The supporters of the unsuccessful Atlantic Schooners initiative have established a refund platform following criticism for the lack of ease in refunding fans who had deposited money for season tickets. Each fan had paid a $50 deposit per seat, but the CFL franchise did not come to fruition. Some depositors have raised concerns regarding the group behind the franchise attempt and the league’s response to the situation.
In late 2018, the team initiated a campaign to sell season tickets, resulting in over 6,000 deposits made by fans. However, the CFL project faded from public attention with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Two associated companies, namely Schooner Sports and Entertainment, and Maritime Football Limited, had their registrations revoked by the Registry of Joint Stock Companies.
A recent CBC News report highlighted the uncertainty faced by some fans regarding the status of their deposits. Subsequently, in late August, the advocates discreetly launched a refund website, assuring fans of refunds within 30 to 60 days of requesting a refund. Dave Smith from Amherst, N.S., who paid a $100 deposit for two seats, expressed confusion over the lack of direct communication from the advocates to depositors.
Questions of transparency have surfaced among fans like Smith and Jen Harris from Beechville, N.S., who also deposited $100 for two seats. They believe the league should have been more forthcoming about the refund process. Despite the CFL distancing itself from the Schooners’ operations, fans continue to question the handling of the situation.
Mark Howard, residing in Florida with a summer residence in northern Nova Scotia, is eager to seek a refund for the two seats he reserved. However, he emphasizes the need for clearer communication from the Schooners’ side to address fan concerns.
The lead-up to the pandemic saw active discussions around the potential CFL franchise in Halifax, with Anthony LeBlanc, a former CEO of the Phoenix Coyotes, spearheading the initiative. LeBlanc had transitioned to an executive role with the NHL’s Ottawa Senators by April 2020 but remained a director at Maritime Football Limited. He stated that refunds were being offered to season ticket holders following the closure of Schooner Sports and Entertainment in 2023.
Before the launch of the refund website, several individuals reported challenges in obtaining refunds or receiving responses to their refund queries. LeBlanc affirmed that the financial obligations related to the Halifax CFL franchise were duly fulfilled. Despite efforts to locate the refund website, some fans found it difficult to access the necessary information.
In conclusion, the refund process for Atlantic Schooners’ season ticket deposits has been initiated, aiming to address the concerns of fans who had eagerly supported the franchise initiative.
