Herb Chorbajian was introduced at a press conference today as the owner of the newest National Lacrosse League franchise, set to begin play in the upcoming 2000 season in Albany, New York. The expansion team is the NLL’s eighth club and will play at the Pepsi Arena.

"This is a very exciting time for our league," NLL Commissioner John Livsey said. "We feel very fortunate to have Albany in our league. Herb Chorbajian is the type of individual and owner who will help launch the NLL into the next century. The sports fans of Albany and the surrounding area are in for a real treat."

"I am thrilled to have this opportunity. Sports is something that I, personally, have wanted to get involved with for a long time," Chorbajian said. "With the addition of this lacrosse team, I’m sure the area residents will continue to see that ‘From The Palace to the Pepsi Arena’, we’re going to have a lot to cheer about downtown. This has been a competitive process and I thank the NLL Board of Governors for selecting me for their newest team."

The league schedule is expected to be released by the beginning of September, with games likely to start around the beginning of the new year.

"I am thrilled that the lacrosse team coming to Albany County will call the Pepsi Arena home," said County Executive Mike Breslin. "The team will attract more sports fans to the arena, and will contribute to its success. The move once again demonstrates that the Pepsi is the premiere sporting and entertainment venue."

"With the surge of revitalization that is currently taking place in downtown Albany, I am sure there would be strong support for a home team of professional lacrosse. I am always in favor of new opportunities for family entertainment and the Pepsi Arena sports schedules provide variety and excitement for young and old alike," said Albany Mayor Jerry Jennings.

"We are very pleased to welcome our fourth full-time tenant to the Pepsi Arena. With its high energy and excitement, we feel indoor lacrosse will be very successful," said Pepsi Arena General Manager Bob Belber. "And with his enthusiasm and business knowledge, Herb will be a great owner."

Chorbajian is a lifelong resident of Albany, where he is currently Vice Chairman of Charter One Financial Corp. after having been the chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Albank Financial Corp. of Albany during his 15 years there. He is active in many community and civic organizations, including Board of Albany Memorial Hospital Foundation, Board - Albany College of Pharmacy, Board - Capitalize Albany, Board - Center for Economic Growth, and Board - ACT 2000 (Arts, Culture, Tourism). He and his wife have four children.

Fans wishing to be contacted when ticket information becomes available should call 518.487.2085 or visit the Pepsi Arena box office.