Brandon, MB (CKLQ) – With just days remaining before the start of the 2017/2018 season staff around the Keystone Centre are busy putting the finishing touches on the arena.
Behind the scenes, members of the Brandon Wheat Kings front office are prepping for what is arguably one of the biggest nights of the season.
One year ago, over 5200+ fans packed into Westman Place to watch the Wheat Kings raise a trio of banners to the rafters. With the opening ceremonies underway, hundreds of fans were stuck on the concourse waiting to purchase their tickets, something the Wheat Kings don’t want to see happen again.
“We saw a trend last year in Brandon… People are notoriously late buyers and unfortunately, lots of people missed the opening ceremonies because of that,” said Director of Game Day Operations Chris Falko. “Don’t wait until you get here and have to wait in line. You can buy your tickets on your phone, computer or tablet. Get your tickets ahead of time!”
The fans who were in the building for the home opener last year saw history in the making…twice. First, the Wheat Kings raised their first WHL Championship banner since 1996, and then the game was called off in the 2nd period due to fog.
With all that hullabaloo in the rearview mirror, the Wheat Kings are planning another fantastic season kickoff.
Fans are invited to a pre-game tailgate party in the MNP Hall that kicks off at 5:30. The Hockey House will include a meal, a bouncy castle, face painting and sign making.
At 7:20 p.m. the lights will go out, and the show will begin with a brand new intro video on the big screen.
“The home opener is very special as we do the full player introductions, and really start the year off on the right foot,” added Falko.
Another bonus for fans is the debut of the new white jerseys. Although they will be the primary home jersey in 2017/2018, they won’t be worn full-time at Westman Place until after the Christmas break. WHL regulations say the home team will wear dark jerseys in the first half of the season.
“This is the only chance fans will get to see them before the break. They look awesome and fans won’t want to miss the debut,” said Falko.
Q-Country will broadcast the player introductions live on air, the pre-game show will hit the air at 7:00.
For tickets to the home opener, stop by the Keystone Centre Box Office or purchase them online HERE
