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A classic NHL legacy is returning to Winnipeg next year and some local sports fans, including a former Jets goalie, say the outdoor hockey spectacle will bring a lot of positive attention to the city.
The league announced Saturday that Princess Auto Stadium will transform into an outdoor skating rink on Oct. 25, 2026, when the Winnipeg Jets take on the Montreal Canadiens in the next Tim Hortons NHL Legacy game.
Dan and Leanne Carlson said they attended an alumni game during the last Heritage Classic in their hometown back in 2016.
In the main event of that year's Heritage Classic, the Jets lost 3-0 to the Edmonton Oilers. However, in the alumni game, the former Jets players earned a 6–5 victory over the alumni Oilers.
Leanne Carlson said the outdoor game had a “really great atmosphere.”
“I think it's great for the city,” she said. “We have great fans here and a lot to do… I think this would be a good way to really showcase what we have to offer.”
Dan Carlson said they hope to attend the Heritage Classic at home again next year. And he expects many others will be tuning in from home, too, as the Habs “will draw a lot of attention” to the Heritage Classic.
“I think television will probably get a lot more attention,” he said.
When the Heritage Classic took over the city nearly a decade ago, it attracted 11,000 visitors and about $11.2 million in direct tourism spending, according to Economic Development Winnipeg Inc. report. for 2016.
Richard Martin said the Heritage Classic's return to Winnipeg is a “big deal.”
“I think we get a bad reputation for not being a place where people want to come and go to these big events. I think we proved them wrong with the recent Gray Cup and last year's playoff run with the Jets. It’s good for the city,” Martin said.
“It’s nice that the league recognizes that Winnipeg is a place for events like this,” he said.
Martin said he visited the Heritage Classic the last time it was in town. As a Blue Bombers season ticket holder, he hopes to offer special deals to Winnipeg soccer fans.
Former Jets goaltender Joe Daly said the outdoor game is “good for Winnipeg” and will bring hockey fans together to watch Winnipeg play Montreal.
“If the Hubs come, there’s no doubt that the building will be shaken,” Daly said.
“I think it's a great match,” he told CBC News on Saturday before the official announcement, but after the news was leaked on social media on Thursday.
Daley said it's always fun to watch and play outdoor hockey because it creates a great atmosphere and brings a sense of nostalgia to people who grew up skating outdoors.
“It makes a hockey event a reality instead of these multi-million dollar stadiums they play in now. Being outdoors is fantastic,” he said.
“Franchises value events like this, so I’m glad we’re doing it again and hope it will greatly benefit our organization.”
