The Honourable Vic Toews, Canada’s Minister of Public Safety and Regional Minister for Manitoba, today welcomed news that the National Hockey League (NHL) is returning to Winnipeg. The new franchise is expected to begin play in the 2011/12 season.
“Today’s announcement of the National Hockey League’s return to Winnipeg is an exciting one not only for Manitobans, but for all Canadians,” said Minister Toews. “Hockey is Canada’s greatest passion and Winnipeg has reclaimed its special part in our country’s national pastime.”
Manitoba’s previous franchise, the Winnipeg Jets, began play in the defunct World Hockey Association in 1972 and were absorbed into the NHL when the league folded in 1979. They would play at the Winnipeg Arena until 1996.
“Moments created by legendary Jets from Bobby Hull, Dale Hawerchuk, Thomas Steen to Teemu Selanne were inspirations to generations of young hockey players in our province,” said Minister Toews. “Today’s announcement that the National Hockey League is returning to Manitoba means new moments will be created that will inspire future ones.”
Current National Hockey League players born in Manitoba include members of the 2010 Stanley Cup Champion Chicago Blackhawks Jonathan Toews, Duncan Keith and Patrick Sharp.
“It’s an illustrious time for Canadian hockey,” concluded Minister Toews. “While Vancouver resumes its quest for the Stanley Cup tomorrow evening, Winnipeg celebrates its major victory tonight.”
