Edmonton Oilers autograph day sees early lineups at WEM

CTV News Edmonton's Brenden Purdy was at West Edmonton Mall where the Oilers were meeting fans and signing autographs before heading down to Seattle.

Fans clamouring for a shot at an Edmonton Oilers autograph have already set up camp at West Edmonton Mall (WEM) hours ahead of the free event.

Earlier this month, OEG Sports & Entertainment announced the full team roster would be set up in varying spots in the mall to sign items brought by fans or team-issued cards – within reason, of course, as only one autograph is allowed per fan.

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The frenzy began as early as 4:45 a.m. for some like Joel Lawrence, who was there to see Zach Hyman.

“Took the day off today just to come here,” he said. “I told them I’m on vacation, and they know about it.”

Doors opened at 6 a.m. for early birds who were there to stake out their spot at the autograph station they wanted. Brittany Hawkins, another fan, told CTV News Edmonton Connor McDavid’s lineup had around 60 to 70 people waiting first thing in the morning.

A group of fans came to support goalie duo Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard in the wake of less-than-enthusiastic press about the tandem’s bottom rankings in individual statistics.

“I have a real soft spot for goalies in general. It’s a tough position,” said Alix Kemp, who was in line early to see both. She was there to get her jersey signed.

Tammy Delorey, also in the Skinner lineup, took it a step further.

“They call me Mama Skinner,” said the superfan. “Matter of fact, as far as I’m concerned, the Skinner family is my royalty.”

Autograph sessions begin at 6 p.m. and run until 8 p.m. A map of player locations can be found online and WEM is reminding fans that there will be no posed photographs or spot-saving allowed.