot of memories are over there and it is just wonderful," Scott said.

"I think it is a good idea and it will be nice to a professional football team in town. Although we'll see how that goes," said Mike Farmer.

University of Akron President Dr. Luis Proenza said he thinks the deal is a win-win for everyone involved.

"To have a mid-level team in Akron will add to the vibrancy of the game and clearly will bring added resources that will benefit our economy," said Proenza.

The new USFL has targeted the spring of 2014 to kick off its inaugural season.