WINNIPEG — City police will return to hockey arenas this season to keep an eye on how people are behaving in the stands.
This is the second year for the CHECK-ing In program. It’s a partnership between Hockey Winnipeg and Winnipeg Police Service.
READ MORE: Winnipeg police start monitoring minor hockey games
Officers attended 40 games last season, covering a variety of ages and divisions, “There were a few people that we spoke to, certainly nothing anywhere near the criminal charge level or removing anyone from the arena, just you know, speaking to someone after the game, ” says Cst. Brad Sparrow.
Despite their presence, there were several high profile violent incidents including an on-ice brawl that involved players, fans, and referees at Southdale Community Centre last February.
In a YouTube video posted, parents could be heard screaming as referees work to break up a fight, with one referee going down to the ice with one of the young players. A man then leaves the team’s bench and jumps on the referee, and others come in to break up the battle.
WATCH: YouTube video shows minor hockey brawl at Winnipeg arena
Two 12-year-old hockey players were arrested Pine Falls, Man., for assault with a weapon in connection to that fight. Then in March, another on-ice brawl made headlines.
Two teenage girls from Lake Manitoba First Nation were charged after the melee during a championship game in Stonewall, Man. A 14-year-old girl fired a puck at three referees and a 13-year-old hit two referees at the bantam game, RCMP allege. Both pleaded guilty to assault charges in July.
READ MORE: Teen girls charged with assault after on-ice melee
Reaction to the CHECK-ing in program from parents has been positive.
“I think it’s an excellent idea. I don’t think it hurts to remind people often whats appropriate behaviour and what’s good behaviour to model for your children,” says Anna Ryan who has two young children playing minor hockey.
Another mother of two Stephanie Byron says ensuring kids continue to enjoy the game is paramount, “Any kind of security they can provide to make sure the game stays fun would be a benefit for sure.”
Police also say being in local arenas gives them the chance to connect with the community about issues they may be concerned about. “Even though we’re here originally for the hockey, certainly other things are branched off in terms of other things police would help citizens with,” says Sparrow.
Police plan to stop in at another 40 games this season.
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