To avoid the fate of the Growlers, Rogues need more support from fans and sponsors, says owner

The end of the Newfoundland Growlers hockey team last week means there is now only one professional sports franchise left in the province — the Newfoundland Rogues of the Basketball Super League.

Team owner Tony Kenny told CBC News the situation with the Growlers is sad but he wasn't surprised.

"We need the support of not only the fans but the corporate sponsors, the community, the province and the City of St. John's," he said. "Everybody's got to take a part in making a franchise successful."

Former Newfoundland Growlers owner Dean MacDonald told CBC News last week the hockey team failed due to conflicts with St. John's city officials and financial hardships under the COVID-19 pandemic.

Maintaining a basketball team is cheaper, Kenny said, costing one-fifth of what it takes to maintain a hockey team. But financial support from sponsors like the city is still crucial, he said.

The team plays at least 25 home games, which also brings business to the downtown area.

Kenny said it's ultimately up to the fans and the sponsors to decide whether there is enough value in keeping the team going.

There is also the work the players do off the court, he said. They take part in community events with different organizations in the province and provide a place for young people interested in getting into the sport.

"We go to a lot of schools, a lot of clubs," said Kenny. "We'll be going to Labrador, Sheshatshiu, the second time to play, to give a camp to their Eagles, to help their basketball in their community."

That's the value of pro sports in the province, Kenny said. 

"We need support, definitely need support. We need fans," he said. "We need the basketball community and an invite to all people that were cheering for the growlers."

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