'Long overdue': Winnipeg Jets preseason game sees thousands of fans in attendance
WINNIPEG -
After 567 days, the Winnipeg Jets had their first home game with fans gathered by the thousands.
For the last year and a half, COVID-19 has kept doors closed to spectators, making last night’s highly anticipated preseason opener a memorable night for fans in attendance who've been longing for live hockey.
Fans were lined up around the block and could barely hold their anticipation ahead of the game against the Ottawa Senators.
"As soon as I found out we were going to have fans, I was so, so, so, so, pumped,” said one Jets fan before Sunday’s game.
“I can’t wait to get in there. All my favourite players are playing. I can’t wait.”
For the first time since March of 2020, Jets tickets were available to the general public with no capacity restrictions on attendance.
It was a moment that could not come soon enough for many fans, with some even travelling from around the province to be there.
While the fans got an overtime game with a former Wheat King scoring for the visiting team, the Jets eventually fell to Ottawa in overtime by a score of 3-2.
Nevertheless, it was all celebration and gratitude after the game.
"People were great, that's what Manitobans are all about…[it] just brings the best out in everyone. Long overdue," said a fan after the game.
Though safety measures are still in place to help fight the spread of COVID-19, it did not hinder the experience of those in attendance who are looking forward to sharing more moments like these with fellow fans.
CTV News Winnipeg previously reported that people need to be fully vaccinated to attend Winnipeg Jets games. Children who are under 12 can attend if they’re accompanied by a fully immunized person that they live with or are related to.
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