Long line-ups as fans try to get Leafs training camp tickets
Posted Sep 18, 2015 06:50:48 AM.
Last Updated Sep 18, 2015 08:20:41 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
The line-up for Maple Leafs training camp tickets began around 9 p.m. last night at Bedford’s BMO Centre as fans camped out overnight to try to get in to see the team’s on-ice sessions.
With only 400 tickets available to the public each day, it’s expected many fans may be disappointed this weekend.
Greg Smith has the honour of being the first person in that line, he told NEWS 95.7 he’s a huge Leafs fan and can’t afford a trip to see them in Ontario.
Second in line, Peter Smith, agreed.
“It’s cheaper than paying $250 at the ACC,” he said.
Tickets are $5, cash-only, with all proceeds being donated to KidSport Nova Scotia, a program of Sport Nova Scotia, and sales are limited to two per person.
Several other people indicated they may not be making it to work or school today, including Barb, standing in line with her son Austin, she told NEWS 95.7 she’s vying for the title of ‘mom of the year’.
Sean drove 4-hours from Rothesay, New Brunswick to stand in line.
“I worked from 3-11, then a gathered my son and my father-in-law,” he said. “It’s their birthday this weekend and we decided to come down for the weekend to see if we can learn some skills from the big boys.”
On-ice sessions will run Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The team held their media day Thursday, with head coach Mike Babcock reiterated his support for Dion Phaneuf by renaming him captain of the team.
Phaneuf tallied three goals and 29 points in 70 games in 2014-15. The veteran defenceman was often a target of criticism, which is something Babcock and general manager Lou Lamoriello are ready to help him more effectively handle for 2015-16.
Expectations are for the team as the Mike Babock-era officially begins.
The coach made it clear that he’s not interested in talking about the club’s past performance. It’s about restoring some glory to the franchise, and it’s going to require a lot of patience.
NEWS 95.7 will at the BMO Centre all weekend, with The Rick Howe Show broadcasting live from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. today.
With files from Sportsnet
