The failed Atlantic Schooners’ supporters have created a refund platform following criticism for the lack of accessibility in refunding fans who had made deposits for season tickets. Fans had paid a $50 deposit per seat, but the CFL team never materialized. Concerns have been raised by depositors regarding the group managing the franchise bid and the CFL’s handling of the situation.
The team initiated a season-ticket campaign in late 2018, with over 6,000 individuals making deposits. However, discussions about the CFL venture ceased with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The associated companies, Schooner Sports and Entertainment, and Maritime Football Limited, had their registrations revoked.
A recent CBC News report highlighted the uncertainty among fans about the fate of their deposits. Subsequently, the backers discreetly launched a refund website, assuring that refund requests would be processed within 30 to 60 days. Dave Smith, who paid a $100 deposit for two seats, expressed confusion over the lack of communication from the proponents.
Transparency concerns have been raised by depositors like Jen Harris, who deposited $100 for two seats. They believe that the league should have been more forthcoming about the refund process and criticized the absence of communication regarding the refund website.
The CFL has distanced itself from the Schooners’ affairs, attributing the collection of season ticket deposits to Schooner Sports and Entertainment. Despite the lack of response to inquiries, the CFL maintains an Atlantic Schooners website with outdated franchise updates.
Mark Howard, who deposited for two seats and awaits a refund, emphasized the need for transparent communication from the Schooners regarding the refund process. Anthony LeBlanc, a key figure in the Schooners venture, clarified that the company had been offering refunds to season ticket holders since its closure in 2023.
Before the launch of the refund website, confusion existed among depositors on how to secure refunds. Harris noted the difficulty in finding the refund website address, indicating a lack of accessibility.
The timeline of the Schooners’ journey towards establishing a CFL franchise in Halifax was active before the pandemic. Anthony LeBlanc, an integral part of the venture, transitioned to an executive role with the NHL’s Ottawa Senators in April 2020 while remaining a director with Maritime Football Limited.
In conclusion, the efforts to bring a CFL team to Halifax faced challenges, with depositors expressing concerns over transparency and communication regarding refunds. The need for clear and accessible refund processes has been underscored by those impacted by the failed Atlantic Schooners project.