WINNIPEG

NHL allowing kids under 2 free entry to Heritage Classic

Sarolta Saskiw CTV Winnipeg
Published Tuesday, October 18, 2016 2:58PM CST Last Updated Tuesday, October 18, 2016 3:36PM CST

Children under two can enter free without a ticket, but must sit on an adults lap. (Simon Stones/CTV Winnipeg)

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The NHL announced Tuesday that it will be changing the league’s procedure for the Heritage Classic to include free admission to children under the age of two.

They said kids ages two and up will still need a ticket for entry into the event, which is being held at Winnipeg’s Investors Group Field. Children under two can enter free without a ticket, but must sit on an adults lap.

People who purchased tickets – through Winnipeg Jets, Edmonton Oilers, NHL or Ticketmaster – for kids under two years of age can get a refund on the day of the game, by bringing their ticket and child to the main box office at the field prior to the start of the event.

Manitoba couple, Clifford Anderson and Shalyn Meady, spoke to CTV News in September when they learned they needed to purchase a $400 ticket for their 6-month-old baby.

Anderson said they wanted the NHL to change their policy, so that families can enjoy outdoor events like the Heritage Classic with their young children.

After learning of the new seating changes, he said he’s happy the league is accommodating those people with young children and plans to enjoy watching the game with his family.

Manitoba Human Rights Commission said it is pleased with the NHL working “to review and change its policy, which is more in line with the Winnipeg Jet’s existing policy.”

The Commission said they are also satisfied the league was able to come to such a speedy resolution.

This new procedure will not only apply to the Heritage Classic, but the NHL said this goes for any special event games, including the All-Star game, Winter Classic and NHL Stadium series.

They explained that they are trying to adopt a standard that more closely mimics similar events. The NHL explained though that they will try to adhere to the new policy for these special event games, but that “it may not be possible or practical in a particular venue."