Calgary Mustangs moving to Blackfalds

CALGARY (660 NEWS) – After nearly 30 years in Calgary, a Junior A hockey team is preparing to head north, up the QE II.

The Alberta Junior Hockey League announced Wednesday it approved the sale of the Calgary Mustangs and relocation to Blackfalds.

In May, the Mustangs were granted a leave of absence from the 2019-2020 season due to financial difficulties.

In a letter sent to fans, president Mike Cartney said the team’s off-ice product didn’t equal the success they had on the ice.

“Low ticket sales, decreasing advertising revenue and a lengthy playoff absence have left the franchise in a difficult position financially.”

The team had initially applied to relocate to Strathmore but was denied in April.

READ MORE: Future of Calgary Mustangs Junior A hockey team in jeopardy

The team has transferred ownership to Doug Quinn, a Red Deer area businessman and hockey coach. Quinn coached the Midget AAA Optimist Chiefs for nearly a decade. In that time, the Chiefs have won five Alberta Championships, three Pacific Championships and two Telus Cup National Championships.

“I am very excited for the opportunity to bring a Junior A team to Blackfalds,” said Quinn. “It is a growing and dynamic community, which has shown tremendous support with their commitment to build a new arena.”

The town of Blackfalds, located north of Red Deer, is currently working on an expansion of its multi-plex and arena and hope to have it finished and ready for the 2021-2022 season.

Blackfalds Team Owner Doug Quinn and Director of Hockey Ops Al Parada are thrilled to partner with @blackfalds to bring Junior A hockey and a first-class facility to the community! pic.twitter.com/mah1qDNw7U

— TheAJHL (@TheAJHL) October 23, 2019

“The AJHL is enthused about the opportunity to bring a team into a new Alberta community and add another first-class facility to the League,” said AJHL Commissioner Ryan Bartoshyk.

“We are confident that Mr. Quinn and the Town of Blackfalds will provide a successful new home for the Alberta Junior Hockey League. I would also like to recognize the significant commitment and contributions of the Calgary Mustangs and thank the organization for their efforts in securing the future of the franchise in Blackfalds.”

The Mustangs had played in Calgary since 1990, known as the Royals. The team won its first and only league championship that season.