Owner of ECHL team booted from home arena says he'll build his own

The owner of the ECHL's Newfoundland Growlers, which serves as the ECHL affiliate for the Toronto Maple Leafs, isn't messing around when it comes to finding a location for the team to play in. Dean MacDonald, the head of Deacon Sports and Entertainment (DSE), has stated he's willing to build his own arena in the area to serve as a permanent home for the Growlers.

In late October, the city of St. John's announced that the Growlers were not allowed to play games at the Mile One Centre due to a workplace investigation.

"Employees of SJSEL have brought forward allegations of disrespectful workplace conduct against staff at DSE that must be fully investigated," said St. John's Mayor Danny Breen at the time. "Given the seriousness of the situation we have no choice but to take this action. While we know this is disappointing to hockey fans, the health and wellbeing of our employees is our top priority."

Since that time, the Growlers have been playing at an arena in Conception Bay South, just outside of St. John's. Asked why he would consider building his own place, MacDonald said there appear to be no other options.

"When you have nowhere to play you don't get much choice," he said.

As for the location, MacDonald indicated that it would be in the Mount Pearl, Paradise, CBS area, all just outside the City of St. John's.

The Leafs had offered to Growlers the opportunity to play some home games at the arena used by the Marlies of the AHL. That was no longer needed after the agreement with CBS.

MUST READ

33 minutes ago  |  By Tom Banks Quinn Hughes Ejected: Suspension May be Coming for the Reigning Norris Winner

1 hour ago  |  By Tom Banks Matvei Michkov Stuns With Crazy Quote in Post-Game Interview Following OT Winner

3 hours ago  |  By Tom Banks Jeremy Swayman on the Verge of Losing the Starting Role in Boston: His Contract Looks Like a Disaster

6 hours ago  |  By TJ Tucker Detroit Red Wings Place Massive Six-Foot-Six Forward on Waivers

8 hours ago  |  By Graham Montgomery Connor Bedard's Struggles Prove Chicago Blackhawks are in Dire Need of a Coaching Change

9 hours ago  |  By Graham Montgomery NHL Analyst Believes Toronto Maple Leafs are Exploring Possible Reunion With Nazem Kadri

10 hours ago  |  By Graham Montgomery 800-Game NHL Veteran Nick Bonino Signs an Unexpected New Professional Contract

12 hours ago  |  By Graham Montgomery Jordan Reaves Calls Out Darnell Nurse After He Plays the Victim Following Hit From Brother Ryan

MORE STORIES