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Ottawa Senators: Outdoor Game A Certainty

By Conor Peniston-Bird

Jan 1, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; A general view of Gillette Stadium during the National Anthem before the Winter Classic hockey game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; A general view of Gillette Stadium during the National Anthem before the Winter Classic hockey game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports /
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As talks continue surrounding the potential outdoor at TD place on Dec.19 against the Montreal Canadiens, we analyse the significance of hosting an outdoor game.

It’s a reflection of the growth of the Senators Organization

The Ottawa Senators have come a long way since they were returned to the city in 1992 by Bruce Firestone. Not quite repeating the 11 Stanley Cup wins but competing nonetheless. An outdoor game coming to Ottawa shows the intent of the organization to be a force to be reckoned with. Tie this in with the continued development of the LeBreton project, that will hopefully return hockey to its rightful place, downtown.

The Outdoor Game The Sens Played In, Was Just Awesome

One of the most enjoyable outdoor games in memory that had everything. BC Place was bouncing, the Vancouver Canucks dominating the first period. The Sens then rifling the pipe five times behind Eddie Lack. Of course the 4-2 win leaves a brighter memory in minds of Ottawa fans. The whole event is just a spectacle. Many dismiss these games as money grabbing and just a façade but they aren’t just that. Of course the NHL is looking to make cash, but the outdoor events return hockey to its’ roots, with the best players in the world competing in the fresh air.

The Sweaters Are Amazing!

Being the away team sucks in the outdoor games as there isn’t much you can do with white. With the potential of Ottawa being the home team, the jersey could look fantastic. The throwback sweaters, again, not just a money grab, but a reminder of how far our great game has come. Look at the St. Louis Blues, playing in their Winter Classic sweaters a few more times, due to the popularity of them.

Creating A Legacy Of Their Own

It is not secret that Ottawa is full of Toronto Maple Leaf and Montreal Canadien fans. It is a case of legacy and influence. Generations of Ottawa citizens have followed those two teams not over the Senators, the Sens simply didn’t exist. That is the task of current organization, creating fans for the next generation to pass down to their children. An outdoor game begins to sew those seeds, it gives citizens a chance to show their city to the world and celebrate it.

A Closer Look At The Team

‘The Road To The Winter Classic’ documentaries are nearly compulsory viewing for any NHL fan.  They provide that behind-the-scenes look at the team you love, a look at player’s personalities and habits. Not every team is as media friendly as P.K. Subban, and it provides a chance to get a glimpse. This year’s edition was no exception an excellent watch and to think that Ottawa might feature in the next edition is fascinating and exciting.

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