Yesterday I had an incredible time witnessing my first Stanley cup game live at Mellon arena. The most important news is the Penguins defeated the red wings 4 to 2, the red wings still lead the series 2 to 1 but the Penguins are still in it baby. Pictures of this adventure are below.
Beth was able to take some time off work yesterday, so that we could get to the arena early and make sure we had accessible parking and enjoy some tailgating. It was a sellout crowd plus 5000 people watching on the big screen TV outside Mellon arena, or as I like to say Mario's basement TV....
We had subway sandwiches at the van, then walked around enjoying the crowd and the great weather. The radio station 105.9 was broadcasting live as I rolled by and the DJ tossed me a free T shirt, free swag is always good...
At the penguins store I bought a Stanley Cup Pin, and game three official Puck. We watched the players drive in and the crowd went crazy as each one walked into the arena. Malkin drives a white convertible Porsche that is amazing, it pays to be a winner.
After getting the tickets at Will Call, we went over to the official Penguins tailgate party. Here they had The Prince Of Wales eastern conference trophy on display. I grabbed a beverage and watched the crowd then headed into the greatest show on earth.
Our seats were 31 C, one and two. Directly to the right of Marc Andre Fleury, he defended this goal twice. Here is the best news about the seats, I sat next to Kevin Stevens two time Stanley cup winner and legendary left wingger.
He had to be the most gracious ex athlete ever. He probably shook hands with 30 people, signed autographs, and smiled for pictures in between periods. During the third period when it was tide 2 to 2, I said " there's a little more than 12 minutes left, there's still time for you to suit up, we need a goal." He said " I would love to more than you know".... How cool is that?
When the penguins finally pulled ahead for good, the arena erupted! I have to say it was incredible to be there... There is nothing like seeing the Stanley cup live with your team coming away with a much needed victory! I can't wait until Thursday, although watching them on TV is definitely not the same. Go Pens !
7 comments:
Ok...now I am officially full of jealousy. Kevin Stevens!? Damn, you are lucky! When I lived in Pittsburgh, I attended a lot of Penguin games and got alot of autographs, but that was after Stevens retired. I got those between 1995-1998...we used to leave the games a bit early and just stand outside of the player parking lot and the majority of the players were only too happy to sign autographs. I treasure those autographs.
I watched the game and I am so glad that my kids will sleep through anything, because I was not about to be quiet just because they were sleeping!!! What a great game!!! Can't wait til tomorrow!
Let's Go Pens!!!!
Sounds like a very cool experience all the way around! Which jersey did you wear to the game? ;-)
I had so much fun and know how lucky I am... I ended up in a Crosby Jersey, I don't like the white outs.
I've never been a hockey fan, but it looks like you had a great time! It's always fun to attend the big games, no matter what sport it is. I'll be rooting for your team! (okay, I didn't even know it was the playoffs, and really, I don't even know when hockey season starts/ends...but I will root for the Penguins!)
OK. You're officially the coolest guy in Pittsburgh.
Nina
I was upside down on the street last week... lol I'm so uncool.
Sounds like a fun time. For me that would be the snacking and shopping part. I am happy for those who enjoy hockey. I, however, appreciated the pics that you posted since I kinda missed the game. Oh dear, did I just admit that out loud?
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