Crowchild Classic returns on Jan. 31

This Friday, Jan. 31, UCalgary students, staff, faculty and hockey fans alike gear up to take over the Scotiabank Saddledome for one of the most anticipated Dinos events of the year: the Crowchild Classic.

Now in its 11^th year, the Crowchild Classic will see the University of Calgary Dinos and the Mount Royal University Cougars go head-to-head in the annual hockey doubleheader. In addition to hockey, both schools compete against each other throughout varying seasons in soccer, basketball and volleyball, and the winner of the most games gets to take home the big prize: a 68kg City of Calgary manhole cover medal. 

Get ready for the action

It’s sure to be an exciting night, so we want to make sure you have the best experience possible. From what to wear, to how to get to the venue, to information on incredible contests and prizes, here’s what you need to know.

Tickets

Tickets for this event are available to students, staff/faculty and the public for $5, and can only be purchased online. Use promo code DINOS and remember that there is a maximum of eight tickets per order! Tickets are mandatory to enter the ‘Dome, with a strict no re-entry policy. 

Doors at the Saddledome will open at 3:30 p.m. The puck drops at 4:30 p.m. for women's hockey, followed by  men’s hockey at 7:30 p.m.

Getting there

The Crowchild Classic is held in the best hockey facility in the city, the Scotiabank Saddledome (fondly nicknamed the 'Dome.) 

• Transit: The ‘Dome is located in downtown Calgary and easily accessible by transit, especially if you’ll be coming from the university. Take the Red Line to Victoria Park/Stampede station, and follow the signs for the Saddledome (about a five-minute walk).
• Parking: Event parking and accessible parking is available on the grounds at Stampede Lot 2 and 3, or Saddledome Lot A. Check out the Saddledome’s website for more information on getting there. Parking can fill up quickly, and you can also find street parking in the surrounding area. 

Once inside, head on over to the Dinos’ fan section (211-227 and 108-121) and gather with your fellow fans. Accessible seating is also available in section 113-116. If you need extra fuel for the intensity of the games, you can purchase snacks and drinks with a debit/credit card, as the Saddledome is a cashless centre. Although seating is general admission, make sure to arrive with plenty of time to spare to get the best seats and view of the ice!

Gear up and dress the part 

It's a scientific fact that Dinos perform best when they see red, so make sure to wear UCalgary colours of red and gold, and avoid blue (that's MRU). 

If you don’t have Dinos gear, don't fret! You can drop by the Bookstore the day of the game for 20% off select gear. Or, you can stop by the Dinos pop-up shop on the concourse, or perhaps snag some of the limited  giveaways of Dinos thunder sticks and cheer towels. 

It’s also important to note that backpacks are not permitted at the Scotiabank Saddledome, so bring only what you can carry or put in a small bag.

Free tuition prize

Does free tuition sound nice to you? Make sure to bring the loudest and most enthusiastic energy to the games! Four MRU and UCalgary super-fans will get a chance to compete for free tuition during the intermission of the second game, with two lucky students (one from each school) nabbing the big prize. Who knew hockey could be so rewarding?

Be a good fan

The Crowchild Classic is the perfect venue to show your UCalgary pride, students are encouraged to cheer on the Dinos, create and bring signs, and take selfies with Rex. However, it’s important to remain respectful and abide by the UCalgary student code of conduct and remain courteous spectators.