Edmonton Oilers could demand proof of vaccination from fans this season
Posted August 14, 2021 12:13 pm.
Last Updated August 14, 2021 1:17 pm.
EDMONTON (CityNews) ─ If you want to see Connor McDavid zipping from one end of the ice to the other in person this season, you may need to be vaccinated.
The Edmonton Oilers are considering only allowing hockey fans who are vaccinated into Rogers Place.
It’s something the Winnipeg Jets recently implemented for all home games at Canada Life Centre this season. The Jets’ parent company, True North Sports and Entertainment, said season ticket holders had made it clear that was their preference.
The Oilers told CityNews they are exploring all possibilities to get fans back in the building while consulting with the league, venues and province. The team says after hosting one of the two Stanley Cup playoff bubbles last summer, they’re prepared for anything.
On Friday, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman tweeted about an NHL memo that was requiring staff who have regular interactions with team personnel − including players − to be vaccinated.
https://twitter.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1426270240619520002
Edmontonians were split on the idea of requiring proof of vaccination to see the Oilers play in person.
“I just see that as an invasion of privacy,” said one.
“I think protecting yourself and protecting others is the least that you can do,” said another.
Added a third: “(The Oilers) are operating a business and they have liability concerns so I’m sure they’re worried about that. I respect what they want and if they want me to stay away then I will.”
The Edmonton Oilers kick off their season Oct. 13 against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Place.
