The Winnipeg Jets: A Story of Resilience, Passion, and Hockey Heritage

The Winnipeg Jets represent more than just a hockey team—they embody the resilience, passion, and unwavering spirit of a city that refused to let go of its hockey dreams. From their groundbreaking origins in the World Hockey Association to their triumphant return to the NHL, the Jets' story is one of determination, community support, and the deep love that Winnipeggers have for the game. As the team prepares to host the 2026 Heritage Classic at Princess Auto Stadium, we explore the rich history that has made the Jets one of hockey's most compelling franchises.

The Birth of a Legend: The WHA Years (1972-1979)

When the World Hockey Association (WHA) was formed in 1972, Winnipeg was chosen as one of the founding cities. The original Jets quickly established themselves as a powerhouse, making a bold move that would change professional hockey forever: they signed NHL superstar Bobby Hull to a groundbreaking contract worth $1 million over 10 years, plus a $1 million signing bonus. This move not only legitimized the WHA but also made Hull the face of the Winnipeg franchise.

But the Jets' innovation didn't stop there. Under the leadership of coach Rudy Pilous and later Bobby Kromm, the team became pioneers in recruiting European talent. Swedish stars Anders Hedberg and Ulf Nilsson joined Hull to form the legendary "Hot Line," a trio that dominated the league and revolutionized how North American hockey was played. Their success demonstrated that European players could not only compete but excel at the highest levels of professional hockey.

The Jets' WHA tenure was nothing short of spectacular. They won three Avco World Trophies (the WHA's championship) in 1976, 1978, and 1979, and made five finals appearances during the league's seven seasons. This period established Winnipeg as a hockey city and created a passionate fanbase that would prove unshakeable in the decades to come.

Entering the NHL: Challenges and Perseverance (1979-1996)

In 1979, the WHA merged with the NHL, and the Jets were among four teams that made the transition. However, the merger came with significant challenges. The NHL imposed restrictions that forced the Jets to give up many of their best players, including Hedberg and Nilsson, who were claimed by the New York Rangers. Despite these setbacks, the Jets entered the NHL with determination and a loyal fanbase.

Over the next 15 seasons, the Jets made 11 playoff appearances, but they struggled to advance deep into the postseason. They often found themselves competing against powerhouse teams like the Edmonton Oilers (led by Wayne Gretzky) and the Calgary Flames, making playoff success difficult to achieve. Despite these challenges, the team developed memorable players like Dale Hawerchuk, who became the face of the franchise during the 1980s.

However, financial difficulties and the economic realities of operating in a smaller market began to take their toll. The Canadian dollar's weakness, combined with rising player salaries and the challenges of Winnipeg's smaller market size, made it increasingly difficult for the team to remain competitive. In 1996, after years of financial struggles, the franchise relocated to Phoenix, Arizona, where they became the Coyotes.

The loss of the Jets was devastating for Winnipeg. For 15 years, the city that had embraced hockey with such passion was left without an NHL team, though the memory of the Jets and the hope for their return never faded.

The Return: True North and the Revival (2011-Present)

Hockey returned to Winnipeg in 2011, but the story of the Jets' revival actually began years earlier. True North Sports & Entertainment, led by Mark Chipman and David Thomson, had been working behind the scenes to bring the NHL back to Winnipeg. When the Atlanta Thrashers became available, True North seized the opportunity, purchasing the franchise and relocating it to Winnipeg.

The announcement that the Jets were returning sent shockwaves of joy through the city. Season tickets sold out in minutes, and the passion that had been dormant for 15 years erupted with incredible intensity. The team chose to honor the original Jets by reviving the name, logo, and colors, creating a powerful connection between the past and present.

Since their return, the Jets have called Canada Life Centre home—a state-of-the-art arena in downtown Winnipeg that provides an electric atmosphere for regular-season and playoff games. The team has experienced significant milestones at their home rink. In the 2017-18 season, they reached the Western Conference Finals, their deepest playoff run since returning to the NHL. The team has developed a reputation for strong drafting and player development, with stars like Mark Scheifele, Kyle Connor, and Connor Hellebuyck becoming franchise cornerstones.

The 2024-25 season marked a historic achievement: the Jets finished with a franchise-best record of 56-22-4, earning the Presidents' Trophy for the league's best regular-season record. This accomplishment demonstrated how far the team had come since their return and solidified their status as one of the NHL's elite franchises.

Experiencing Jets Games at Canada Life Centre

For the majority of the season, the Winnipeg Jets play their home games at Canada Life Centre, a state-of-the-art arena located in the heart of downtown Winnipeg. The arena, which opened in 2004 and was originally known as MTS Centre, has become one of the NHL's most electric venues, known for its passionate fanbase and incredible atmosphere.

Attending a Jets game at Canada Life Centre is an experience like no other. The arena seats over 15,000 fans, and the energy in the building is palpable from the moment you walk through the doors. The "Whiteout" playoff tradition, where fans wear white to create an intimidating atmosphere, has become legendary across the NHL. Even during regular-season games, the crowd's enthusiasm and support for the team create an unforgettable experience.

Getting to Canada Life Centre

Canada Life Centre is conveniently located in downtown Winnipeg, making it easily accessible from throughout the city. The arena is situated at 300 Portage Avenue, right in the heart of the Exchange District, surrounded by restaurants, bars, and entertainment options that make it perfect for a complete game-day experience.

For visitors staying at our Airbnb in Crescentwood, getting to Canada Life Centre is remarkably easy. The arena is just a short 10-minute drive or approximately 15 minutes by public transit from our location. This proximity makes it incredibly convenient to attend Jets games without worrying about long commutes or parking challenges. You can easily grab dinner at one of the many restaurants in the Corydon area before heading downtown for the game, or explore the Exchange District's vibrant dining scene after the final buzzer.

The Game-Day Experience

On game days, the area around Canada Life Centre comes alive with energy. Fans gather at nearby restaurants and bars before the game, creating a festive atmosphere that extends throughout the Exchange District. The arena itself features excellent sightlines from every seat, modern amenities, and a variety of food and beverage options that showcase local Winnipeg flavours.

Whether you're watching the Jets take on their Central Division rivals like the Colorado Avalanche or Dallas Stars, or experiencing the intensity of a playoff game, Canada Life Centre delivers an authentic NHL experience. The arena's design ensures that even the upper-level seats provide excellent views of the action, and the passionate Winnipeg crowd makes every game feel important.

The 2026 Heritage Classic: A Return to Outdoor Hockey

The NHL is bringing back the Heritage Classic next season, and Winnipeg will once again be at the center of hockey history. On October 25, 2026, the Winnipeg Jets will host the Montreal Canadiens in the 2026 Tim Hortons NHL Heritage Classic at Princess Auto Stadium, home of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League.

While the Jets normally play their regular-season games at Canada Life Centre in downtown Winnipeg, the Heritage Classic is an outdoor event that requires a larger, open-air venue. Princess Auto Stadium, the Blue Bombers' football stadium, provides the perfect setting for this special outdoor hockey experience, just as it did in 2016 when Winnipeg first hosted the Heritage Classic.

This will be the eighth Heritage Classic game and the 46th NHL outdoor regular-season game overall. It marks the Jets' second time hosting the Heritage Classic at Princess Auto Stadium; their first hosting experience came on October 23, 2016, when they lost 3-0 to the Edmonton Oilers in front of 33,240 passionate fans.

For the Jets, this will be their third outdoor game, all in the Heritage Classic series. They hold a 1-1-0 record in outdoor games, having lost to the Oilers in 2016 before securing a memorable 2-1 overtime victory against the Calgary Flames at Mosaic Stadium in Regina, Saskatchewan, on October 26, 2019.

The Montreal Canadiens, one of hockey's most storied franchises, will be playing their first outdoor game since 2017 and their fifth overall (2-2-0). The Canadiens were part of the very first Heritage Classic on November 22, 2003, when they defeated the Oilers 4-3 at Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton—the first NHL regular-season outdoor game ever played.

Why Princess Auto Stadium is Perfect for the Heritage Classic

Princess Auto Stadium, home of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (CFL), may be a football stadium, but its location and design make it an ideal venue for hosting major outdoor hockey events like the Heritage Classic. While the Jets play their regular NHL games at Canada Life Centre in downtown Winnipeg, outdoor games require a larger, open-air venue—and Princess Auto Stadium delivers perfectly. Situated in the heart of Winnipeg, the stadium offers unparalleled accessibility that enhances the entire fan experience.

Central Location and Easy Access

Princess Auto Stadium is strategically located in Winnipeg's Polo Park area, one of the city's most accessible neighborhoods. This central location means that fans from all corners of Winnipeg and surrounding areas can easily reach the venue. Whether you're staying in downtown Winnipeg, the Exchange District, or neighborhoods like Crescentwood (where our Airbnb is located), getting to the stadium is straightforward and convenient.

The stadium's proximity to major transportation routes, including Route 90 (Kenaston Boulevard) and Portage Avenue, ensures that traffic flow is manageable even for large events. For visitors staying in Winnipeg, this means you can easily combine a trip to the Heritage Classic with exploring other attractions throughout the city.

Public Transit Connectivity

Winnipeg Transit provides excellent service to Princess Auto Stadium, with multiple bus routes serving the Polo Park area. This makes it easy for fans who prefer not to drive, and it's particularly convenient for visitors staying in downtown hotels or accommodations throughout the city. The transit accessibility means that the Heritage Classic is truly accessible to all fans, regardless of where they're staying in Winnipeg.

Proximity to Amenities

The stadium's location near Polo Park Shopping Centre and surrounding restaurants means that fans have plenty of options for pre-game dining, shopping, and entertainment. This creates a complete game-day experience that extends beyond just the hockey game itself. Visitors can make a full day of the Heritage Classic, enjoying Winnipeg's amenities before and after the game.

Parking and Infrastructure

Princess Auto Stadium has extensive parking facilities that can accommodate the large crowds expected for the Heritage Classic. The stadium's infrastructure has been proven capable of handling major events, as demonstrated during the 2016 Heritage Classic when 33,240 fans attended. The venue's experience with large-scale events ensures that logistics run smoothly, from parking to concessions to crowd management.

The Outdoor Experience

Perhaps most importantly, Princess Auto Stadium's open-air design provides the authentic outdoor hockey experience that makes the Heritage Classic so special. The venue's layout allows fans to experience hockey as it was meant to be played—under the open sky, with the elements adding to the atmosphere. This connection to hockey's outdoor roots is what makes the Heritage Classic unique, and Princess Auto Stadium delivers this experience perfectly.

Tim Hortons and the Heritage Classic Partnership

Tim Hortons returns as the title sponsor of the NHL Heritage Classic, marking the seventh time the iconic Canadian brand has sponsored the event. As part of the announcement of the 2026 game, Tim Hortons and the NHL announced a new multiyear deal of their Canadian partnership that includes Tim Hortons maintaining its status as the Official Coffee and Coffee Based Beverages, Tea, Hot Chocolate, Breakfast and Baked Goods of the NHL in Canada.

This partnership extends beyond just the Heritage Classic. Tim Hortons supports the full hockey spectrum, from Timbits minor hockey to junior hockey, and the NHL's seven Canadian member clubs. The brand has enhanced the NHL fan experience through its partnership at other tentpole League events and programming, including NHL Street, the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, the 2024 Rogers NHL All-Star, and the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off.

For more than 10 years, Tim Hortons has engaged hockey fans coast to coast with one of the most successful and iconic sponsorship programs in the Canadian marketplace—Tim Hortons NHL Hockey Cards. Since 2020, Tim Hortons has also leveraged the NHL partnership to connect with Canadian hockey fans through a free-to-play, pick-'em style hockey game in their mobile app for Tims Rewards Members called the Tims NHL Hockey Challenge.

The Jets' Outdoor Game History

The Jets have a special relationship with outdoor hockey. Their first outdoor game came in 2016 at Princess Auto Stadium, where they hosted the Edmonton Oilers. Though the Jets lost 3-0, the event was a massive success, drawing 33,240 fans and demonstrating Winnipeg's passion for hockey in all its forms.

Three years later, the Jets traveled to Regina, Saskatchewan, to face the Calgary Flames at Mosaic Stadium. In a thrilling game that went to overtime, the Jets emerged victorious with a 2-1 win, giving them their first outdoor game victory. This game showcased the Jets' ability to perform in the unique outdoor environment and added another memorable chapter to the team's history.

The 2026 Heritage Classic will be the Jets' third outdoor game, and hosting it at Princess Auto Stadium brings the story full circle. The venue that hosted their first outdoor game will now host what promises to be an even more spectacular event, with the Jets having established themselves as one of the NHL's premier franchises.

What Makes the Heritage Classic Special

The Heritage Classic represents a return to hockey's roots—the outdoor game that was played on frozen ponds and community rinks long before professional arenas existed. For fans, it's an opportunity to experience hockey in its purest form, with the elements adding to the atmosphere and creating memories that last a lifetime.

For Winnipeg, hosting the Heritage Classic is particularly meaningful. It's a celebration of the city's hockey heritage, a recognition of the Jets' success, and a testament to the passion that Winnipeggers have for the game. The event brings the community together in a way that few other sporting events can, creating a shared experience that strengthens the bond between the team and its fans.

The Legacy Continues

The Winnipeg Jets' story is far from over. From their groundbreaking WHA origins to their triumphant NHL return, the team has demonstrated resilience, innovation, and an unbreakable connection with their community. The 2026 Heritage Classic at Princess Auto Stadium represents another chapter in this remarkable story—a celebration of hockey heritage, community spirit, and the enduring passion that makes Winnipeg one of hockey's great cities.

As the Jets continue to build on their legacy, events like the Heritage Classic serve as reminders of what makes this franchise special: the unwavering support of their fans, the deep connection to hockey history, and the commitment to excellence that has defined the team from its earliest days. Whether you're a lifelong Jets fan or a visitor discovering Winnipeg's hockey culture for the first time, the 2026 Heritage Classic promises to be an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of what makes the Jets and Winnipeg so special.

The story of the Winnipeg Jets is a story of resilience, passion, and the unbreakable bond between a team and its city. As they prepare to host the Heritage Classic once again, the Jets continue to write new chapters in a history that has already become legendary. For hockey fans everywhere, and especially for Winnipeggers, the Jets represent more than just a team—they represent the heart and soul of a city that lives and breathes hockey.