Whiteout ready to return as Jets land in playoffs

Winnipeg Jets fans gather at the intersection of Portage Avenue and Main Street in Winnipeg Thursday, April 9, 2015 to celebrate the Winnipeg Jets clinching a NHL playoff spot. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/David Lipnowski)

Winnipeg police said about 600 people poured out onto the city’s main intersection Thursday night for a party at Portage and Main after the Jets clinched a playoff spot for the first time since the team relocated to Winnipeg four years ago.

Officers had the streets blocked off in the area to traffic, allowing fans to celebrate.

Const. Eric Hofley said there were no arrests and no reports of any injuries.

“While exuberant, people behaved themselves overall,” said Const. Hofley.

“We understand the excitement that’s going on and the people who are collectively getting behind the Jets and they’re going to be out there showing that excitement but, as long as they’re doing that in a respectful manner, we’re just there to monitor.”

Police officers already staff Winnipeg Jets home games to help with security but Const. Hofley said additional police resources may be required for the playoffs, for both home and away games.

“Win or lose people are still excited and certainly after that first game people are going to be out on the streets and we’ll be deploying resources as deemed necessary.”

“It’ll be more of a wait-and-see sort of thing. Certainly officers will be available,” said Const. Hofley. “Should something occur, ensure that pedestrians and motorists are safe and that everyone has an enjoyable time.”

Then, there's the whiteout. The playoff tradition of every fan wearing white in the stands started back in the 1980s and last happened in Winnipeg in 1996.

The new Jets are bringing it back and fans are eager to get on board.

Jets merchandise was flying off the shelves on Friday as fans lined up to buy white shirts and jerseys at the Jets Store at the MTS Centre.