The Georgia Force, Atlanta’s home team in the Arena Football League, and Comprehensive Pet Therapy (CPT), Atlanta’s most respected pet training company, have partnered to create “Black” and “Blue.” Black and Blue will become the Georgia Force’s official canine mascots. However, true to CPT’s name, Black and Blue’s function will become far more comprehensive than the traditional canine football mascot. Black and Blue will become professional football’s first non-humans trained to retrieve the kicking tee after each kickoff. In addition, Black and Blue will perform during intermission activities and greet fans during promotional events.
The Force plans to debut Black and Blue on NBC during their nationally televised home opener on Sunday, February 16, 2003. Moreover, NBC intends to produce vignettes about the unique tee retrievers and halftime entertainers that will be shown during the broadcast.
CPT has been chosen by The Force to select and train the dogs most appropriate for the roles of Black and Blue. CPT plans to hold scheduled tryouts whereby three dogs will be selected for training. CPT will provide complimentary training for the selected dogs who will perform at each of the Force’s eight home games.
Potential dogs should already have some obedience training, possess excellent retrieve drive, have high tolerance of noise and crowds, and demonstrate athleticism as well as mental and physical endurance. CPT has scheduled tryouts for Saturday, November 2, 2002 at 9 AM. The Georgia Force will provide a player as a celebrity judge. CPT will provide the remaining evaluators. Persons who believe their dog has the mettle to become Black or Blue should contact CPT by phone (770-396-6433) to register for the tryout session. Candidates must register prior to Friday, November 1 at 6 PM to receive consideration.
