The much-anticipated takeover of Fife Flyers has been confirmed.
A Northern American group, led by Cardiff Devils legend and new Flyers president and GM Max Birbraer, has taken control of the club, with work already well underway to install a new management team ahead of next season.
Fife, the UK’s oldest ice hockey club, was put up for sale by previous owners Tom Muir and Jack Wishart back in February, the pair having led the club for nearly three decades.
At the time, Muir and Wishart described the decision to leave as a “difficult” one to make, adding that they were looking forward to seeing new investors “write the next chapter” in Flyers history.
A club statement confirming the takeover read: “We want to express our gratitude to those who carried the torch before us and acknowledge their role in preserving the proud legacy of the Flyers.
“From this moment forward, our group is fully responsible for the direction, development and future of the club – and we take that responsibility seriously.
“It is an honour to lead the UK’s oldest and most iconic hockey team.
“Our mission is clear: to restore the pride, energy, and identity of Fife Flyers hockey – both on and off the ice.
“This is a people’s club. Fife is the beating heart of Scottish hockey, and its supporters are the soul of this organization.
“Your loyalty, your voice, and your passion will shape everything we do.
“We are here to build something special – a first-class hockey experience that reflects the grit and character of this town.
“Under this leadership, we will lead with transparency, we will compete with pride, and we will always listen.”
What happens next?
Photo credit: Fife Flyers
The new ownership group have confirmed that they are in advanced discussions to appoint a new head coach in the near future.
Their last permanent head coach, Tom Coolen, parted ways with the club back in December after a difficult start to the season.
Johnny Curran was placed in interim charge until the end of the season, assisted by Todd Dutiaume.
However, the pair were unable to prevent the club from enduring the worst season of the EIHL era (5-47-2), finishing 35 points adrift at the foot of the Elite League standings.
The new owners say that a number of key players from last season have already been contacted, vowing to build a “competitive and committed roster” ahead of next season.
Backroom additions confirmed
Gareth Chalmers
The club have also confirmed the appointment of Gareth Chalmers as their new chief commercial & operations officer.
Chalmers boasts 20 years of EIHL management experience.
He recently enjoyed a successful 12-year stint as managing director of Glasgow Clan and the Braehead Arena, but left his role back in February.
On his appointment, the Flyers’ new ownership group added: “We’re excited to grow our partnerships and business operations with his leadership.”
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