En Blog congelado

En mi grupo, aproximadamente la mitad de los participantes tenía boletos de la estación, y cada una había estado a un juego. It seemed like most were conversant with the rules and asked “Why don’t they (the players) just go up the center and shoot?” They showed some frustration with the team in the questions they asked Coach Boudreau, but the coach handled it all well and with good humor.

• Was the event geared more towards novices or experts?

I think it was geared toward novices, but was good for experts too because they could ask specific questions. The “experts” seemed to be there more to see the facilities, see the locker room and equipment room, and ogle the players. During the bar event I was surprised that almost every time when I asked the person in front of me, “Who is that player?”, they always knew their name and position they played.

• Did you learn anything new? If so, what?

I learned a lot about the equipment, they travel with 6 sticks! And there is only 1 set of goalie gear. I still cannot understand icing, so I asked the coach “I don’t understand icing, how do I look for it?” He explained that a lot of the times he doesn’t know whether it’s going to be called or not. So I STILL don’t get it…

• How was Clyde’s afterwards? Were you able to meet any of the players? Which players were there?

Clyde’s was crowded, but it was fun. The food was deliciousâ€â€�I had a lamb chop, shrimp, crab dip. They had an open bar, including specialty drinks like the “Ovechkin” (a blue concoction I didn’t try) and “Slapshot” (which was sweet but tasty). I met and took photos with Matt Pettinger, Milan Jurcina, Brooks Laich, Jeff Schultz, and Nicklas Backstrom. Eric Fehr was also there. I was really shocked to see the players in regular clothes. I know it sounds stupid, but they are so much thinner than they look on the ice (since the padding makes them look bigger). They were all very nice and approachable. I felt like I should have had something more to say other than, “Thanks for coming” and “How do you like Washington?” If I were to go again I’d want to be able to ask them real questions. I was impressed that the players are so accessible and give their time.

• Would you go again next year?

I think I would do it again, but it would be more fun with a friend.

• What were your overall impressions?

Women really like hockey. I married into hockey and I enjoy it, but a lot of these women love it and it was nice to see a public outlet for their passion. Oh, and this event is really cool, I know my husband would have liked to stand on the Verizon Center ice and pass the puck with an NHLer. And I got to do it! I think the Caps should consider something like this for men. Sticks, Pucks, and Cocks (just kidding)! This event also really made me appreciate the players a lot more. They work really hard and have a lot of ups and downs (as do their wives and families).

I think she’s onto something with her suggestion for a men’s event. Anyway, by all accounts it was a successful event; the Caps sold 250 tickets in eight days. Not bad. Take note, NHL- women love hockey too!

A special thanks to Mrs. OrderedChaos for providing her perspective.

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