The Steinbach Pistons have released a statement regarding the updated arena policies that will be in place ahead of the team's first exhibition game Friday night at the TG Smith Centre.

"As per Manitoba Public Health’s latest announcement, all spectators and volunteers must show proof of COVID-19 vaccination upon entry to the building." Jamie Roy, sales and marketing director for the team explained. "Further to that, MJHL staff, players, and officials are also all required to be fully vaccinated as well."

Roy adds "prior to having your ticket scanned, our volunteers will be scanning your QR codes/vaccination cards as you enter the doors. Children who are not eligible to be vaccinated may attend games, permitted they are with a guardian who is fully vaccinated. Additionally, face masks are also required to be worn within the facility at all times."

While some believe the provincial mandates regarding sporting events are too much, Roy says the alternative is not an option. "If you think about it, we got cut off in the playoff run of 2019-2020 and then followed that up by getting a short, almost non-existent season last year. We're just so excited about getting back on the ice. If we don't do what we're required to do, the alternative is to close our doors. Doing that, we lose a bunch of players, our coaches miss out on developing these players in hockey and in life. For us, it's a no-brainer to follow this. We just want to play. We want to play for our fans and for our players."

The Pistons have an exhibition game Friday night at home as they take on the Winkler Flyers, 7:30 pm puck drop.