Let's Go ... To Buffa-Lo!

Well, its official, the NHL will be playing outdoors again, this time in frosty Buffalo where the Sabres will play the Pittsburgh Penguins on New Years. Tickets go on sale tomorrow morning at 10am and I think I will buy a pair. I'm not so sure I want to freeze my ass off, but I think it will be worth it. It isn't every day that NHL teams play outside. For those who want to stay warm, NBC will be broadcasting it and it should get lousy ratings up against the college football bowl games that are traditionally held on New Years. Typical.

In the promotional materials released by the league, they listed the occasions that they have ... and while the Rangers playing the town's team in Mystery, Alaska wasn't included, their exhibition game against the L.A. Kings in Las Vegas of all places was. Now I had no idea thaty they did that, it happened back in 1991. The New York Times tried to charge money for the article so I only have the lead to share:

"Sure Wayne Gretzky scored a goal, and for that matter the Los Angeles Kings beat the Rangers, 5-2, before a sellout crowd of more than 13,000 spectators, but for all the hockey derring-do Friday night, the exhibition game seemed more an engineering feat than an athletic achievement."

Anyone have more info? Feel free to drop it in the comments.

And just for the curious, the other recent outdoor hockey games (not necessarily NHL) were:

Red Square
Moscow, Russia
December 9, 2006
Team World vs. Russia
Attendance: 2,000

NHL Heritage Classic
Edmonton, Alberta
November 22, 2003
Montreal Canadiens vs. Edmonton Oilers
Attendance: 57,167

Frozen Tundra Classic
Green Bay, Wisconsin
February 11, 2006
Ohio State vs. Wisconsin
Attendance: 40,890

East Lansing, Michigan
October 6, 2001
Michigan vs. Michigan State
Attendance: 74,554

NHL Pre-Season Exhibition
Las Vegas, Nevada
September 28, 1991
New York Rangers vs. Los Angeles Kings
Attendance: 13,000

 "Let's Go... To Buffa-Lo! Exploring Buffalo's Hockey Heritage and Culture"

Buffalo, New York, is a city with a rich and storied hockey history. From the passionate fan base to iconic moments in the sport's history, Buffalo has made a significant impact on the world of hockey. In this article, we will take a journey to Buffa-Lo, exploring the city's hockey heritage, the Buffalo Sabres, and the vibrant culture that surrounds the sport. We'll also answer some frequently asked questions to provide a comprehensive look at this hockey-loving city.

Part I: A Hockey Hotbed

The Buffalo Sabres

The Buffalo Sabres are the city's beloved NHL team. Founded in 1970, the Sabres have been a source of pride for Buffalonians and have built a dedicated fan base known for their unwavering support.

Key Players and Moments

Buffalo has been home to some legendary players, including Gilbert Perreault, Dominik Hasek, and Pat LaFontaine. Iconic moments like the 'May Day' goal by Brad May in 1993 still resonate with fans.

Part II: The Fans

Passionate Fan Base

Buffalo is renowned for its passionate hockey fans. The atmosphere at KeyBank Center, especially during home games, is electric. The fans, known as the "Sabres Mafia," take their support seriously.

Tailgating Tradition

Sabres fans have a unique tradition of tailgating before games, similar to football fans. This pre-game celebration brings fans together for food, drinks, and camaraderie.

Part III: Hockey Culture in Buffalo

Youth Hockey

Buffalo has a thriving youth hockey scene, producing talented players who have gone on to make a mark in the NHL. Youth leagues and programs are essential in nurturing future hockey stars.

Amateur and College Hockey

The city is also home to the Canisius College Golden Griffins and Niagara University Purple Eagles, both of which have competitive college hockey teams that attract local support.

Part IV: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Let's address some frequently asked questions about Buffa-Lo and its hockey culture:

1. Why is the Buffalo Sabres' fan base so passionate?

The passion of the Sabres' fan base can be attributed to the team's deep roots in the community, the city's love for hockey, and the enduring hope for a championship, despite years of ups and downs.

2. What are some iconic moments in Buffalo Sabres history?

Iconic moments include the team's inaugural season in 1970, the 'May Day' goal in 1993, and Dominik Hasek's incredible goaltending performances in the late 1990s.

3. Is Buffalo a hockey town year-round?

Yes, Buffalo is a hockey town year-round. Even during the offseason, the city's hockey culture remains strong, with youth leagues, amateur tournaments, and fan events.

Buffa-Lo is more than just a city; it's a hockey hub with a deep and passionate connection to the sport. From the Buffalo Sabres' memorable moments to the fervor of the fans, hockey is ingrained in the culture of this vibrant city. Whether you're tailgating outside KeyBank Center or watching youth hockey at local rinks, the love for the game is evident. Buffalo's hockey heritage is a testament to the enduring power of the sport to bring communities together and create lasting memories. So, the next time you're in Buffa-Lo, don't forget to join in the hockey celebration and immerse yourself in the city's rich hockey culture.