Junior A hockey didn’t leave Halifax with the Wolverines — it will be back at the Forum in the fall.
The Maritime Junior A Hockey League announced yesterday that a nine-member ownership group has purchased the Antigonish Bulldogs and is moving the team to Halifax.
John Keizer, a former president of the Pictou County Weeks, and Eric Thompson, a former MJAHL president, are leading a group will attempt to fill the void left in April when the Wolverines packed their bags for Bridgewater.
“I feel there’s a niche here, an opportunity here, for junior A hockey,” said Keizer. “We’re going to work very diligently to make sure that happens and that we’re successful.”
The Wolverines struggled with attendance at the Forum this past season, rarely exceeding crowds of 600. Keizer said his group’s broad-based ownership approach differs from past franchises in Halifax and expects it to be a key to success.
“Gone are the days when an organization such as this can be a one-person show,” Keizer said.
“There’s new people, fresh ideas and a renewed vigour and commitment to making a franchise go,” said John Lynn, chairman of the MJAHL board. “There were questions about Halifax, but they understand them and will address them.”
Dan Sangster will serve as acting general manager and will hold the job for “as long as is required,” Keizer said. Keizer added that a head coach, team name and logo should be in place before the draft, which is June 20 and 21 in Amherst.
