You know what that means?
We have them right where we want them! The Blueshirts can blow everyone away with a solid season and it begins tomorrow night. Conditions are primed for a great start when they drop the puck in Buffalo. Why? Six reasons:
1- The Sabres will already be tired, playing the second half of a back-to-back. They have to hope that the crowd will be enough to rejuvenate their players after what is certain to be a tough opening night in Ottawa. Sure they are well conditioned pro athletes but a real game is a real game and they haven't played any real games. And if the Sens expose any deficiencies in the Sabres play, former Ranger defenseman Lindy Ruff won't have the time to make any corrections.2- No Chris Drury and likely no Tim Kennedy. A little harsh but that means two less distractions on the ice, two guys who can't get caught up in their old stomping grounds and the people that fill them. Dru went pointless in all four matchups against the Sabres last season and Kennedy has got to be pissed to be tossed aside like a dead hooker.
3- Derek Boogaard has to redeem himself. After going without a fight and embarrassing the hell out of himself and the Ranger franchise with his amateurish cup check in the final preseason game, the Boogey man can make all of that disappear by keeping Pat Kaleta in line.
4- No one will be surprised by mighty midget Tyler Ennis. Ennis had a goal and two assists when he faced the Rangers in April but now the boys will be aware of what the kid is capable of. The oompa loompa is dangerous, plain and simple.
5- Thomas Vanek is banged up with a bad neck. Vanek, a two-time 40-goal scorer, got hurt during the playoffs last spring and the Sabres fell apart against the Bruins. Vanek played three games of the six and had two goals and an assist - that is how good he is. Sadly he has never been able to pick them up on his back; to steal the old ad line, Is This The Year? While looking through the numbers, I came across another interesting stat: since the Sabres beat the Rangers in the playoffs in '07 - when Tim Connolly had four assists in six games - the former Islander has only put up two points (both assists) in nine games against us.6- The Rangers have won their opening night for of the last five years, falling last season in Pittsburgh (before rattling off seven straight wins). The Blueshirts are better teasers than the women at the strip clubs around the city - if history is any indication they will raise our hopes before setting them on fire and stomping them like a burning bad of poo.
Let's Go Rangers!
Starting Up, Upstate To Be Exact: The Birth of a New Hockey Era
When it comes to hockey in New York State, most people immediately think of the New York Rangers, Buffalo Sabres, or the storied history of the "Miracle on Ice" in Lake Placid. However, there's a fresh chapter in the state's hockey story that's been quietly unfolding in the upstate region. With the birth of the Utica Comets, a new era of hockey was born, bringing excitement and a renewed passion for the sport to the heart of upstate New York.
The Utica Comets: A Hockey Rebirth
The Utica Comets, an American Hockey League (AHL) team, made their debut in the 2013-2014 season, becoming the AHL affiliate of the Vancouver Canucks. While Utica had a rich hockey history, including a previous AHL team, the Mohawk Valley Prowlers, the arrival of the Comets marked a significant turning point for the city and the region's hockey culture.
Building a Fan Base
From day one, the Utica Comets set out to build a strong and passionate fan base. The Utica Memorial Auditorium, known locally as the "Aud," became their home ice. It was a historic venue that had hosted hockey for decades and was the perfect place to reignite the community's love for the sport.
The team's front office staff worked tirelessly to engage with fans, host community events, and create a family-friendly atmosphere at games. The result was a dedicated and vocal fan base that proudly donned the team's blue and green colors.
The "Comets Effect"
The arrival of the Utica Comets had a ripple effect throughout the region. Youth hockey programs experienced a surge in participation as kids were inspired by the AHL team's presence. Local businesses benefited from increased foot traffic on game days, and restaurants and bars became gathering spots for fans before and after games.
The "Comets Effect" also extended to the city's culture. Utica, once primarily known for its rich Italian heritage and culinary delights, became synonymous with hockey. The Comets' success brought a sense of pride and unity to the community.
On-Ice Success
Success on the ice played a crucial role in the Comets' ability to captivate the hearts of fans. Led by head coach Travis Green, the team achieved impressive results early on. They made deep playoff runs, and players like Cal O'Reilly, Sven Baertschi, and Jacob Markstrom became fan favorites.
One of the most iconic moments in Comets history came during the 2015 Calder Cup Playoffs when the team reached the finals. Though they fell short of winning the championship, the run was a testament to the team's resilience and the unwavering support of their fans.
Fan Traditions and Camaraderie
A unique aspect of the Utica Comets' success was the development of fan traditions and camaraderie. Fans would eagerly participate in "The Salute," a ritual that involved fans waving their white rally towels during the national anthem. It was a powerful display of unity and support for the team.
Additionally, the Comets' mascot, Audie, became a beloved figure in the community. Audie's antics and interactions with fans, especially the younger ones, added to the family-friendly atmosphere at games.
The Utica Comets Today
As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the Utica Comets continue to be a beloved and integral part of the upstate New York hockey scene. They have since become the AHL affiliate of the New Jersey Devils, and the team's commitment to the community remains unwavering.
The "Comets Effect" continues to shape the region's hockey culture, and the Utica Memorial Auditorium remains a historic and cherished venue. The team's on-ice success, combined with its deep connection to the community, has solidified its place in the hearts of Utica residents.
The Utica Comets' journey from their inaugural season to their status as a beloved institution in upstate New York exemplifies the power of hockey to bring communities together. Their commitment to fostering a passionate fan base, coupled with on-ice success, has created a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the rink.
As the Utica Comets continue to represent the spirit of hockey in upstate New York, they serve as a reminder that the love for the sport knows no bounds. From the heart of Utica to communities throughout the region, the Comets have ignited a passion for hockey that will endure for generations to come.
FAQs:
Q1: What was the significance of the Utica Comets' arrival in upstate New York?
A1: The Utica Comets' arrival marked a significant turning point for hockey in upstate New York. They brought a renewed passion for the sport to the region, inspired increased participation in youth hockey programs, and had a positive economic impact on local businesses.
Q2: What are some of the fan traditions associated with the Utica Comets?
A2: One of the
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