COLUMBUS, OHIO – The Columbus Blue Jackets open their 13th National Hockey League season on Friday, October 4 when the Calgary Flames visit Ohio’s capital city for a 7 p.m. showdown at Nationwide Arena. Several exciting events and promotions are planned for this season-opening contest, including a special appearance by golf’s greatest champion.
Jack Nicklaus, the owner of 73 official PGA Tour victories, including a record 18 major championships, will perform the ceremonial puck drop prior to the game between the Jackets and Flames. A native of Upper Arlington, Mr. Nicklaus will be on hand at Nationwide Arena following the conclusion of Day Two of the 2013 Presidents Cup. This biennial international tournament is being staged at Nicklaus’ Muirfield Village Golf Club in Dublin, Ohio from October 3-6.
The Opening Night Plaza Party presented by Nationwide Insurance will be staged in the Arena District’s Front Street courtyard beginning at 4 p.m. Local band Shucking Bubba will be providing music at this festive gathering, which will also feature a pair of live pre-game broadcasts by FOX Sports Ohio and Sports Radio 97.1 The Fan.
All fans attending the game will receive a complimentary magnet schedule courtesy of Papa John’s. Arena doors will open at 6 p.m., with spectators being encouraged to take their seats by 6:50 p.m. for player introductions and a special video presentation. Throughout the evening, arena patrons will be able to have their photo taken with the National Hockey League’s famed Vezina Trophy, most recently won by Blue Jackets goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky.
Tickets to the home opener are currently available for purchase at BlueJackets.com , Ticketmaster.com, the Big Lots Box Office at Nationwide Arena, The OhioHealth Chiller Ice Rinks and all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers. Fans can purchase tickets by phone at (800) 745‐3000.
In addition to Opening Night, the Blue Jackets announced two other upcoming game promotions:
Saturday, Oct. 12 vs. Boston – Team Post-Game Autograph session presented by Nationwide Insurance; all fans in attendance receiving a 2013-14 schedule poster courtesy of FOX Sports Ohio; pre-game Arena District Tailgate Party.
Friday, Oct. 25 vs. Toronto –Hockey Fights Cancer Night presented by OhioHealth; all fans in attendance will receive free cheer cards courtesy of OhioHealth.
