This was Kim's first NHL game (being a Canadian, its one of the 100 things she "had to see"), and so living next to the border, the Red Wings are closer to her, and have a decent team (actually, as much as it pains me to say it being a Leafs fan, they have an excellent team) but the recession south of the border is really biting in Michigan, so tickets are easier to come by.
This is an example of one of the strangest rituals in the whole of the sporting world. Its a long standing tradition which according to Wikipedia originates from 1952. You can read the whole background and explanation there, but suffice to say, it brings the crowd to its feet, and really helps build the atmosphere in "The Joe".
Here, however is the more sanitised version that the NHL wishes would be the only memory of this unique ritual. This is the inflatable version of "Rally Al" that hangs from the roof above the ice during the game, having made his entrance with the team.
And here we see another example of the wildlife found in Joe Louis Arena: Ursus maritimus Isadore.... other wise known as Izzy the Polar Bear!
Yes, Izzy had her first trip across the border (but don't tell immigration, she's not been vaccinated!) and enjoyed the game immensely.
To be honest, I think alot of it went over her head, but she was particularly elated when Kim and Amanda had some "Dipping Dots" ice cream between periods. Yes, the idea of diving around covered in lots of cold balls of ice cream was music to her ears. Fortunately both Amanda and Kim were willing to share!
Incidentally the Red Wings won the game by a commanding 5-1, and went on to a 4-0 best-of-seven series sweep, winning the final game in Denver 8-2. OUCH!
They are now facing the Dallas Stars in the Western Conference finals, and are 2-0 up in that series, having won the first two games in Detroit.
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