Amelia Bearheart, YXS and Cougars volunteer Dave Henley and Rowdy Cat are all psyched for the start of the WHL playoffs Friday – photo 250News

Prince George, B.C. – WHL playoff excitement has taken flight at YXS.

Prince George Airport mascot Amelia Bearheart showed her enthusiasm for the start of round one tomorrow night by posing with Cougars mascot Rowdy Cat and YXS and Cougar volunteer Dave Henley this afternoon in the arrivals gate.

Henley of course dyed his hair Cougars black and red yesterday (see previous story here) in anticipation of a long playoff run.

“We thought this was a great way to kick-off and show off our support for the playoffs,” said Lindsay Cotter, manager of marketing and communications at YXS.

Andy Beesley, business vice-president with the Cougars, says excitement about the team has also translated into strong ticket sales for games one and two versus the visiting Portland Winterhawks.

“We’re seeing it all over the place, from the comments people are making to us to the long lineups that have been lining up at the Ticketmaster box office.”

He adds the best way to avoid the long lineups is to purchase tickets online.

“Yeah, we really try to encourage that as much as possible. I know some people prefer to do it in person at the box office but the easiest way of doing it is to go to ticketmaster.ca and buy your tickets and skip the lineups.”

Beesley says you can also guarantee yourself a seat by putting down a deposit on seasons tickets next year.

To top off all the fun tomorrow the Cougars will be hosting their final Mega Jackpot Night with all proceeds going to Big Brothers Big Sisters Prince George.

The first 2,000 adult fans will receive $10 worth of free 50/50 tickets. Doors open at noon and Save-On-Foods will be on hand hosting a barbecue.