By François Biber

WHL announces new owner of the Saskatoon Blades

Sep 4, 2013 | 5:10 PM

A unanimous vote gives final approval in the sale the Saskatoon Blades.

“The decision was made to approve (Mike) Priestner and we're looking forward to him and hope the fans get behind the new owner as we move forward,” said Western Hockey League commissioner Ron Robison.

Today the Western Hockey League approved the transfer sale of the Saskatoon Blades from the Brodsky family to Priestner Sports Corp.

The WHL Board of Governors voted unanimously in favour of the share purchase at a meeting held today in Calgary. It’s anticipated the sale will close later this week.

Formerly a WHL goaltender, Priestner owns Go Auto, an Edmonton based automotive company.

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Reports suggested a second group was looking to take over ownership of the Blades. A group led by former NHLers Rhett Warrener and Kelly Chase thought they were in the mix, but Robison pointed out that when the board of governors met today, they focused on Priestner's application only.

“(Priestner) had already entered into a purchase and sale agreement with the Brodsky family and had gone through the due dilligence process with the league so we were at a point where we were reviewing his application not the other group's at this stage,” Robison said.

The Brodsky family have owned the Blades franchise since 1976. The Blades are the longest standing WHL member club in the 48 year history. Robison said the longevity of the Brodsky family's ownership of the Blades tied some emotions to the deal.

“When you consider there's only been two owners of the Saskatoon Blades since its inception 48 years ago, 37 years which the Brodsky family have owned this franchise, it was a very emotional day for Jack Brodsky,” Robison said. “Jack has been operating the franchise for the past 21 years and has done an incredible job for us, not only as governor of the Blades but as a representative on our executive committee.”

Further details will be announced at a media conference on Sept. 5 at Credit Union Centre.

fbiber@rawlco.com

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