NHL Winter Classic Double-Header

Posted on June 19th, 2009. Written by Emmett Jones.

On the ice is twice as nice!

After seeing big success with the inaugural Winter Classic and the follow up Winter Classic, the NHL has decided to double its, and its fans, pleasure with a Winter Classic double header.  Details from ESPN,

The NHL is hoping to double down on the success of its Winter Classic by planning a second outdoor game for Jan. 1, 2010, according to multiple league sources.

The back-end of the outdoor doubleheader would be hosted by the Flames in Calgary’s McMahon Stadium, the site of the opening and closing ceremonies for the 1988 Winter Olympics. The opponent is unknown but figures to be one of the other five Canadian-based franchises.

While there has been no official announcement, the first half of the Winter Classic twin bill likely will be hosted by the Boston Bruins at historic Fenway Park. Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals  are rumored to be the Bruins’ opponent.

The winter classic has thus far been a success, and I see no reason for the NHL to stop them in the future.  The only drawback may be having to compete with College Bowl Games, but the merchandise sales and attendance at the games thus far has been very strong.  I’m waiting to see if the NHL does something with social media to either promote the games or give some sort of inside access.  A twitter page on the NHL website? An “ask the player” Q&A in between periods?  Or maybe they down play the social media route and look to enhance the experience of the fans in attendance…YinzCam anyone?

ESPN — Sources: Calgary to host Winter Classic

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