Memorial Cup committee overwhelmed by volunteer response

It took just 34 days for Halifax's Memorial Cup Host Organizing Committee to round up 450 volunteers for next year's big event.

Committee chair Mat Harris said he's amazed by the response.

“I've run a number of events in this city, I've never seen the volunteer compliment come together that quickly,” he told NEWS 95.7's The Sheldon MacLeod Show. “It really speaks to how much of a hockey town this city is.”

There's several job options for those who signed up, including drivers, greeters, security and team hosts.

Harris said, at this point, they're not accepting anymore applications, but that could change.

“We're going to go back and ensure we know exactly how many volunteers we need,” he explained. “If we need additional volunteers we'll open it back up, but we've suspended it for now because of the overwhelming response.”

The committee aims to have Halifax host the best Memorial Cup ever staged, both on and off the ice.

“Argyle Street will be closed off in front of the new convention centre. There will be a stage set up and be a concert before every single game,” he said. “The screens will be left with the games playing after the concert so that those who are not fortunate enough to have a ticket inside the building will be able to watch the game in the downtown area.”

In addition, a fan zone will be set up inside the convention centre, with Hockey Hall of Fame exhibits and family-friendly games.

“It's really an area that parents can bring their kids and everybody can celebrate the sport of hockey.”

The deadline for Mooseheads season ticket members and 15-Game Pack holders to receive priority pricing for the Memorial Cup is Thursday.

Tickets go on sale to the general public on Dec. 5. 

Halifax will host the Memorial Cup from May 17-26, 2019.