Supporters of the unsuccessful Atlantic Schooners have established a refund platform following criticism for the lack of transparency in facilitating refunds for fans who had submitted deposits for season tickets.
Fans had made a $50 deposit per seat, but the Canadian Football League (CFL) team did not come to fruition.
Individuals who had put down deposits are now raising concerns about the group managing the franchise bid and the CFL’s handling of the situation.
The team initiated a drive for season-ticket sales in late 2018, resulting in over 6,000 depositors.
However, the CFL project faded from public discourse with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Two associated companies linked to the initiative—Schooner Sports and Entertainment and Maritime Football Limited—had their registrations revoked in the Registry of Joint Stock Companies.
A report by CBC News in July shed light on fans left pondering the fate of their deposits. In late August, the proponents discreetly launched the refund website, assuring that refund requests would be processed within 30 to 60 days.
One deposit holder, Dave Smith from Amherst, Nova Scotia, who secured two seats with a $100 deposit, expressed confusion as contact details of depositors were available to the promoters but notifications were lacking.
Queries on Transparency
Smith remarked, “It feels like they set up the website but kept it low-key, possibly to deter a flood of refund requests.” He emphasized the need for the CFL and the franchise backers to be more transparent, noting the absence of any mention of the refund website in CFL newsletters.
Another deposit holder, Jen Harris of Beechville, Nova Scotia, who, along with her husband, deposited $100 for two seats, stressed that the league actively promoted the Schooners and should take responsibility for the situation.
Harris stated, “They owe us an explanation for the mishap and their involvement in it.” She added that such actions would portray them as more accountable.
The CFL has distanced itself from the Schooners’ affairs, with a league spokesperson providing a brief statement indicating that the ticket deposits were managed by Schooners Sports and Entertainment.
The CFL did not respond to requests for comments on this matter.
The CFL maintains a website for the Atlantic Schooners, featuring dated updates on the franchise but still pulling in current stories from the league.
Mark Howard, a Florida resident with a summer residence in northern Nova Scotia, deposited for two seats and is eager to pursue a refund. He highlighted the need for the Schooners to have been more forthcoming with fans about the developments.
He said, “They should have provided updates to the public on the current status.” He emphasized the importance of clear communication on the franchise’s future.
Schooners’ Progression
Prior to the pandemic, discussions on a CFL team in Halifax were vibrant.
Anthony LeBlanc, a former Phoenix Coyotes CEO, was a key figure in Schooners Sports and Entertainment and was prominently associated with the initiative.
By April 2020, LeBlanc had transitioned to an executive role with the NHL’s Ottawa Senators. Nonetheless, he retained a director position with Maritime Football Limited, as per the Registry of Joint Stock Companies.
LeBlanc