A buzz filled the Southeast Event Centre Sunday afternoon as the Manitoba Moose brought professional hockey to Southeastern Manitoba for the first time. Fans were treated to an exciting Blue vs. White intrasquad game, which ended with Team White skating away with a 4-1 victory.
The event, which drew an impressive crowd of 1,042, was a unique opportunity for local fans to see high-calibre hockey up close. The excitement was tangible as players took to the ice, showcasing the speed and skill of the professional game.
On-Ice Action
Shots were even throughout the game, but Team White was able to capitalize, with goals coming from a balanced attack. Kevin Conley, Jack O’Leary, Isaak Phillips, and Ethan Frisch all found the back of the net. Phillip Di Giuseppe scored Team Blue’s lone goal.
For Moose forward Kevin Conley, a native of Wausau, WI, the experience was a memorable one. “It is my first time ever being out here, so it was a pretty cool experience,” Conley said. “We had a good turnout, so it was a lot of fun.”
Talent on Display
Fans witnessed an impressive level of talent on the ice. The lineup featured 16 players currently under contract with the Winnipeg Jets, and 17 who suited up for pre-season games with the Jets this year. Seven players in the game have NHL experience, while eight are Winnipeg Jets draft picks—including two first-round selections and five second-round picks. The depth and skill on display highlighted the development and future stars within the Jets organization.
A First-Class Experience
The Manitoba Moose organization was impressed with its first visit to the Southeast Event Centre. Team leadership praised the facility itself, the professionalism of the local staff, and the overall game day production. The positive experience extended off the ice, as Moose staff and several players toured the Steinbach Pistons’ locker room and were amazed by the facilities.
Brad Andrews, the Moose’s Senior Director of Business & Hockey Operations, applauded the event. “I thought it was a really great experience,” he commented. “Obviously, a beautiful facility, and it’s fun to bring a game like this outside of the city limits and give back to communities beyond just Winnipeg.”
When asked about the possibility of returning, Andrews was optimistic. “It was a great crowd, but also just in terms of the game presentation and the professionalism of the Steinbach group, I think we’d definitely be looking to do something similar again,” he stated.
The successful afternoon showcased not only professional hockey talent but also the community’s strong support and first-rate facilities. The positive reception and mutual praise between the organizations hint at a promising future for similar events, strengthening the bond between the professional team and hockey fans across the province.
Charity Event
Proceeds from the game will benefit the Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue. The final amount raised will be determined in the coming days as the Steinbach Pistons organization compiles the numbers. The Pistons were excited to partner with the Manitoba Moose to strengthen their relationship with True North Entertainment, while also supporting the community.
Photos taken by Patrick Friesen and Scott Stroh of Ice Wave Media.
