by J. Brooks Terry
Staff Writer
Over the weekend, Jacksonville celebrated the 10-year anniversary of being awarded an NFL franchise, but according to NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue, that milestone will appear comparatively minuscule when the city looks back on the 2005 Super Bowl.
“I say that for several reasons,” said Tagliabue Monday during a Super Bowl Host Committee luncheon at the Adam’s Mark Hotel. “But mainly, it is the way the game has become part of our national culture for everyone to the teams playing in it, to the city hosting it, to the fans who are all a part of it, and that is truly extraordinary.
“When you look back in 11 years, I’m confident the impact it makes will be greater than what the Jaguars have in the last decade.”
Tagliabue said Jacksonville — “a logistical challenge” — has done a satisfactory job making preparations for the event, a good indicator.
“I’m pleased with what I have seen and there is no cause for any serious concerns at this time,” he said. “There are always going to be chest pains associated with something like this and I’m sure the 2005 game will be no different when it is here.”
Referencing the over $200 million dollar fiscal impact of the game, Tagliabue, said, “You can look at the statistics and let them speak for themselves, but it is truly up to the community to make those statistics a reality. The community has to be willing to invest the necessary time and energy to allow for a more positive and permanent impact.
“I ask that you keep in mind that the Super Bowl is not just good for businesses. It’s also for the non-profit groups. It’s about the young people and children, too. The Super Bowl is a long-term asset for the entire community, on all levels, but it will take the whole of the community to help realize it, to help it leave a long-lasting legacy.”
Tagliabue, who watched the Jaguars defeat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 13-10 Sunday night, said there would be no specific rotation when considering future host cities, including Jacksonville, though added the city’s “success in presenting the game” would obviously factor into getting another opportunity.
“For many years it went back and forth between only four cities,” he said, before unveiling the 2005 Super Bowl logo. “But as it has continued to grow, we understand the importance of letting more and more cities host it because it benefits a lot of people. Plus, we really like the idea of rewarding cities who are supportive of the NFL and the Super Bowl.”