Random thoughts after Game 1 of my hockey adventure through Western Canada:
The Canadian hockey fan is a different animal than many of us are used to in the States, and that's a good thing, frankly. They're knowledgible and passionate, and that is reflected in their support (and displeasure with) their teams. Their beefs were largely well-thought out and respectful (to a point).
It starts with the anthem. There really is no need for a singer of the Canadian National Anthem in Vancouver. The FANS sang it so loudly, it was difficult to hear the singer over the loudspeakers! A very stirring experience.
Sunday's game was dominated by the Canucks, who nearly doubled the Blackhawks in shots, yet won only 2-1. Nikolai Khabibulan played the finest game he has during his two seasons in Chicago, and Vancouver coach Alain Vigneault was quoted after the game that Khabibulin "made at least 10 unbelievable saves."
My disappointment with the outcome was tempered by the fact that a long-time friend provided us with FRONT-ROW seats to GM Place. In 25 years of attending NHL games, that was a first. God bless you A.C. ... Not only was the vantage point excellent, but the entire atmosphere of GM Place was fantastic. One of the newer arenas in Canada, it gets a lot of things right.
My first game in Canada was an unbelievably good experience!
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