Newcastle Vipers believe the future of the club lies in the hands of its supporters ahead of the 2009/10 season.

The club had announced it could quit the Elite League due to rising costs after exiting the 2008/09 play-offs.

In a statement the Vipers said: "We intend to launch 2009/2010 season tickets at the open fans meeting on the week commencing the 20 April.

"Subject to the level of support from fans, this will determine whether or not the club will start the season."

The Vipers' home venue for the new season is also in doubt, with a definite location yet to be confirmed, although the club has described the latest developments as "positive".

Meanwhile, subject to their future the Vipers have offered their support to new regulations set up for the 2009/10 Elite League season.

606: DEBATE Will the Vipers be back for 2009-10?

Clubs have agreed to a new quota of 10 import players per game and teams will meet three times home and away.

In addition the Knockout Cup will now cease to exist with a new Challenge Cup format to be announced at a later date.

The open meeting for supporters, hosted by owner Paul Ferone and player-coach Rob Wilson, is scheduled for the week commencing Monday, 20 April, with the exact date and venue yet to be confirmed.

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