Winnipeg Jets fans descend on Anaheim for Game 2 against Ducks
More than 1,000 Jets fans once again descended on the Honda Center to cheer on the Winnipeg Jets in Game 2 against the Ducks in Anaheim.
Despite a 4-2 loss Thursday, fans committed to keep cheering for the visiting Jets.
Some fans spared no expense getting to the city of Disneyland and Mickey Mouse. Julien Lafleche said he and a group of friends flew into Palm Springs from Winnipeg and took a limo all the way to Anaheim.
"We've basically taken over the Honda Center," said Lafleche.
Carl Huetter estimated his trip will cost him about $1,500, but he said it's worth every penny.
"You've got to support the Jets," said Huetter. "It was one phone call. My buddy called and said 'what are you doing on Thursday night?' Watching the Jet game. 'Well, do you want to go to a Jet game?' I said, you betcha!"
Randy Sessan, Huetter's friend, said you can't put a price tag on the experience of watching your hometown team in the playoffs.
"Between the airfare and hotel, that's about $1,300 each and tickets were $70 each. But, being here is priceless!"
Derrick Wiebe posted on Facebook that he was planning to fly to Anaheim to watch the Winnipeg Jets face off against the Ducks. Then, he suddenly became part of a unique family reunion.
When Wiebe's old high school friend Jeremy Remillard saw the post, he contacted and asked him to do a favour.
"He said, 'do you mind taking a jersey out to my sister for me?' I said, 'this is fantastic, I'd love to do this."
Little did Wiebe know he would be bringing her more than a jersey.
Caroline Dufault has been living in California since 2005. The former Winnipegger grew up watching the Winnipeg Jets — especially number 13, Teemu Selanne, her favourite player.
But, Dufault never knew her brother growing up. Her father left the family when she was young, remarried and had two boys. She was only reunited with Remillard 15 years ago.
So, armed with only a photo of Dufault, Wiebe found her at a restaurant across from the Honda Center before Saturday night's game.
"I just looked for the blonde hair and tapped her on the back and said, 'Caroline?'"
Default said she was overcome with emotion when she saw Wiebe pull the jersey out.
"The Jets could lose by 10 and I would have still had the best night ever," said Default. "It's an original jersey, it's Selanne's jersey, and now I have the best of everything on my back, thanks to my brother."
