Synopsis: The San Antonio Gunslingers, was one of original expansion members of United States Football League in 1984. The ‘Slingers always being laughed at by USFL teams, the Gunslingers were one of the USFL's prime examples of how not to run a franchise. The team appeared to be underfinanced from the start. Team owner Clinton Manges had a fortune in oil but had a hard time converting it to cash to pay his players and staff. The league even had to tell the 'Slingers to move their offices out of a double-wide trailer in the Alamo Stadium parking lot. Missed paydays became routine during the 1985 season, causing the resignation of coach Jim Bates and a near player mutiny.
In 1984 Season, started with 0-4 mark, San Antonio compiled a respectable 7-7 record the rest of the season. Despite a lack of name talent, Gil Steinke coached a disciplined team that forced 13 more turnovers than it gave up. The Gunslingers, missed the playoffs.
In 1985 Season, Gunslingers often had missed paydays and the worst run team in the USFL. The ‘Slingers defense known as the Bounty Hunter produced four safeties, one of the best in the USFL. Jim Bates left the team after several missed payrolls, and Gal Steinke took back the reins down the stretch. The team finished 5-13 and folded before next season was talked about. |
