PORTLAND, Maine — Maine's minor league hockey team has a new owner, and he's from New Hampshire.
The Maine Mariners announced Tuesday that Dexter Paine, a North Conway native, reached an agreement to acquire the team from Comcast Spectacor.
This will not affect the team's affiliation with the Boston Bruins, and the Mariners will still play their home games at Cross Insurance Arena in Portland.
“Portland holds a special place in my heart and some of my earliest hockey memories involve attending Mariners games. I am thrilled to be able to realize this life-long dream with a city and team that mean so much to me," Paine said in a press release. "I know first-hand the enthusiasm our fans have for the Mariners and am committed to doing everything I can to deliver for them and the team. I look forward to supporting our dedicated hockey operations staff and players as they work to create a sustainable winner with a style of play that our fans are proud and eager to support."
The ownership transition is expected to be completed before the start of the upcoming season, according to the team. The sale is subject to approvals, including from the ECHL Board of Governors.
The Mariners' season begins Oct. 18. To see the team's full schedule, click here.