Wild, Twins, Lynx, United will offer COVID vaccine for free at upcoming games
The Minnesota Wild, Minnesota Twins, Minnesota Lynx and Minnesota United FC will all be offering free COVID-19 vaccines to attendees at upcoming games.
The governor's office announced the new vaccination in-stadium opportunities Thursday as part of its "Roll Up Your Sleeves, Minnesota Fans" efforts.
“We are always looking for creative ways to get vaccines directly to Minnesotans. This partnership is just another example of that work – and a shining example of these teams’ ongoing commitment to their fans and our communities," said Gov. Tim Walz in the announcement.
The Wild, Lynx and United will, to this point, be offering vaccinations at one game each, with the Twins slated to participate over the course of three games. Here's the schedule:
- Wild: Saturday, May 22, Xcel Energy Center (that's Game 4 of their playoff series against Las Vegas)
- Twins: Monday-Wednesday, May 24-26, Target Field
- Lynx: Saturday, June 12, Target Center
- United: Wednesday, June 23, Allianz Field
The vaccines are free, no appointment needed - anyone can simply walk up and receive one. In addition, attendees won't need to provide an ID or health insurance card to get the shot.
Each team is expected to provide more details on specifics in the days ahead.
A spokesperson for the governor's office said the Twins will be offering the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine. The Wild and Loons will be doing first doses of the Pfizer vaccine, and recipients will schedule their second dose while on site.
The governor has repeatedly made clear he believes increasing the vaccination rate is one of the keys to ending the pandemic. About 62% of those 16 and up have received at least one shot of the vaccine, as of Thursday's figures. Walz and health officials have previously said the goal is, at minimum, 70%.
Hoping to drive further interest, Walz Wednesday even floated the idea of offering incentives.
