Source: Getty Images
Hailing from Winnipeg, the Winnipeg Jets are a prominent professional ice hockey team competing in the National Hockey League (NHL). They proudly represent the Central Division in the Western Conference. Notably, the team was founded in 1999 as the Atlanta Thrashers before relocating to Winnipeg in 2011. Since their relocation to Winnipeg, the team has made the playoffs seven times. However, they haven't been able gain any significant achievements till date. Notable players to have played for the team include Kyle Connor, Andrew Ladd, Blake Wheeler, Adam Lowry, Connor Hellebuyck and David Gustafsson. They are owned by True North Sports & Entertainment while Rick Bowness serves as head coach of the team and Kevin Cheveldayoff holds the position of the General Manager of the team.
Notably, the team also has minor league affiliations with the Manitoba Moose of the America Hockey League (AHL) and the Norfolk Admirals in the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL).
What is the name of the Winnipeg Jets Stadium?
The name of the Winnipeg Jets' stadium is Canada Life Centre. The Canada Life Centre opened its doors in 2004 and has since become the home venue for the Winnipeg Jets and their AHL affliliate, Manitoba Moose. The stadium is situated at 300 Portage Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3C 5S4, Canada and has a seating capacity of 15,294. Moreover, Canada Life Centre is the smallest arena in the NHL.
Canada Life Centre offers various amenities to enhance the fan experience. It provides a wide variety of food options, including standard arena fare, healthy choices, and upscale offerings. Alcoholic beverages are also available at most concession stands, with a wider selection of brews at designated areas like Hops and Shots and the Budweiser Red Light Bar. The intimate size of Canada Life Centre contributes to its loud and energetic atmosphere. The arena features an impressive scoreboard, with a unique Jet logo that extends out before games and recedes during gameplay. The concourses are spacious enough to accommodate crowds, although the stadium's small footprint means fewer entrance gates.
Situated in downtown Winnipeg, Canada Life Centre offers easy access to various attractions, including The Forks, the Manitoba Legislative Building, and the Exchange District National Historic Site. The area is well-connected by public transportation, making it convenient for visitors to explore the city's museums, galleries, and sports activities.
Winnipeg Jets Stadium History
Canada Life Centre, formerly MTS Centre, stands as a beacon of Winnipeg's sporting heritage and community pride. Since its opening in 2004, the arena has served as a vibrant hub for sports enthusiasts, hosting events ranging from NHL hockey games to concerts and cultural performances. The monumental 440,000 square feet building was completed in 2004 for $133.5 million.
The arena originally known as the "True North Centre" underwent several name changes due to sponsorship agreements. Initially named MTS Centre, it was rebranded as Bell MTS Place in 2017 after Bell Canada acquired MTS. Subsequently, in 2021, the naming rights were sold to Canada Life Assurance Company, resulting in its current name, Canada Life Centre. Its previous associations with telecom companies have led to its affectionate nickname, "The Phone Booth."
Winnipeg Jets Stadium Capacity
The capacity of the Canada Life Centre, home to the Winnipeg Jets, is 15,321 for hockey games and 16,345 for concerts. With its unique design and modern amenities, Canada Life Centre offers an electrifying atmosphere for sports events and live performances.
Winnipeg Jets Stadium Seating Chart
The best seats at Canada Life Centre are typically center ice, located in sections 105-106 and 118-119. These sections offer excellent views of the action, though choose seats above row 10 to avoid obstruction from the plexiglass. Other good options include sections 205-206 and 218-219, providing center ice views without the risk of obstruction. Additionally, sections 304-307 offer broader views of the game, along with wider and more comfortable seating.
The following is the seating arrangement created for the fans in the Canada Life Centre for the games:
Source: eventticketscenter
What is the parking cost at Winnipeg Jets Stadium?
The parking cost at Canada Life Centre for Winnipeg Jets events varies depending on the specific game or event date. However, ticket prices for parking generally start at $64.
The following is the parking map of the Canada Life Centre :
Source: CBC
Winnipeg Jets Stadium Notable Events
The Canada Life Centre, formerly the MTS Centre, has hosted various notable events across different sports and entertainment genres. In ice hockey, it has been the home venue for the Manitoba Moose of the American Hockey League (AHL) and the Winnipeg Jets of the National Hockey League (NHL). The AHL's Manitoba Moose was the arena's initial tenant from 2004 to 2011, and upon the return of the Moose in 2015, the arena became the first to host both an NHL team and its AHL affiliate.
The Canada Life Centre has been utilized for international hockey events, such as the 2007 IIHF Women's World Championship, and other sports and entertainment events. It has hosted curling events like the Tim Hortons Brier and Grand Slam of Curling's Canadian Open. Furthermore, combat sports events like UFC 161, and professional wrestling broadcasts, including WWE Raw and SmackDown have also taken place here. Notably, in 2023, the arena hosted All Elite Wrestling (AEW) for a live broadcast of Dynamite and a taping of Rampage.