*I went to Buffalo in 2008 and Chicago in 2009 and had great times at both but this BU/BC game at Fenway was definitely my favourite.
*College bands are fun and they are so, so, soooooo much better than the retread canned music that deafeningly thunders around NHL arenas. The bands have personality and they can be quite good ... all except for Northeastern's, who was out of tune and sucked.
*Having the game at night makes it colder, but a bit cooler. Seeing the snow coming down from the night sky is much better than the drab grey clouds that were the backdrops for the other outdoor games.
*Then again, at night there were no cool flyovers by helicopters, Super Hornets or stealth bombers.
*When players stopped hard, you could clearly see the snow kick up 10, 15 feet into the air. It was really quite trippy.
*The players weren't tripping much, literally; having the rink up for longer clearly paid off as there were no stoppages that I noticed due to the quality of the ice. It was a world away from the Buffalo experience where it felt like a football game with the constant stoppages.
*Vendors walked the crowd slinging soup and hot chocolate and they were making a killing as everyone sought to combat the chill.
*Unlike the pro game on the Fenway rink a week prior, this entire game had good action - not just a good ending. And the ticket cost was a quarter that of the NHL's Winter Classic. Talk about more bang for your buck ...
Ok, onto the photos. Walking up to the ballpark, I had to take a shot to prove that the Sawx actually won multiple championships ... once upon a time, before the 2004 Yankee meltdown allowed the curse to be kicked (after that, who cares? even the Boston fans I know weren't as impressed with '07):
When I finally got inside it was the first period of the girls' game. The crowd, if you can call it that, was sparse (to say the least) with a few hundred people around the stadium, more walking around and most not even arriving until just before the boys' game:
The view of the ice from my seat between the first and second periods of the Northeastern/UNH game:
I walked up to try to get into the seats above the Green Monster but security wasn't having it. The did let me hang over the railing to attempt to get a picture of it though ... and down on the ground the bands from all four participating schools were getting together to play for a bit between games:
Brian Leetch was the honorary captain of BC, Mike Eruzione was the honorary captain of BU and both teams had a pair of assistant captains - Travis Roy was one of BU's, which was a really classy move. That's Leetch walking to the rink below:
A giant American flag was draped over the Green Monster with troops lined up along it's base as the national anthem was sung. It's snowing and completely mind blowing:
Taken as two of the three BU netminders went down to the locker room between periods, you can see the awesome throwback sweaters and Kieran Millan's awesome pads (B on one, U on the other):
The snow kept coming and going throughout the game, at times getting heavy:
The final score after a really good hockey game:
And, finally, the post-game handshakes:
While I still think that having the Rangers in an outdoor game would be folly - they aren't particularly entertaining most of the time and, frankly, I want to go and enjoy the experience rather than yell at Brashear and Redden - there is no way in the world I would miss it, not after three straight successes under the open sky.
Frozen Fenway Friday: A Hockey Spectacle Like No Other
Frozen Fenway Friday is an annual event that captures the hearts of hockey fans and brings together the rich history of the sport with the iconic backdrop of Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts. In this article, we will delve into the magic of Frozen Fenway Friday, explore its significance in the world of hockey, and answer some frequently asked questions about this unique event.
The Frozen Fenway Experience
Every winter, Fenway Park, which is renowned for being the home of the Boston Red Sox, transforms into a winter wonderland for hockey enthusiasts. The event typically features a series of outdoor hockey games, with amateur and professional teams taking to the ice beneath the stadium's historic Green Monster.
The Ice Rink:
One of the most remarkable aspects of Frozen Fenway is the ice rink itself. The process of creating an NHL-standard ice surface in an outdoor stadium is a meticulous one. The rink is meticulously maintained to ensure it can withstand the varying winter conditions of New England.
The Historic Venue:
Fenway Park, with its towering left-field wall, the Green Monster, has been a hallowed ground for baseball since it opened in 1912. When hockey takes center stage, it's an opportunity for fans to see this iconic stadium in a new light.
The Game Lineup:
Frozen Fenway typically hosts a variety of hockey games, including college matchups, high school games, alumni games, and professional contests. These games showcase talent at various levels of the sport and offer a unique experience for players and fans alike.
Alumni Showdown:
One of the highlights of Frozen Fenway is often the alumni games, featuring former NHL and college players. These games evoke nostalgia and give fans a chance to see their favorite retired players back in action.
Fan Engagement:
The event is not just about the games; it's about the fan experience. From tailgating in the parking lots to enjoying concessions and merchandise, Frozen Fenway provides an electric atmosphere for hockey enthusiasts.
Significance in the Hockey World
Frozen Fenway holds a special place in the world of hockey for several reasons:
Tradition and History:
Hockey has a deep-rooted history in New England, and Fenway Park is an embodiment of that history. Playing hockey at Fenway Park honors that tradition and connects modern players to the legends of the past.
Exposure for College Hockey:
The event provides significant exposure for college hockey programs. College teams competing at Frozen Fenway gain national attention, and the games are often broadcast on television, reaching a broader audience.
NHL Outdoor Games:
The success of Frozen Fenway has contributed to the NHL's outdoor game series, which has become an annual spectacle. These games, often held in football and baseball stadiums, have captured the imagination of hockey fans worldwide.
Community Engagement:
Frozen Fenway is more than just a hockey event; it's a community celebration. Local residents, families, and fans come together to enjoy the sport and the unique experience of outdoor hockey.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How is the ice maintained at Fenway Park for Frozen Fenway?
Maintaining the ice at Fenway Park requires a combination of refrigeration systems and ice-making equipment. The process is carefully monitored to ensure optimal ice conditions.
2. Are there any safety concerns with playing hockey outdoors in winter conditions?
Safety is a top priority, and precautions are taken to protect players from extreme cold and ice conditions. The schedule can be adjusted if necessary to account for weather-related concerns.
3. Can fans attend Frozen Fenway games, and how can they get tickets?
Yes, fans can attend the games. Tickets are typically available through the participating teams' box offices, online ticketing platforms, and, in some cases, at Fenway Park.
4. Are there any notable moments from past Frozen Fenway events?
Yes, many memorable moments have occurred, from thrilling overtime goals to alumni players showcasing their skills once again. Each event adds to the rich history of Frozen Fenway.
5. How does Frozen Fenway contribute to the local community?
The event has a positive impact on the local economy, with fans frequenting nearby restaurants, hotels, and businesses. It also fosters a sense of community and pride among Bostonians.
Frozen Fenway Friday is a celebration of the sport of hockey, the rich history of Fenway Park, and the enduring spirit of fans who brave the cold to witness this unique spectacle. Whether you're a die-hard hockey fan or simply looking for a memorable experience, Frozen Fenway is an event like no other, where the magic of hockey meets the charm of an iconic ballpark.
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