The organizers of the unsuccessful Atlantic Schooners have established a website for refunds following criticism over the challenge fans faced in reclaiming their deposit for season tickets. Each fan had paid a $50 deposit per seat, but the CFL team never materialized. Some individuals who deposited money have expressed uncertainties concerning the group managing the franchise bid and the league’s handling of the situation.
In late 2018, a season-ticket campaign was initiated, attracting deposits from over 6,000 fans. However, discussions about the CFL venture ceased with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The affiliated companies associated with the initiative, Schooner Sports and Entertainment, and Maritime Football Limited, had their registrations revoked. In response to inquiries from fans regarding the whereabouts of their funds, the proponents quietly launched a refund portal in late August. They have committed to reimbursing individuals 30 to 60 days after submitting a refund request.
Dave Smith from Amherst, N.S., who paid a $100 deposit for two seats, expressed confusion as to why depositors were not informed since the proponents had their contact details. Smith highlighted the importance of transparency, emphasizing the need for better communication from the league. Similarly, Jen Harris from Beechville, N.S., who deposited $100 for two seats, believes the league should acknowledge their involvement in the situation.
The CFL has distanced itself from the Schooners’ activities, attributing the collection of season ticket deposits to Schooners Sports and Entertainment. Despite maintaining an Atlantic Schooners website, the league has not provided recent updates on the franchise’s status. Mark Howard, a resident of Florida with a summer home in northern Nova Scotia, is anticipating a refund for his two seats but believes the Schooners should have been more forthcoming with their supporters.
Prior to the launch of the refund website, there was confusion among fans about the refund process, with some receiving no responses to their inquiries. Anthony LeBlanc, a key figure in the Halifax CFL franchise efforts, clarified that the company had fulfilled its financial obligations and had been offering refunds for several years. Some fans struggled to locate the refund website, highlighting challenges in accessing the information.
The timeline leading up to the COVID-19 pandemic was characterized by active discussions about a CFL team in Halifax. Anthony LeBlanc, a former Phoenix Coyotes CEO, played a prominent role in Schooners Sports and Entertainment. Despite his subsequent involvement with the NHL’s Ottawa Senators, he remained connected to Maritime Football Limited. LeBlanc confirmed that Schooner Sports and Entertainment had ceased operations with no outstanding liabilities, offering refunds to season ticket holders.
In conclusion, the process of obtaining refunds for the failed Atlantic Schooners venture has raised questions about transparency and communication with fans. While the refund website has been established, challenges persist in disseminating information to affected individuals. The ongoing developments underscore the complexities surrounding the CFL franchise bid and the importance of accountability in such endeavors.
