Local

Winnipeg Free Press - PRINT EDITION

Prime minister falls in love with Jets jersey, signs up for waiting list

By: Geoff Kirbyson

Posted: 09/10/2011 1:00 AM | Comments: 0 (including replies)

Stephen Harper (right) models the Jets' away jersey alongside Winnipeg South MP Rod Bruinooge. It's expected the prime minister will be in town for the opener against Montreal on Oct. 9.

THE highest-ranking hockey fan in the country is on the Winnipeg Jets jersey waiting list.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper tried on Mark Stuart's No. 5 away sweater in Ottawa on Thursday and liked it so much, he's going to get one himself.

Winnipeg South MP Rod Bruinooge borrowed the jersey from team officials after this week's much-hyped unveiling.

"I mentioned to the Jets that I was meeting with the prime minister and how much he loved the logo and they let me borrow it. He's not only a hockey fan but he likes to honour the military whenever he can," Bruinooge said.

He said he hid the sweater in his bag so he wouldn't get mobbed when he got to the airport and even though he was tempted, he opted not to wear it on the plane. "It would have been a bathrobe on me," he said with a laugh.

After Bruinooge returned the jersey to the team on Friday, he signed up both Harper and himself on the jersey waiting list.

It is widely believed that Harper will attend the Jets home opener against the Montreal Canadiens on Oct. 9.

geoff.kirbyson@freepress.mb.ca

Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition September 10, 2011 A3

You can comment on most stories on winnipegfreepress.com. You can also agree or disagree with other comments. All you need to do is register and/or login and you can join the conversation and give your feedback.

The Winnipeg Free Press does not necessarily endorse any of the views posted. By submitting your comment, you agree to our Terms and Conditions. These terms were revised effective April 16, 2010; View the changes. New to commenting? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions.