The Columbus Blue Jackets are excited for the return of Kids Takeover, presented by Bob Evans Farms, on Saturday, March 9 when the Jackets host the Nashville Predator at 12:30 p.m. Kids Takeover offers children the opportunity to step into the shoes of their favorite Blue Jackets personalities and get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to work a game. A CBJ sticker sheet will be given away to 5,000 kids in attendance.
All afternoon, fans can enjoy entertainment provided by the School of Rock Bands from Dublin and Gahanna. The bands are comprised of 14 kids between the ages of 12 to 17. The band will be located on the terrace at the McConnell Street Entrance before puck drop, during intermissions and post-game.
Throughout the game, kids will take on various roles throughout the evening serving as Kid Coach, Anthem Singer, Cannon Crew, PA Announcer, Jr. Jackets Insider, In-Arena Host, and more.
This role of Kid Coach will be filled by eight-year-old Riley Sallet, a current participant in the Blue Jackets Foundation’s 2023 Class of Pediatric Cancer Heroes. Sallet was diagnosed with Stage 3 Wilms Tumor, also known as nephroblastoma, a rare kidney cancer most common among children.
Performing the Star-Spangled Banner, 14-year-old Lila Urbanic will return for her third performance at a Blue Jackets game. Urbanic performed at last year’s Kids Takeover and Hockey Fights Cancer Night on November 15, 2022. Additionally, nine-year-old Leo Szabrak and his six-year-old sister, Ruby, will serve as members of the Cannon Crew.
Fans of all ages can join in on the fun with activities throughout the concourse including face painting, balloon artists, and more.
The Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation will host special fundraising activities throughout the night to support the health and wellness of central Ohio youth. The game’s 50/50 Raffle (bluejackets5050.com), presented by Kemba Financial Credit Union, will open at 9 a.m. on March 9 and close after the second intermission. Exclusive game mystery pucks and kid themed items are also available in the auction and for purchase through the Foundation by texting CBJAUCTION to 76278 to participate.
Families are encouraged to purchase the Dispatch Family Value Pack, presented by ABC 6 and FOX 28, which includes a ticket to the game, Chiller Skate Pass, and new this season, the choice of a value meal, featuring Pepsi products, hot dog, hamburger, or chicken fingers with rotating sides of chips, popcorn or fries. To learn more, visit www.BlueJackets.com/family. Space is limited.
Saturday only, the Blue Line Team Store is offering 20 percent off all youth headwear and apparel at its Nationwide Arena and Polaris Fashion Place locations, as well as online at www.TheBlueLineOnline.com.
The Blue Jackets return to action on Thursday when they host the Edmonton Oilers. Game time from Nationwide Arena is 7 p.m. ET. Live coverage on Bally Sports Ohio begins with the Blue Jackets Live pre-game show starting at 6:30 p.m.
The game can also be heard on the Blue Jackets Radio Network, including Sports Radio 97.1 The Fan in Columbus, and online at BlueJackets.com.
