The Gems began play in 2009, when then owners Richard Bruner and Ryan Yerrick, brought the team to Hara Arena following the departure of the ECHL’s Dayton Bombers from the city. Yerrick and Bruner were removed as owners of the struggling team in December 2009, and Kathy Rupp, Dr. Paul Nitz and Rob Garfield took over the team’s ownership.
“We want to personally thank you for your loyal support over the past three years,” the Rupp, Nitz and Garfield said in a letter to fans. “Although this is a very difficult time for us all, we made some great memories and couldn’t have done it without you.”
A new team from the Federal Hockey League will operate at Hara Arena for the 2012-2013 season.
Fans who made deposits on season tickets have two options, according to the letter. A full refund can be sent by mail within four weeks or the Gems can transfer season ticket deposits over to the new FHL team.
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