The Winnipeg Jets are taking a proactive approach to discourage fans from wearing hockey helmets to Thursday’s Chicago Blackhawks game at MTS Centre.
The media-promoted stunt — dubbed #HelmetPardy on social media — comes after a November 6 incident in which Jets’ defenceman Adam Pardy was checked into the boards and through the glass at the United Center. Hardy then had his helmet ripped off by a fan, had a beer poured on him and his stick taken away.
Jets chairman and co-owner Mark Chipman on Wednesday said such headwear will not be permitted at tomorrow’s game. Chipman also commended Pardy’s professionalism in the incident, saying it’s exactly how the Jets organization would have wanted him to handle it.
“Adam Pardy exemplified these characteristics and I am confident Winnipeg Jets fans will display that same respect and professionalism this Thursday by refraining from participating in this stunt and not wearing helmets to tomorrow’s game,” Chipman siad.
The fan involved in the incident — identified in media reports as Chicago car dealer Kevin Mize — has since issued an apology to Pardy and the Jets, and made a donation to the Winnipeg Jets True North Foundation.
