Saginaw Spirit Hockey Game Last Night

Last night Brian and I, along with his brother Todd and Todd's girlfriend Rachel, went to a Saginaw Spirit hockey game. For those who don't know, Saginaw, Michigan is only about 15 minutes away from Bay City. Bay City and Saginaw, along with the nearby city of Midland, make up the Tri-Cities.

We ended up going to the game due to the fact that Brian and Todd's Aunt T won six tickets (she and her husband met us there). During the intermission between second and third period, she got to ride on a utility vehicle that used pneumatic guns to shoot t-shirts into the crowd. We originally thought that she'd get to ride the Zamboni, which would have been very cool. Anyway, we had a great time, even though the Spirit lost. Quite frankly, they stink, but it was still fun.

Personally, I had forgotten the history between Stephen Colbert and the Saginaw Spirit. Heck, their cutest mascot - Steagle Colbeagle the Eagle (one of two mascots) - is even named after him! You can read about the whole thing by checking out the links below. It is funny and interesting.

Highlights of the evening included fights on the ice, all kinds of promotions, and a rowdy bunch of junior high football players that sat right behind us. All in all, a fun evening. I have to admit, it was kind of strange having them play "O Canada" before the "Star Spangle Banner," but it is understandable as the Saginaw Spirit is part of the Ontario Hockey League (actually, the only US team in the league). Yes, that's what you get for living in Michigan - a special closeness to Canada. In fact, my parents now own a cabin in Canada (Ontario) and spend quite a bit of time there.

Strange that this should be my first hockey game. I went to one of the best hockey schools around - Michigan State University. For all of the time I spent in Munn Ice Arena for special events, I never did get around to going to a game. I grew up watching the Red Wings go for back to back championships in 1996 and 1997 (and winning BOTH titles), so it isn't like I didn't have an interest.

Ah well, it was a great first experience, and I'm sure it won't be the last.

Lindsey

Saginaw Spirit Website
Wikipedia Article
Wikiality (Stephen Colbert) Article
Michigan State University