Everything you need to know about the Crowchild Classic
It’s January which means it’s time for the annual Crowchild Classic! The hockey doubleheader featuring both Cougars teams goes down at the Scotiabank Saddledome on Wednesday, Jan. 24.
Thousands will pack the ‘Dome to watch the men’s and women’s hockey teams take on the University of Calgary Dinos. If it’s your first-ever Crowchild Classic, you should be prepared for an intense rivalry, a roaring crowd and a few Calvin the Cougar sightings.
The hockey matchup is one of many meetings between MRU and U of C, which are both situated along Crowchild Trail in different quadrants of the city. Cougars basketball, soccer and volleyball teams also face off against our rivals in red during their respective seasons; the university that wins the most games across all sports wins ‘The Medal,’ a 68-kilogram cast-iron City of Calgary manhole cover (not to mention bragging rights).
If you are planning to attend the games, here’s what you need to know:
1. The important info
The Saddledome doors will open at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 24. Puck drop is at 4:30 p.m. $5 tickets, which you need to gain admission, go on sale on Jan. 8 at noon. Once you are at the game, you are in for the night as the Saddledome has a “no re-entry” policy. Make sure to leave your backpack at home as those also aren’t allowed in.
From popcorn to Pocket Dawgs there will be plenty of food options on the concourse but remember that the Saddledome is cashless if you are planning on buying a snack. Enjoy happy-hour prices on food from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Limited parking will be available for $10-20 per vehicle. If you aren’t driving make sure to plan a safe ride to and from the game or plan to take public transit.
2. Get your tickets
As mentioned above, you will need a ticket to get in. This marquee matchup is always a sell out so use this link to score your $5 ticket (maximum of eight tickets per order). Ticket sales are split between the two schools and go to student wellness initiatives.
3. Break out the blue
Calvin and members of the men’s and women’s hockey teams will help get your school spirit going at a pep rally on Main Street on Tuesday, Jan. 23 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Cougars Campus Store has special Cougars gear on sale now so be sure to pick something up to show your MRU pride. If you don’t make it there before the game, plan to hit the concourse for thundersticks, stickers and temporary tattoos. There will also be a limited number of MRU noisemakers and stadium horns available on game day on a first-come, first-served basis for fans who really want to make some noise.
Show off your game day by using #WearetheCougars, #CrowchildClassic, #CougNation and #BleedBlue on all of your social posts. Rock your Cougars gear or whatever blue you have (and definitely avoid red).
The Mount Royal Fan zones will be sections 101-108, 121, 122, 201-211, 227 and 228. Sections 120 and 226 are also Mount Royal territory and are family-friendly zones. If you have any trouble finding where to go, ask one of the Saddledome ushers.
The games are going to be available on a pay-per-view live stream/on-demand at canadawest.tv.
4. Tuition giveaway
One lucky student will be leaving the game with tuition for the 2024/2025 school year (worth $5,000). Practice your pong skills and make sure to fill out this form (seriously, you can’t win if you don’t fill it out).
5. Witness dreams come true
Playing on Saddledome ice is no small feat. In fact, it will be a lifelong dream come true for many players, made possible thanks to support from the Calgary Flames and the Flames Foundation. The huge crowd and Jumbotron in an NHL facility make for an exciting night for players and fans alike.
6. Record-breaking crowds
The men’s and women’s hockey showdown at the Saddledome is easily the Classic’s most popular event, setting an all-time U SPORTS attendance record in 2016 of 12,859. Last year, 11,083 attended to make up a raucous and rowdy crowd, with each side representing in their team’s colours.
7. Be supportive and respectful
Yes, the MRU vs. U of C rivalry is long-standing and fierce but we want everyone to have a safe, fun time including rival fans, Saddledome staff and event volunteers. Students are expected to follow Mount Royal’s Student Code of Conduct. Go Cougars!
8. Calling all cubs!
Have any young hockey players in your life who want to skate alongside the Cougars? We’re looking for two youth skaters to take part in a pregame skate. Skaters will be randomly chosen and notified via email. Sign up online.