Go Leafs, Boo Caps

We went to our first NHL game in Canada - as Leafs Fans.

They played the Caps in what was a "must win" game for the Leafs.  Mathematically, at least, they had a shot at the playoffs, according to what I overheard, Buffalo also had to lose the last 3 games (if there are, in fact, three games left).  So, it now looks like they are out of the running. It was a great, close game, going into overtime and then requiring a shootout to decide the game.  Our rookie goalie, and NHL rookie of the month, Reimer, did a great job.  And by "our," you'll remember we live in Canada.  There were lots of BOOOS for Ovechkin, and he is fun to boo. And he loves it.  He took the last shot for the Caps in the 3 shot shootout.  It was Ovechkin and the goalie on the ice, one at each end of the rink.  The stands were dark and filled with yelling fans booing him, and he took a second, with his hands on his knees, to get ready and just listen to the sound of the arena.  Fortunately, he missed.

Toronto loves their Leafs. And they love their hockey, more than anything.  E and S came with us, and they were really into it as they have just gotten skates and full face hockey masks are required equipment for their skating lessons.  After they learn to skate, their class feeds into a program called Hockey 101, and they are both ready to play.  They watched the play pretty carefully for their ages, and liked seeing how fast they could skate, and why they wore their helmets.

The stands were full on a Tuesday night, something I'm told is not uncommon.  The Leafs are a hot ticket.  After the game, and before the overtime, they played this song. Take a listen. It's a fun one - and note the changes in uniforms.

If you have a chance, wander over to this post and see if you agree with their hockey songs.  I first became interested in hockey when my parents took me to a Kings game in high school, back when Gretzky, Robitaille and McSorley were still playing.  We sat in the nosebleeds, people cursed, players fought and the crowd sang rock and roll part 2, the first time I heard that wonderful tune.  Of course, our kids are getting another sporting event introduction altogether, as we have already taken them to Maryland football games with our tailgating group, known for their polite rejoinders to the opposing team, and their mother has been known to boo anyone in Duke attire*, so I am not sure their first hockey experience was the same revelation.  

I also have a theory it is one of the reasons Canadians are so nice - because they get out most of their aggression on the ice.  And, why their kids are so well behaved. Because their parents can say "2 minutes for roughing," and their kids get it, and go straight to time out. Has totally changed my discipline, I can tell you.  

*Speaking of which, why does Canadian Old Navy need to sell Duke shirts? Seriously. Let them sell University of Toronto shirts or something. Come on, now.