The ownership of the Victoria Seals (independent; Golden Baseball League) have ceased team operations, saying that issues with the lease at Royal Athletic Park made it impossible to turn a profit.
From the team’s press release:
Despite expressing continuous concerns over the current least agreement at out-dated Royal Athletic Park, the Seals were unable to find an agreement with the City that would address several alarming issues with the operation of a professional baseball team. Specifically, the poor field conditions, lack of a permanent outfield fence, unreasonable concession agreement and strained relationship with management at the current facility.
In addition, the current uncertainty surrounding the makeup of the GBL and the financially demanding geographic layout of the league put added stress on the organization.
“This is a city that deserves professional baseball, and our fans proved that over the course of two seasons here in Victoria,” said Seals President Darren Parker. “The support we received from this community was unparalleled at this level, and I am extremely disappointed that our current situation with the lease and the City of Victoria has made it financially impossible for the Seals to go forward any further.”
During their two-year stint in the Golden Baseball League, the Seals consistently finished in the top of league attendance standings while providing affordable family entertainment and generating millions of dollars in economic benefit to the Capital Region – including direct support to the accommodation, hospitality, transportation and local business community. In partnership with various youth baseball programs and other fundraising efforts, the franchise provided a commitment to its fan base both on and off the field.
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