The team was announced on June 20, 2006. One month later, Todd Ellis, former Georgia Tech football player, was announced as the team owner and president. A name-the team contest was held, and despite Ellis' preference of Tupelo Kings in honor of Tupelo-born Elvis Presley, the team was named the Mississippi MudCats for the state's catfish industry. Brian Brents was announced as the inaugural head coach.
In the 2007 season, the Mudcats averaged over 3,200 fans per game, more than any other team in the AIFA.[citation needed] At the end of the season, civil rights attorney Jim Waide bought the team from Todd Ellis.
The 2008 MudCats lost only one regular season game for best record in the AIFA for 2008 at 13–1. They won their division championship playoff game against the Columbus Lions before losing in the conference championship to the Wyoming Cavalry. In late 2008, owner Jim Waide has said he would not field a team in 2009.
Season-by-season records
Season records
Season
W
L
T
Finish
Playoff results
2007
11
3
0
2nd Southern Div.
Won Conf. Semifinal (Tallahassee) 62–32 Lost Conf. Championship (Lakeland) 62–84
2008
13
1
0
1st South Div.
Won Div. Championship (Columbus) 52–50 Lost Conf. Championship (Wyoming) 26–54
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