St. John's, NL - December 20, 2024 - SPS Entertainment Limited Partnership (SPS Entertainment) is thrilled to announce that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the Acadie-Bathurst Titan of the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) at the conclusion of the 2024-2025 QMJHL hockey season. The franchise is set for an exciting new chapter as SPS Entertainment seeks to relocate the franchise to St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador at the beginning of the 2025-26 QMJHL hockey season.

''We are very pleased to have the QMJHL back in Newfoundland and Labrador. St. John's is a market that we have kept an eye on since the departure of the Fog Devils more than 15 years ago,” said Mario Cecchini, Commissioner of the QMJHL, “The ownership group is solid, the arena is outstanding, and Newfoundland and Labrador fans love hockey. Starting next season, they will be able to watch an exciting and competitive team with a very bright future.''

SPS Entertainment is a partnership formed by businesspersons John Patten, John Steele, Jason Sharpe, and Jeff Sharpe.

"We are incredibly excited to bring the energy and passion of major junior hockey back to St. John's. This acquisition represents our commitment to the community and to fostering a new generation of hockey talent," said John Patten of SPS Entertainment. "We look forward to creating unforgettable experiences at Mary Brown's Centre."

Upon finalization of the acquisition, the team will officially make Mary Brown's Centre its new home, bringing top-tier junior hockey back to the vibrant City of St. John's. This move not only signifies a new era for the franchise but also transforms the local hockey landscape, offering fans and aspiring athletes a chance to experience high-calibre hockey right in their backyard.

"Bringing the QMJHL back to Newfoundland and Labrador isn't just about high-level hockey; it's about shining a spotlight on our homegrown talent,” said John Steele. “It's a chance to keep some of our young athletes close to home while giving them the platform to become stars, both here, and on the national stage."

“We want to recognize the partnership and support of St. John’s Sports and Entertainment, without them we wouldn’t be here today,” added Jason Sharpe. “We want every game at Mary Brown’s Centre to be a celebration of our community’s love for hockey.”

Starting December 21st at noon, fans can secure their place in line for season tickets by placing a $50 seat deposit. The process will be facilitated through the Mary Brown's Centre box office, both by phone at 709-576-7657 or online at mbcentre.ca.  For more information visit QMJHLNewfoundland.com/tickets.

Season ticket holders will have exclusive access to special events, priority for playoff tickets, and other benefits designed to enhance the fan experience. SPS Entertainment is also planning to unveil new team branding that will resonate with the spirit of the province, with further details to be announced in the coming months.

For more information about the team's relocation, season ticket options, and upcoming community events, please visit our website at QMJHLNewfoundland.com or our social media channels.

Media Contact:
Ken O’Leary
ken@qmjhlnewfoundland.com