‘A day that we look forward to’: Winnipeg Jets visit kids at rehab centre, hospital

The Winnipeg Jets took time out of their busy schedule to visit fans at the Rehabilitation Centre for Children.

The Winnipeg Jets took a moment away from the ice to meet some of their youngest fans on Monday.

Several members of the team visited kids receiving care at the Rehabilitation Centre for Children, which helps children with physical and developmental challenges.

Players, including Josh Morrissey, Connor Hellebuyck, Cole Perfetti, Vladislav Namestnikov and Mark Scheifele, signed autographs and posed for photos with kids and their families.

Morrissey said the visit is an annual event that the team enjoys.

“It’s always a day that we look forward to, getting to interact with some kids and their families and spread some holiday cheer,” he said.

Morrissey added being around the kids helps change his outlook.

“It’s easy as a hockey player to get caught up in the wins and losses and the tough days of the NHL season,” he said. “But I think when you come and get to interact with some kids and families that are oftentimes going through life-changing and very difficult situations and they have a smile on their face, they’re optimistic, and they’re just looking forward to the little things in life - I think that puts wins and losses into perspective.”

Children’s Rehabilitation Foundation executive director Jane Kidd-Hantscher said the kids look forward to the day just as much as the players do.

“It’s such an uplifting moment for the kids to meet their hometown heroes,” she said.

The Jets also paid a visit to the Winnipeg Children’s Hospital on Monday.