The Milwaukee Mustangs announced Thursday that the Arena Football League has granted the team dormancy for the 2013 season. The ownership group will retain the AFL franchise and is working to add a partner for our return to play in 2014.

"The Mustangs had an aggressive marketing investment and will continue to contribute to the league during the dormancy, as well as sustain their presence in the community," said a team spokesman. "We will come back with a solid sponsor base for the 2014 season so we can deliver the best entertainment value to our fans."

"The Mustangs' organization is a strong partner that has always had and always will have great fans. I am pleased they will remain a part of the league during the team's dormancy and look forward to the team returning to the field in 2014," said Commissioner Jerry Kurz.

The Mustangs were proud to be an active and visible presence in the community. Mustangs' players and staff members made trips to Children's Hospital of Wisconsin and countless area schools, and participated in events like the Walk to Defeat ALS, and Walk Now for Autism Speaks.

The team also had an assertive promotional schedule for home games at the BMO Harris Bradley Center. The Mustangs continually strived to provide fans with the best sports entertainment value in Milwaukee. The fans always came first for the Mustangs, and they want to thank supporters for their loyalty over the past two Arena Football League seasons.

"The Mustangs would like to take the time to extend our sincere gratitude and appreciation for the support we received from the BMO Harris Bradley Center, our business and community partners, corporate sponsors and especially our fans," said another team spokesperson.

"We would also like to thank our Arena Football League partners and wish good luck to those teams participating in the 2013 season. We look forward to our return in a big way. "