Orlando Predators name Darrell Harbin Chief Operations Officer

Tuesday August 3, 2010

ORLANDO - Darrell Harbin joins the Orlando Predators as the team’s Chief Operating Officer. He will be responsible for leading the Predators and their corporate partners into the new Amway Center, as well as the development of new revenue streams associated with the new Amway Center.  Darrell comes to the Orlando Predators from the Orlando Magic where he served five seasons as the teams Sr. Partnership Development Manager.

“It’s great to be a part of the Predators organization,” said Harbin.  “I’m looking forward to helping the team transition seamlessly into the new Amway Center and begin a brand-new era of Predator football.”

During the his five seasons with the Magic Darrell was instrumental in generating new corporate partnerships while developing community campaigns such as reading and learning centers for the Parramore community in conjunction with key Magic partners.

Prior to his tenure with the Magic, Harbin spent 10 years in Arena Football.  From 1995 to 2000, he served as Vice President of Sales and Operations for the Nashville Kats of the AFL.  From 1998 to 2000, Harbin’s sales team in Nashville generated over one million dollars in new sponsorship revenue.

After helping the Kats transition from Nashville to Atlanta, becoming the Georgia Force, Harbin accepted a position as general manager of the af2’s Augusta Stallions for the 2001 season. Having vastly improved the Stallions sponsorship and ticket sales programs, Harbin then joined the Carolina Cobras.  Starting in 2003, Harbin guided the Cobras through their transition from Raleigh to Charlotte.  Harbin left the Cobras after the 2005 season for Orlando to join the Magic.

"Our ownership group is ecstatic that we can add someone with the rare combination of NBA and AFL experience,” said Predators Managing Member Brett Bouchy.  “Darrell’s experience will help lead us into a new era of Orlando Predators football in the new Amway Center.”

Harbin brings a unique mix of Arena Football experience and knowledge of the Orlando sponsorship climate to the Orlando Predators that few possess.  He will be instrumental in helping the Orlando Predators leave a branding footprint on the new Amway center as they enter this new venue as their home field. Harbin’s knowledge of both the Orlando marketplace and the details of the Amway Center will be counted heavily upon during this critical transition period.