By François Biber

FanFest announced for MasterCard Memorial Cup

Apr 18, 2013 | 11:51 AM

If the MasterCard Memorial Cup needed any more hype, today the host committee announced special events in hopes of making this year the biggest year for major junior hockey in Canada.

“Our committee wanted to create a great social element for the event,” said Scott Ford, director of marketing for PotashCorp FanFest.

“Our FanFest will feature tons of interactive activities for fans and it will offer more than hockey over the course of the MasterCard Memorial Cup.”

PotashCorp FanFest will be housed at the Case New Holland Training Centre on Marquis Drive. The 80,000-square-foot facility will be a place for fans to gather, eat and take in some classic rock and country performers such as Loverboy, Honeymoon Suite and Men Without Shame.

Ford said FanFest is all about celebrating the game of hockey, adding a handful of ex-NHLers have already confirmed their appearance at the tournament.

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“The one's that we have listed right now include Wendel Clark, Brent Ashton, Bryan Trottier and Bernie Federko and the list is growing,” said Ford.

Former hockey stars will host and share their stories at the nightly Hot Stove Lounge.

FanFest will also feature more than 15 interactive games, giving fans the chance to be a colour-commentator, and have their picture taken with various trophies including the Canada Cup and the World Cup of Hockey.

Fans who have already secured tickets for the MasterCard Memorial Cup will also have access to FanFest, however Cabaret and evening show tickets are about $30 extra and can be purchased online via Ticketmaster beginning Friday.

On top of the FanFest area, the organizing committee will also have a mini Hockey Hall of Fame at Midtown Plaza.

“This will be a showcase of Canadian junior hockey,” said Ford, adding exhibits include the history of the Saskatoon Blades plus junior hockey features on Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux.

Pre-game ceremonies will be held before each game featuring either a hockey legend or other NHL alumni.

Mr. Hockey, Gordie Howe will be dropping the puck at the May 21 game.

news@panow.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow