TULSA - In the AFL's efforts to promote breast cancer awareness, pink striped footballs will be used during the First Round of the 2011 AFL postseason.

"There is no better stage during the AFL season than the playoffs to endorse breast cancer awareness," AFL Commissioner Jerry B. Kurz said. "It's great to bring back the pink striped footballs and bring our teams together to promote breast cancer awareness. Breast cancer affects many of our players in one way or another and it's great to see them supporting an important cause."

The AFL and its teams are devoted to the cause. The eight-playoff teams on the Road to ArenaBowl XXIV are already working with local breast cancer awareness, non-profit organizations. Players and coaches will also sport pink apparel during First Round games.

The First Round of the 2011 AFL Playoffs kicks off on Friday, July 29, 2011 featuring the Orlando Predators at Jacksonville Sharks on NFL.com at 8 pm ET.

About the AFL

Since its inception in 1987, the AFL has provided the fast-paced and exciting game of Arena Football to millions of fans in a myriad of markets across the country. The NFL Network will once again broadcast an AFL National Game of the Week for the entire regular and post season on Friday nights at 8:00 pm EST, culminating with the ArenaBowl Championship Game on August 12.