Foregone conclusion

It is extraordinarily difficult to be a Kansas City sports fan this year. The Royals again occupy the American League Central's basement; the Chiefs are dismal; and even Kansas City's Arena Football League team, the Kansas City Brigade, is a consistent loser. The Brigade lost nine of its first 12 games and has one of the league's worst records, a mean trick in a league that prides itself on its complete unpredictability. The home schedule concludes at 1 p.m. when the Brigade takes on the Arizona Rattlers, a likely participant in this year's Arena League playoffs. The Rattlers' quarterback, Shedrick Bonner, is a 13-year veteran and considered one of the league's greatest-ever players. The Rattlers play in the Mitsubishi Western Division in the Arena League, with each team noted for its dependability and cost-consciousness. Tickets are $9 to $160. Call 913-383-8020.
Sun., June 8, 1 p.m., 2008