The Salt Lake Stallions were a professional Salt Lake Stallions football team that competed in the Alliance of American Football (AAF). Founded in 2018, they represented Salt Lake City, Utah, with pride. Known for their tough defense and loyal fan base, the Salt Lake Stallions quickly became a memorable part of American football history.
Established
2018
City
Salt Lake City
League History
2019 / Alliance of American Football
Team History
2019 / Salt Lake Stallions
Nickname
Stallions – The Salt Lake Stallions, one of the newest Alliance of American Football (AAF) teams, have quickly become a fan favorite with their unique nickname. The name “Stallions” pays homage to Utah's rich Western heritage and is a fitting symbol for this team that has already shown strength and courage on the field. But what's even more interesting than how they got their name is where it came from!
Salt Lake Stallions Origin
The origin story behind the Salt Lake Stallions starts with an old-timey horse race held annually in Utah called "the Great Race." This event was first established in 1901 by two local ranchers who wanted to create something special for their community. Over time, it grew into a major spectacle that drew thousands of spectators each year - including some famous faces like John Wayne! In honor of this beloved tradition, AAF officials adopted its namesake as part of our new franchise's identity: The Salt Lake Stallions were born!
Not only does this reference pay tribute to Utah’s long history, but it also gives us all something else we can be proud of – being part of an organization dedicated to excellence both on and off the field. With hard work comes great rewards, so go out there and show your support every game day by cheering loudest when you hear those three words: Go Stalllliiiooooons!!!
Championship
AAF Championships 0
Stadium
2019 / Rice–Eccles Stadium
Owner
2019 / Alliance of American Football
Coach
2019 / Dennis Erickson
*Blue is this team’s history
- 2018
- 2019
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Salt Lake Stallions Team Formation
The Salt Lake Stallions were a professional American football franchise based in Salt Lake City, and one of the eight members of the Alliance of American Football (AAF), which began play in February 2019. The Stallions were the northernmost team in the AAF, as the league’s only franchise north of the 35th parallel. They played their home games at Rice–Eccles ... -
Stallions’ play their first Game
The Stallions’ first game was a 38–22 defeat to the Arizona Hotshots at Sun Devil Stadium on February 10, 2019. Their first home game was on February 23, also against the Hotshots and ended in a 23–15 victory
Salt Lake Stallions History
The Salt Lake Stallions were a professional American football team based in Salt Lake City, Utah. The team competed in the Alliance of American Football (AAF) and officially began play in February 2019. Despite being a new franchise, the Salt Lake Stallions football team quickly gained attention for their physical play and loyal fan support across Utah.
Under the leadership of head coach Dennis Erickson, a veteran coach with college and NFL experience, the Salt Lake Stallions built a strong roster featuring players from major programs such as BYU and Utah. Quarterback Josh Woodrum and running back Joel Bouagnon powered the offense, while the defense was led by standout linebacker Gionni Paul, who brought intensity and leadership to the field.
Throughout the Salt Lake Stallions football season, the team showed consistent effort, often keeping games close against top opponents like the Arizona Hotshots and Birmingham Iron. Their style of play—tough defense paired with strategic offense—earned them respect throughout the AAF community.
Stallions Achievements
Even though the Alliance of American Football (AAF) folded before completing its inaugural season, the Salt Lake Stallions left a memorable impact on fans in Utah. The team became a symbol of perseverance and unity, giving football fans in the region a reason to celebrate the sport once again.
Strong Defensive Performances
One of the Salt Lake Stallions football team’s biggest strengths was its defense. The Stallions consistently limited opponents’ scoring, finishing among the top defensive teams in the AAF before the league’s suspension.
Notable Player Contributions
Players like Joel Bouagnon, Josh Woodrum, and Gionni Paul became standout names for the Salt Lake Stallions football franchise. Their performances contributed to the team’s growing popularity and helped establish a foundation for what could have been a lasting football legacy in the AAF.