The San Antonio Gunslingers were a professional team that competed in the USFL during the 1980s. Known for their passionate fans and unique Texas identity, the San Antonio Gunslingers football team brought excitement and determination to every game. Their story reflects the spirit of Texas football and remains a memorable chapter in USFL history.
Established
1984
City
San Antonio
League History
1984 – 1985 / United States Football League
Team History
1984 – 1985 / San Antonio Gunslingers
Nickname
Gunslingers – The San Antonio Gunslingers were a professional American football team that played in the United States Football League (USFL) from 1984 to 1985. Despite their short tenure, they remain one of the most memorable teams in USFL history due to their unique nickname and logo. But where did this name come from?
San Antonio Gunslingers Origin
In 1983, San Antonio was awarded an expansion franchise for the USFL’s second season. The city had been without an NFL team since 1972, when the Dallas Texans moved to Kansas City and became known as the Chiefs. With no other pro-football options available, locals were eager for some gridiron action and wanted something unique with which to identify themselves – enter “The Gunslingers”!
This moniker was chosen by local fans who voted on it over several other potential names, including Rough Riders, Stallions, Toros & Spurs, among others; each option has its unique connection with Texas culture or identity at large, but none quite captures what people felt about being part of a new football team like “Gunslingers” did! It conjured up images of cowboys aiming at opponents while also conveying strength & bravado - perfect attributes for any sports fan looking to get behind his/her home squad!
The term gunslinger is derived from "gunfighter," someone who used firearms as tools during conflicts between rival groups or individuals back in Wild West days when shootouts would often determine winners & losers on both sides of law enforcement lines alike; thus giving us our beloved mascot that continues today even after all these years have passed! So if you're ever wondering why those crazy Texans call themselves "Gunslingers," now you know why - because it's just too cool not to.
Original USFL Team
No
Final USFL Team
No
Team’s Final Outlook
A month after the season, Commissioner Harry Usher had seen enough, and gave Clinton Manges an ultimatum–make restitution for the team’s debts in 15 days or lose the franchise. When this didn’t occur, the Gunslingers became the only USFL franchise to be revoked.
Championship
USFL Championship 0
Stadium
1984 – 1985 / Alamo Stadium
Owner
1984 – 1985 / Clinton Manges
Coaches
1985 / Gil Steinke (2 wins – 4 losses)
1985 / Jim Bates (3 wins – 9 losses)
1984 / Gil Steinke (7 wins – 11 losses)
- 1984
-
Gunslingers Team Formation
Going into the 1984 season, the USFL made the decision to expand to eighteen teams in order to boost league capital. However, efforts to expand to Minneapolis-St. Paul and Seattle fell through. San Antonio was mentioned as a possible market for expansion, as rapid growth through the 1970s propelled it to major-city status. By 1984, almost 800,000 people lived in ...
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San Antonio Gunslingers History
The San Antonio Gunslingers were a professional American football team that competed in the USFL from 1984 to 1985. The franchise was founded by Texas oilman and businessman Clinton Manges and became known for its colorful management, loyal fanbase, and gritty performances. The San Antonio Gunslingers football team played its home games at Alamo Stadium, representing the pride and passion of Texas football.
In their first season in 1984, the San Antonio Gunslingers finished with a 7–11 record under head coach Gil Steinke. Despite limited resources and financial challenges, the team gained attention for its defensive toughness and never-give-up attitude. Quarterback Rick Neuheisel and running back Scott Stamper were among the standout performers, helping the San Antonio Gunslingers football team stay competitive in several close matchups.
By 1985, however, financial troubles began to overshadow the franchise’s progress. Reports surfaced of players and staff receiving late or no pay, and the USFL itself was struggling with stability. The Gunslingers finished the season with a 5–13 record before the league eventually folded after its failed move to a fall schedule. Despite the challenges, the San Antonio Gunslingers left behind an enduring reputation for resilience and heart, characteristics that embodied Texas football culture.
Gunslingers Achievements
Memorable 1984 Season
During the 1984 USFL season, the San Antonio Gunslingers football team achieved several key victories, including wins over teams like the Arizona Wranglers and the Oklahoma Outlaws. Their 7–11 record was a testament to their fight and determination, despite being one of the league’s lowest-funded teams.
Texas Football Legacy
The San Antonio Gunslingers became a symbol of small-market dedication in professional football. Their passionate home crowds at Alamo Stadium created an electric atmosphere that kept the spirit of USFL football alive in San Antonio. Even today, the Gunslingers are remembered as a true underdog story, representing grit, loyalty, and Texas pride.
The legacy of the San Antonio Gunslingers football franchise continues to live on among diehard fans and historians of the USFL, celebrating a team that refused to quit despite overwhelming odds.
Sports Fan Products
Accomplishments
Averaged 15,444 in 1984 and 11,721 in 1985 (23,000 seat stadium)
*Blue is this team’s history