Local pubs, sports fans excited to have hockey back

Aug 1, 2020 | 4:23 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — August Long weekend was a time for many to go out and enjoy the nice weather with their families. For others, a chance to get a sense of normalcy with the NHL starting back and local pubs getting the chance to welcome fans once again.

It had been nearly five months since the NHL shut down its regular season but now, playoff hockey is alive and well. And local sports pubs are chomping at the bit to get things going.

“It was a little slower [prior to sports coming back]. Everyone was kinda blue before with no sports, said Sarah Wium, a bartender at Westwood Pub. “We’re expecting the pace to pick up a little bit, we’ve got our big screen on. I think people are pretty excited to have it back.”

Saturday was the first of many days filled with hockey, baseball, basketball, and more to be showcased. Even early in the afternoon, locals coming out to enjoy some food and drink, and a bit of normalcy by doing what for many was a regular event to take a load off and enjoy some sports.

“It’s kinda nice just to have a sense of reality back. It’s a little weird having [hockey] in the summer but it’s comforting at the same time,” said one man enjoying the afternoon of hockey. Another added, “It’s nice being able to unwind a little bit rather than just sit at home.”

Places in town will continue to implement social distancing. Things like reduced capacity and tables spaced further apart.