Story perspectives

Mama Stanley Ends Oilers Support After Formenton Signing

By Drooid · Sep 11, 2026, 8:01 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Mary Loewen (Mama Stanley) announced she will stop supporting the Edmonton Oilers.
She announced the decision after Edmonton signed Alex Formenton to a one-year, $850,000 contract.
Alex Formenton, 26, was acquitted of sexual assault on 24 July 2025.
Loewen launched a Change.org petition that quickly gathered over 1,100 signatures.
GM Stan Bowman defended the signing, citing Formenton’s reinstatement by Hockey Canada.

History

Historical Context

In April 2014 Brendan Shanahan became president of the Toronto Maple Leafs, and fan outrage during the 2014-15 season—exemplified by jersey-throwing protests, the March 23, 2015 sell-out streak ending, and a low 68-point finish—prompted a “scorched-earth” rebuild that saw staff dismissed. That history of pressure mirrors Mary Loewen’s 2025 petition against the Edmonton Oilers’ $850,000 Alex Formenton contract, showing how fan activism can drive NHL franchise decisions.

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Story summary

Mary Loewen (Mama Stanley) announced she will stop supporting the Edmonton Oilers.
She announced the decision after Edmonton signed Alex Formenton to a one-year, $850,000 contract.
Alex Formenton, 26, was acquitted of sexual assault on 24 July 2025.
Loewen launched a Change.org petition that quickly gathered over 1,100 signatures.
GM Stan Bowman defended the signing, citing Formenton’s reinstatement by Hockey Canada.

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