There is no longer a Newfoundland Growlers.
Tuesday marked the end of play for the Maple Leafs’ ECHL affiliate as Deacon Sports and Entertainment, the team’s owner, was unable to locate a buyer.
The Growlers’ league membership was terminated by the ECHL board of governors “for failure to fulfill its obligations under the ECHL bylaws,” the league declared.
“We express our sadness over the loss of ECHL hockey in the Newfoundland market,” released ECHL commissioner Ryan Crelin. “We are hopeful that hockey can return to the region for their devoted and passionate fanbase, and we would like to thank the Growlers fans and partners for their support of the team throughout their existence.”
There were six games left on the Growlers’ schedule for 2023–2024.
It is anticipated that players with AHL contracts will join the Toronto Marlies.
ECHL players are officially free agents without restrictions.
