Calgary, AB – The Western Hockey League and Calgary Hitmen Hockey Club announced today they will host a WHL outdoor game against the Regina Pats on February 21, 2011 at McMahon Stadium.

The game coincides with Family Day Monday and will be played the day after the National Hockey League’s Heritage Classic set for February 20th between the Calgary Flames and Montreal Canadiens.

“The glorious opportunity presented by the National Hockey League Heritage Classic outdoor game provides a unique and unforgettable experience for not only our loyal Hitmen fans, but fans across the WHL,” said Hitmen President, CEO and Governor Ken King.

“We are extremely excited, honored and feel very privileged that the National Hockey League, the Calgary Flames, the Calgary Hitmen and the WHL have chosen the Regina Pats to be a part of this historic event, said Pats President Brent Parker. “With the Regina Pats tradition and our historic ties to the Montreal Canadiens organization we felt that it was a natural fit for our organization to take part when we were presented this opportunity. We are truly looking forward to February and what will be a special day for our players and all of our organization”.

"The WHL is very excited to be part of the 2011 NHL Heritage Classic festivities this February in Calgary,” commented WHL Commissioner Ron Robison. "WHL fans will have the opportunity to witness this historic outdoor event which will be capped off with a regular season game featuring the defending WHL Champion Calgary Hitmen and the storied Regina Pats.”

Complete details on the Hitmen / Pats outdoor game including ticket information will be announced at a later date.