‘Probably the most important’: Fan fest welcomes dedicated hockey fans

Dedicated hockey fans showed up in to celebrate at the Winnipeg Jets Fan Fest.

More than 5,000 fans gathered at hockey for all centre to attend the Fan Fast on Saturday, marking the official kickoff to the 2025-26 season for the Winnipeg Jets and Manitoba Moose.

The free event featured open training camp sessions, player and coach questions and answers, interactive games, alumni autographs, and discounted merchandise.

“It’s the start of the season for our players, but also for our fans,” said Kory Harnum, manager of community relations at True North Sports and Entertainment. “It’s all trending in the right direction.”

Forward Vladislav Namestnikov said the camp feels tougher this year. “Everyone’s back to business … we’re not afraid to talk about winning the cup. That’s the goal,” he added.

Left winger Colby Barlow said the big difference between last year and this year is his feeling. “I just feel way better out there. More confident. My body went through a big change this summer,” Barlow described. “That’s just easier mentally and physically when you’re out there moving and trying to do all the things they’re teaching you.”

Alemar Regala brought his two children to the event, and he said the day is the most important for him.

“We want our kids to be just as good fans as we are. We just want them to enjoy just as much as we do,” Regala said.

Regala added that he always has the same expectations.

“We’re going to go all the way and I always believe that – no matter who tells me different.

“Just keep playing as hard as you’ve been playing. You have this entire city behind you guys, and we love you guys. I’ll never change no matter the outcome.”