The group behind the failed Atlantic Schooners has established a refund platform following backlash over the lack of a convenient refund process for fans who had placed deposits for season tickets. The CFL team, which never materialized, required a $50 per seat deposit from supporters. Concerns have been raised by some depositors regarding the transparency of the franchise backers and the league’s handling of the situation.
In late 2018, a season-ticket campaign was initiated, resulting in over 6,000 deposits being made. However, the project was sidelined by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Subsequently, 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, a refund website was silently launched by the proponents in late August. They have assured that refund requests will be processed within 30 to 60 days. Despite the opportunity for reimbursement, individuals like Dave Smith from Amherst, N.S., who paid a $100 deposit for two seats, expressed bewilderment at not being informed by the backers.
Transparency concerns have been voiced by depositors like Jen Harris from Beechville, N.S., who, along with her husband, put down $100 for two seats. Harris emphasized the need for accountability from both the league and the franchise backers for the unsuccessful venture.
The CFL has distanced itself from the operations of the Schooners, attributing the collection of season ticket deposits to Schooner Sports and Entertainment. Notably, the league has not provided any comments on the matter. Although the CFL maintains an Atlantic Schooners website, the information available on the site is outdated.
Looking back, discussions surrounding a CFL team in Halifax were vibrant leading up to the pandemic. Anthony LeBlanc, a key figure in the venture, transitioned to an executive role with the NHL’s Ottawa Senators in April 2020. Despite the closure of Schooner Sports and Entertainment in 2023, LeBlanc clarified that refunds were being offered to season ticket holders.
Before the launch of the refund website, confusion existed among some depositors on how to secure refunds, with some facing unanswered queries. LeBlanc assured that all financial obligations associated with the CFL project were met. Deposit holders, like Mark Howard, expressed eagerness for a refund but pointed out the need for timely updates from the Schooners to the fans.
In conclusion, the fans who eagerly awaited the Atlantic Schooners now have the opportunity to seek refunds through the established platform. The need for improved communication and transparency between the backers, the league, and the fans has been underscored by the challenges faced during this unsuccessful CFL endeavor.