I don't think I'm too off base saying that, in Winnipeg, 2011 was the year of the Jets. Starting with the announcement back in May that the NHL was returning to the city, the frenzy and buzz in this city has been unlike anything I have ever seen.
Everything from the announcement, to the jersey unveiling, to the home opener and beyond has been an event. This morale of this city seems to be at an all time high and the return of the NHL is a big part of that. I stood in the mob at Portage and Main on the day of the announcement and there was such a feeling of camaraderie among total strangers as we all celebrated what we had been waiting 15 years for.
Every game at the MTS Centre also feels like an event. Teemu Selanne's return was the most emotional sporting event I have ever attended and was something I will never forget.
Tonight I will ring in the new year at the MTS Centre with the Jets as they take on the Leafs. Being that this is a new years game and the first time the Leafs have visited Winnipeg in 15 years, The atmosphere tonight will once again be electric.
So happy New Years Winnipeg. It's been one hell of a year.
