Believe it or not, the Rangers have faced off against Frolunda once before - in 1981 during a preseason tournament. I love the internet because I was able to find someone who posted all of the details and Szymon Szemberg posted this scan of his ticket. The Rangers won 7-1 thanks to a hat trick from Ed Johnstone as well as a goal and four assists from Reijo Ruotsalainen. Bobby Hull - yes, that Bobby Hull - assisted on Reijo's goal (he was attempting a comeback after being retired three years but got hurt and called it quits after the tourney). Arena: The Scandinavium, which I think is Swedish for Golden Arches or something. I had the pleasure of going to see Frolunda play Modo back in December and it was an odd experience - it's a big McDonalds with a ice sheet inside. The evil arches are everywhere and the Swedes swallow that fast food like it is going out of style during the game. There is one regular McDonalds in there with seats and all, there is another that is just a sales counter and all of the other concession stands are called McSnacks. It was bizarre. The place holds around 12,000 fans who were pretty quiet the night I was there.
Team History: Well, the reason why they weren't particularly enthused was because the team was pretty bad last year, finishing ninth out of 12 teams in the Elitserien. They have a year-by-year on their website in English but you just need to know that they won the league in 2003 and 2005. In '03 they had some fellow in the net named Henrik Lundqvist.
Familiar Foes: Hank's bother Joel, who had a cup of coffee with the Dallas Stars, is the team captain. Joel was injured for much of last year and should be raring to go against his twin. Former Ranger Christian Backman is on their blueline (haha) while 36-year-old former Bruin PJ Axelsson is, in fact, still playing professional hockey.
Who To Watch For: Frolunda's top three scorers from last season Niklas Andersson (former Islander), Tomi Kallio and Riku Hahl are all gone. The Indians signed Magnus Kahnberg and Fredrik Pettersson, who both played in the AHL in '10-11 - Pettersson leads the team with five points (all assists) in six Elitserien matches. Former Ranger goaltender Johan Holmqvist was Frolunda's starter but he moved on to Brynas. In his place is Frederik Andersen, a Danish netminder drafted in the seventh round by Carolina in 2010 (you know Hank was picked in the seventh round too, right?). Andersen is red hot right now - he's allowed just three goals on 125 shots in five games.
Where They Are: Thanks to Andersen, top of the Elitserien table at 5-1.
What Can We Expect: A Henrik love-fest. While I am willing to bet that the Indians will put up a bit of a fight, they have an away game Saturday against Skelleftea so I don't think they will go to the wall the way Sparta did. The Rangers, meanwhile, have Saturday off to have Hank show them around town but hopefully they will not check out early.
Peepin' Foreign Foes: Frolunda Indians
In the world of ice hockey, Frolunda Indians are a name that resonates with both history and success. Hailing from Gothenburg, Sweden, this hockey club has carved a legacy that extends far beyond its home country's borders. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Frolunda Indians, exploring their rich history, notable achievements, and the impact they've had on the international hockey scene.
Table of Contents
The Swedish Love for Hockey
Ice Hockey's Cultural Significance
Birth of Frolunda Indians
Frolunda Indians: A Brief Overview
Early Years and Growth
International Success
Swedish Hockey Influence on the NHL
Swedish Players in the NHL
Contributions to Global Hockey
Frolunda Indians Today
Ongoing Challenges and Triumphs
Fanbase and Local Support
FAQs: Common Questions About Swedish Hockey
1. The Swedish Love for Hockey
Ice Hockey's Cultural Significance
In Sweden, ice hockey is more than just a sport; it's a cultural phenomenon. The sport has deep roots in the country, and its popularity transcends generations. Families gather at rinks to watch games, and children dream of one day representing their favorite teams, both domestically and on the international stage.
Birth of Frolunda Indians
The Frolunda Indians' journey began in 1938 when the club was founded in Gothenburg, Sweden. Over the years, it would grow to become one of the most successful and iconic hockey teams in Sweden, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
2. Frolunda Indians: A Brief Overview
Early Years and Growth
Frolunda Indians' early years were marked by success in Swedish hockey. The club quickly climbed the ranks, winning domestic championships and establishing itself as a formidable force. The team's commitment to excellence and development of homegrown talent played a significant role in its success.
International Success
Frolunda Indians made their mark on the international stage by clinching the Champions Hockey League (CHL) title. Their victory in this prestigious European competition showcased their competitiveness and skill against the best teams from across the continent.
3. Swedish Hockey Influence on the NHL
Swedish Players in the NHL
Sweden has been a significant contributor to the NHL, with a plethora of Swedish players making their mark in North America. Names like Peter Forsberg, Nicklas Lidstrom, and Henrik Lundqvist have become synonymous with success and excellence in the NHL, showcasing the talent nurtured in Swedish hockey programs.
Contributions to Global Hockey
Swedish NHL players have not only excelled individually but have also contributed to their national teams' successes in international competitions, including the Olympics and the IIHF World Championships. Their skill, sportsmanship, and leadership have earned Sweden respect on the global hockey stage.
4. Frolunda Indians Today
Ongoing Challenges and Triumphs
In recent years, Frolunda Indians have faced challenges in maintaining their competitive edge, particularly with the rise of other European clubs. However, the team continues to strive for excellence and remains a symbol of Swedish hockey pride. Challenges are seen as opportunities for growth and adaptation.
Fanbase and Local Support
The dedicated fanbase of Frolunda Indians is the lifeblood of the team. Fans from Gothenburg and beyond come together to support their beloved club, creating a vibrant and passionate atmosphere in the arena. Local businesses and sponsors also play a crucial role in sustaining the team, reinforcing the deep connection between the club and its community.
5. FAQs: Common Questions About Swedish Hockey
Q1: How has Sweden performed in international hockey competitions?
A1: Sweden has consistently been a strong contender in international hockey competitions, with numerous gold medals in the IIHF World Championships and success in the Olympic Games.
Q2: Are there any Swedish players currently active in the NHL?
A2: Yes, there are several Swedish players currently playing in the NHL, contributing to their respective teams with their skill and versatility.
Q3: What is the future outlook for Frolunda Indians?
A3: The future of Frolunda Indians is shaped by the dedication of its fans, the support of local businesses, and the determination of the club's leadership. While challenges may arise, the team's legacy and commitment to Swedish hockey will endure.
Frolunda Indians represent the heart and soul of Swedish hockey, embodying the country's passion for the sport. With a rich history of success, a strong fanbase, and a legacy of contributing talent to the NHL and international competitions, Frolunda Indians continue to inspire future generations of Swedish hockey players and fans alike. In the world of hockey, it's essential to remember that the love for the game knows no borders, and teams like Frolunda Indians play a vital role in preserving that spirit.
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