We all remember the incident a week ago in Chicago where Adam Pardy was knocked into the glass, the glass fell backwards on some fans, and a very drunk guy took the opportunity to steal Pardy's helmet while his significant other made it rain beer on Pardy's head?
Any who, a local Winnipeg radio station DJ, Dave Wheeler, decided to turn the Blackhawks' visit to the Jets tonight into a #HelmetPardy. What does that entail? Why, wearing your beer league helmets to the game, of course! Ha ha ha passive aggressive mocking of drunk people and the Chicago Blackhawks, all in the name of good fun. The MTS Centre is home of some of the loudest heckling chants in the NHL. Jets fans enjoy trolling much in the same manner that Thrashers fans loved yelling "YOU SUCK" at goalies who didn't – it makes them (and made us) feel better.
It's just fun, right? Wrong, according to the Jets. Mark Chipman released this statement distancing the club from the stunt:
“Earlier this week, we learned of a media-promoted stunt to have Winnipeg Jets fans wear helmets to the game on Thursday, November 21st versus the Chicago Blackhawks.I would like to let our fans know we in no way endorse this idea and in fact and wish to personally advise that we will not permit fans to wear such headgear at tomorrow’s game.The Chicago Blackhawks organization, for whom we hold a great deal of respect, conducted themselves with the highest degree of professionalism in the wake of the unfortunate incident on November 6th. We immediately received apologies from Team President & Governor John McDonough & General Manager Stan Bowman. The Blackhawks organization have also personally expressed their gratitude to Winnipeg Jets defenceman Adam Pardy for the way in which he handled himself in a very difficult situation. As well, the particular individual involved that night has extended a sincere apology to Adam and our organization. He is extremely remorseful and has made an unnecessary yet very meaningful donation to the Winnipeg Jets True North Foundation.I sincerely believe we have the best fans in the entire National Hockey League. Their passion for the game is unequaled. However, this is about professionalism and respect for our great game and for the NHL. These are principles we attempt to follow in all aspects of how we play and present the game of hockey. 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.”
