WINNIPEG — Could the World Junior Hockey Championship be coming to Winnipeg in 2019?
Hockey Canada is currently searching for a city to host the prestigious international tournament. Winnipeg last hosted the World Juniors in 1999 and Hockey Manitoba is game on bringing it back.
“We’re always interested in the opportunity to bring a showcase event like that to Manitoba,” said executive director Peter Woods. “There’s a major thirst for hockey in Winnipeg.”
One of the things Hockey Manitoba would need to put in a successful bid is the commitment of MTS Centre. True North Sports & Entertainment, the owners of the downtown arena, has not ruled out the idea of hosting the 2019 World Juniors but say it’s something they haven’t really pursued or considered at this point.
“They hold the trump card obviously,” said Woods. “If there’s an interest by True North, certainly the would approach us to see if there’s an interest among the governing body.”
The bottom line could also bench Hockey Manitoba’s bid. Winnipeg guaranteed $1 million back in 1999. The last few Canadian hosts have guaranteed a $20-million return.
Applications must be submitted to Hockey Canada by May 31.
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