It’s been quite the year for Albany arena football fans.

The Albany Empire created a lot more drama than wins this season, ultimately leading to them being kicked out of the league by the National Arena League.

After everything that has unfolded, will arena football return to Albany?

Jim Malone’s love for Albany arena football is unrivaled. He’s got hats, photos, season passes and autographed footballs dating back to the birth of the Albany Firebirds in 1990.

“A lot of it is plain old enthusiasm; sometimes you could call it crazy,” Malone said.

He was not only in charge of the Firebirds booster club, but also led the crowd in the defense chant during home games. That infectious enthusiasm continued with the ConQuest and then later with the Albany Empire, and eventually spreading that passion to his grandson Anthony Bornt.

“He was just like, ‘Hey do you want to see arena football because it’s back?’ And I was like, ‘Oh yeah, sure,’ ” Bornt said.

Over the years, the pair have witnessed Arena Bowl and NAL championships. They have only missed one game ever.

“We were the big fans, and we stayed along, and I learned from him too that we have to be with this team even with all the ups and downs especially that we’ve had this year,” Bornt said.

Albany went through numerous players and coaches under the ownership of former NFL wide receiver Antonio Brown this season as the Empire stumbled to a 1-6 record before getting kicked out of the NAL last month.

“You learn the responsibilities of the business and making sure things get done,” Malone said. “That’s where the failure [was].”

Despite a tumultuous year, they believe arena football in Albany is not dead.

MVP Arena general manager Bob Belber recently said he’s “in discussions with two very reputable groups that both have a long-term vision to keep arena football in Albany.”

The choice of leagues is still being reviewed, but Belber is confident it’ll be back in 2024.

“I’ll be behind whoever comes in and we’ll support it,” Malone said.

He hopes to be back in his seat on the 25-yard line soon, with his grandson next to him, and leading the defense chant once again.

“Arena football really is a family experience, and it’s something I’m really grateful for,” Malone said.