A year ago, I found myself gripped in hockey fever.
The anticipation of the Olympics, successful seasons for both the Devils and Sabres, and even getting a few pickup games in myself, I could not get enough hockey.
The most exposure I had to international games was the World Cup of hockey which I attended at Madison Square Garden in 1996, and the Olympics every 4 years. But even as I was aware of the World Junior Championships, I had never had a chance to even watch a game on TV. Enter the NHL Network.
During what Time Warner Cable would later call “a preview period,” my roommates and I would have the great fortune of not only being able to watch the Network, but watch some of the action from the 2009-2010 WJHC.
Watching the youngsters who would soon populate the NHL was an excitement to say, “Hey, I remember when he played in the tourney that year.”
We watched every game we could, making it a point to skip whatever regular season NHL game was on in order to focus our national pride, in practice for the Olympics. Even our neighbors took an interest in the Championships and found their way into our apartment for a game or two.
We sat on the edge of our seats as the Americans faced off against the Canadians in Canada for the Gold Medal, we screamed, cheered and celebrated when Jack Campbell’s kick save sprung a 3-on-1 rush and John Carlson ripped a no-look shot past Martin Jones for the winner in a 6-5 game.
Tonight, the USA hockey team opened up their 2010-2011 campaign with a 3-2 overtime winner over Finland. The game was one which the US had tried their hardest to give away, especially in the third period, when it seemed as if only a handful of players were trying to get the goal which would give them the 2 goal lead they desperately needed. That group was lead by Montvale, NJ native Kyle Palmeri who single-handedly nearly gave the Americans that lead.
Unfortunately, defensive breakdowns would allow the Fins to tie it up with over 10 minutes to go, putting doubt in minds of the USA supporter crowd, and fueling the cheers of a mostly Canadian Pro-Fin side.
Luckily, the Americans would have the last laugh with their overtime winner, sending the masses into the Buffalo night happy, and those going back across the border with a little knot in their stomach knowing the Americans could play like crap and yet still come out victorious.
Look out, Canada, we’re coming for you again.
We Cover Hockey the Best We Can...
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Saturday, December 25, 2010
The 2010 New Jersey Devils 'Twas the Night Before Christmas
--Written by Bill Tucker (BulletProof), a poster on the NJDevs.com website--
Twas the night before Christmas and all through the Rock,
The hallways were quiet, just the sound of a clock
Ticking ‘way time and three months of shame,
Preparing itself for the Maple Leafs game
All except for one man, alone in a room,
Lou was there sitting, saddled with gloom.
This team that he built was disaster, in fact,
Towards the depths of the standings, they currently sat
“How could this possibly happen?”, he swore.
“The players are tested and ready, what’s more,
Our coach had success with the minor league team.”
“This season has been just a horrible dream”
But then, out the window, there awoke such a clatter
Lou sprang from his chair to see what was the matter.
Leaving smashed jars of jelly askew in his wake,
He peered out the window at the cause of this quake.
The night was as still as the new fallen snow
But Lou could make out tiny shapes down below.
The crowd was first tiny but soon more showed up
Until suddenly their numbers began to erupt.
When the mob began shouting pro Devils chants,
Lou then realized they weren’t just ants.
In Championship Plaza, assembled as one,
The whole Devil’s Army, united they’d come.
They wore jerseys with Kovy and Marty and Clarkson
Amongst Parise and Zajac and even a Rolston!
Some honored the past with Stevens and Dano.
One guy even sported an “Emerick and Chico”
They shouted and yelled out the best chants they knew
And the more the crowd cheered, the larger they grew.
Even the mascot joined in on the fun
As Devils themed carols loudly were sung.
The spirit of oneness filled the Brick City sky
And soon Lou realized why the tear in his eye.
The moment at hand gave his lip a small quiver
As he realized the gift the fans had delivered.
Despite all the failures and lost expectations,
Pride still existed within Devils Nation.
Players may leave and have other plans
But the true core of the team was the heart of the fans.
With a sweep of his arm, Lou threw up the shade
And to the mob down below, gave the smallest of waves.
The crowd responded with an uproarious cheer
And Lou could do nothing but grin ear to ear.
The party raged on to the wee morning light
And no one quite knows the attendance that night.
All that is remembered is the spirit of pride
In all that the team has helped to provide.
So, no matter what day you hold dear this season
Or frustrations you hold, regardless the reason,
When you come to the Rock, in a voice loud and shrill,
Show our team love with a, “LET’S GO DEVILS”!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Twas the night before Christmas and all through the Rock,
The hallways were quiet, just the sound of a clock
Ticking ‘way time and three months of shame,
Preparing itself for the Maple Leafs game
All except for one man, alone in a room,
Lou was there sitting, saddled with gloom.
This team that he built was disaster, in fact,
Towards the depths of the standings, they currently sat
“How could this possibly happen?”, he swore.
“The players are tested and ready, what’s more,
Our coach had success with the minor league team.”
“This season has been just a horrible dream”
But then, out the window, there awoke such a clatter
Lou sprang from his chair to see what was the matter.
Leaving smashed jars of jelly askew in his wake,
He peered out the window at the cause of this quake.
The night was as still as the new fallen snow
But Lou could make out tiny shapes down below.
The crowd was first tiny but soon more showed up
Until suddenly their numbers began to erupt.
When the mob began shouting pro Devils chants,
Lou then realized they weren’t just ants.
In Championship Plaza, assembled as one,
The whole Devil’s Army, united they’d come.
They wore jerseys with Kovy and Marty and Clarkson
Amongst Parise and Zajac and even a Rolston!
Some honored the past with Stevens and Dano.
One guy even sported an “Emerick and Chico”
They shouted and yelled out the best chants they knew
And the more the crowd cheered, the larger they grew.
Even the mascot joined in on the fun
As Devils themed carols loudly were sung.
The spirit of oneness filled the Brick City sky
And soon Lou realized why the tear in his eye.
The moment at hand gave his lip a small quiver
As he realized the gift the fans had delivered.
Despite all the failures and lost expectations,
Pride still existed within Devils Nation.
Players may leave and have other plans
But the true core of the team was the heart of the fans.
With a sweep of his arm, Lou threw up the shade
And to the mob down below, gave the smallest of waves.
The crowd responded with an uproarious cheer
And Lou could do nothing but grin ear to ear.
The party raged on to the wee morning light
And no one quite knows the attendance that night.
All that is remembered is the spirit of pride
In all that the team has helped to provide.
So, no matter what day you hold dear this season
Or frustrations you hold, regardless the reason,
When you come to the Rock, in a voice loud and shrill,
Show our team love with a, “LET’S GO DEVILS”!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Santa's Christmas List for the Devils
GOOD
Travis Zajac – Even with his scoring slump without winger Zach Parise, Zajac has exemplified perseverance through adversity this season. He has developed into a vital forward, excelling at both ends of the rink. His defensive awareness and ability to move the puck exceptionally well should make him a Selke candidate, but the team is horrific, and that storyline is clouding the recognition of Zajac. Oh, and the fact he is the only “defensive” player who can make a clean outlet pass from the defensive zone speaks even further to his value on this team.
Ilya Kovalchuk – His horrendously slow start sent some fans off the deep end, and his $100 million price tag gave them the perfect excuse to do so. Ironically, after Parise was injured, Kovy struggled to assume the role of the premier winger of the team, yet was the main force for Atlanta just a year ago. Recently, however, Kovalchuk is the reason why the power play units are finally finding some semblance of success. Problem is, the Devils need him to contribute at even strength too, but Santa isn’t going to hold him solely responsible for the underachievement of so many others, so his recent 5 game point streak has him on the good list just in time for Christmas.
Dainius Zubrus – The 6’5” Lithuianian forward has taken beyond his fair share of heat from fans due to his low numbers and high price tag. What casual fans forget is that the score sheet shows neither the intangibles nor what the player creates just being on the ice. Sure, a measure of success should be how many points are amassed, but when a team cannot score if they were playing a team full of corpses, you need to look beyond the scoresheet and look at the performance on the ice. Zubrus never takes a shift off and is obviously playing with every ounce of his heart. He is most certainly deserving of being on the good list just for his heart when those around him are clearly checking out.
Jason Arnott - Reacquired from Nashville at the start of the summer, Arnott has brought back the same hard-hitting, hard shooting game which he had during his previous tenure with the Devils. Arnott is a clear candidate for the ‘Good List’ because he leads the team in goals, from game 1 when he fired a power play goal past Kari Lehtonen until the beginning of November, he was well on his way to a 30 goal season, but he has cooled since sitting at 10 for the year. Regaining chemistry with Patrik Elias also has given some life to the 2nd line, consistency, however, is the bane of the offense.
Colin White – For the past few seasons, White has not only been the scapegoat of the fans, but has also seen his physicality and overall game go downhill in part due to his career-threatening eye injury. This season, White’s edge has seemingly reappeared and he has reaffirmed himself as one of the best defenders on the Devils. He has resumed hitting opponents at the boards and in front of the net, and has even been willing to drop the gloves after registering his first fight in over 3 years. You don’t look for White to step in offensively, but his defensive role on the team cannot be undervalued.
Anton Volchenkov – Came to the Devils as a free agent and immediately was a fan favorite. It is no surprise why he was cheered when announced on his first trip back to Ottawa, his heart and effort are a prized intangible for any team. The fans there thanked him with their ovations just as the fans of his current team have roared with applause on his big hits. Volchenkov missed significant time after breaking his nose by blocking a shot earlier in the year against Washington. Volchenkov came back and resumed the physicality which is in desperately short supply on the current Devils’ roster.
Any of the Goalies – Johan Hedberg, Mike McKenna, Martin Broduer – The Devils have the worst goal differential in the league at -40 following play on Sunday. Lazy fans would immediately throw the blame on the keepers for not stopping more than they let in, which would be a monumental error. Even after a 7-1 loss in Atlanta, you cannot throw all of the burden of Devils defensive failures on the keepers. The defense has been decimated with injuries.
Others enjoying presents without fear of coal: Rod Pelley, Adam Mair, Matt Taormina, Matias Tendenby, Zach Parise, Jacob Josefson, Tim Sestito.
GIFTS & COAL
David Clarkson – having a horrendous season scoring wise, but because of a kind gesture towards my little cousin, he automatically receives a thumbs up.
Any player not listed above or below.
BAD LIST
Brian Rolston – Can’t skate for more than 30 seconds, can’t score, can’t do much of anything yet commands $5.03 million a season and doesn’t seem to keen on trying to get any better. The lumps of coal cannot be large enough for this player.
John Maclean – The only reason he’s even going to get coal on Christmas is because he just lost his job as head coach and we don’t want his family to go cold. The expressionless, emotionless, don’t give a crap coach is now taking another role in the organization. Thankfully he will not be able to pollute the locker room with his negativity anymore.
Jamie Langenbrunner – The former hero when he first came to the team, Langenbrunner has fallen off in all aspects of his game. Of his 3 goals this season, only one has come with an actual goalie in net, [the other 2 being empty netters]. From the disaster tempertantrum at the end of last season because of being given a mandatory game off by former and now current coach Jacques Lemaire, to the lack of productivity, and the absesnce of any leadership, Langenbrunner earns coal in his stockings, and eventually an almost certain ticket out of town.
Mark Fayne - Yes, he’s a rookie, but his play and decision making has been horrendous. From improper positioning, to bash-your-head-into-a-hard-surface choices, Fayne has cost the Devils in so many different ways, it’s a Christmas Miracle he’s still on the big club.
Lou Lamoriello – He earned major points for keeping Ilya Kovalchuk and acquiring Jason Arnott. The problem is he never addressed the cap problems and has yet to start negociations with Zach Parise who enters restricted free agency next summer. He also sat on his hands entirely too long with John Maclean hoping the ship would right itself. Now the Devils are the worst team in hockey, with a steep cliff to climb if they even have aspirations of making the playoffs. If they do make it, which I am predicting, they could very well find themselves getting in by the same fashion as the Flyers did last season.
Travis Zajac – Even with his scoring slump without winger Zach Parise, Zajac has exemplified perseverance through adversity this season. He has developed into a vital forward, excelling at both ends of the rink. His defensive awareness and ability to move the puck exceptionally well should make him a Selke candidate, but the team is horrific, and that storyline is clouding the recognition of Zajac. Oh, and the fact he is the only “defensive” player who can make a clean outlet pass from the defensive zone speaks even further to his value on this team.
Ilya Kovalchuk – His horrendously slow start sent some fans off the deep end, and his $100 million price tag gave them the perfect excuse to do so. Ironically, after Parise was injured, Kovy struggled to assume the role of the premier winger of the team, yet was the main force for Atlanta just a year ago. Recently, however, Kovalchuk is the reason why the power play units are finally finding some semblance of success. Problem is, the Devils need him to contribute at even strength too, but Santa isn’t going to hold him solely responsible for the underachievement of so many others, so his recent 5 game point streak has him on the good list just in time for Christmas.
Dainius Zubrus – The 6’5” Lithuianian forward has taken beyond his fair share of heat from fans due to his low numbers and high price tag. What casual fans forget is that the score sheet shows neither the intangibles nor what the player creates just being on the ice. Sure, a measure of success should be how many points are amassed, but when a team cannot score if they were playing a team full of corpses, you need to look beyond the scoresheet and look at the performance on the ice. Zubrus never takes a shift off and is obviously playing with every ounce of his heart. He is most certainly deserving of being on the good list just for his heart when those around him are clearly checking out.
Jason Arnott - Reacquired from Nashville at the start of the summer, Arnott has brought back the same hard-hitting, hard shooting game which he had during his previous tenure with the Devils. Arnott is a clear candidate for the ‘Good List’ because he leads the team in goals, from game 1 when he fired a power play goal past Kari Lehtonen until the beginning of November, he was well on his way to a 30 goal season, but he has cooled since sitting at 10 for the year. Regaining chemistry with Patrik Elias also has given some life to the 2nd line, consistency, however, is the bane of the offense.
Colin White – For the past few seasons, White has not only been the scapegoat of the fans, but has also seen his physicality and overall game go downhill in part due to his career-threatening eye injury. This season, White’s edge has seemingly reappeared and he has reaffirmed himself as one of the best defenders on the Devils. He has resumed hitting opponents at the boards and in front of the net, and has even been willing to drop the gloves after registering his first fight in over 3 years. You don’t look for White to step in offensively, but his defensive role on the team cannot be undervalued.
Anton Volchenkov – Came to the Devils as a free agent and immediately was a fan favorite. It is no surprise why he was cheered when announced on his first trip back to Ottawa, his heart and effort are a prized intangible for any team. The fans there thanked him with their ovations just as the fans of his current team have roared with applause on his big hits. Volchenkov missed significant time after breaking his nose by blocking a shot earlier in the year against Washington. Volchenkov came back and resumed the physicality which is in desperately short supply on the current Devils’ roster.
Any of the Goalies – Johan Hedberg, Mike McKenna, Martin Broduer – The Devils have the worst goal differential in the league at -40 following play on Sunday. Lazy fans would immediately throw the blame on the keepers for not stopping more than they let in, which would be a monumental error. Even after a 7-1 loss in Atlanta, you cannot throw all of the burden of Devils defensive failures on the keepers. The defense has been decimated with injuries.
Others enjoying presents without fear of coal: Rod Pelley, Adam Mair, Matt Taormina, Matias Tendenby, Zach Parise, Jacob Josefson, Tim Sestito.
GIFTS & COAL
David Clarkson – having a horrendous season scoring wise, but because of a kind gesture towards my little cousin, he automatically receives a thumbs up.
Any player not listed above or below.
BAD LIST
Brian Rolston – Can’t skate for more than 30 seconds, can’t score, can’t do much of anything yet commands $5.03 million a season and doesn’t seem to keen on trying to get any better. The lumps of coal cannot be large enough for this player.
John Maclean – The only reason he’s even going to get coal on Christmas is because he just lost his job as head coach and we don’t want his family to go cold. The expressionless, emotionless, don’t give a crap coach is now taking another role in the organization. Thankfully he will not be able to pollute the locker room with his negativity anymore.
Jamie Langenbrunner – The former hero when he first came to the team, Langenbrunner has fallen off in all aspects of his game. Of his 3 goals this season, only one has come with an actual goalie in net, [the other 2 being empty netters]. From the disaster tempertantrum at the end of last season because of being given a mandatory game off by former and now current coach Jacques Lemaire, to the lack of productivity, and the absesnce of any leadership, Langenbrunner earns coal in his stockings, and eventually an almost certain ticket out of town.
Mark Fayne - Yes, he’s a rookie, but his play and decision making has been horrendous. From improper positioning, to bash-your-head-into-a-hard-surface choices, Fayne has cost the Devils in so many different ways, it’s a Christmas Miracle he’s still on the big club.
Lou Lamoriello – He earned major points for keeping Ilya Kovalchuk and acquiring Jason Arnott. The problem is he never addressed the cap problems and has yet to start negociations with Zach Parise who enters restricted free agency next summer. He also sat on his hands entirely too long with John Maclean hoping the ship would right itself. Now the Devils are the worst team in hockey, with a steep cliff to climb if they even have aspirations of making the playoffs. If they do make it, which I am predicting, they could very well find themselves getting in by the same fashion as the Flyers did last season.
Friday, December 17, 2010
"Give Me Something to Believe"
Stealing a line from the song ‘Believe’ by The Bravery tells you exactly how the night went.
The fans came, 3000 fewer than last weekend, but they still came.
A large contingent, between 50-75 fans, joined season ticket holders in their perches high above the ice in section 209.
The banner at the top said all you needed to know about what to expect from the fans at The Rock, the supporters had arrived.
They came in droves, nearly everyone obeying the ‘wear your red’ law established by the group as a whole. The looks on the faces were of hope and excitement. The young and old alike shared words of encouragement, the debated on chants and whether they should sit or stand, but everything was set for one of the most organized fan movements in the recent history of the Devils’ fan base.
The second the lights went out, the section erupted into a chorus of “Let’s go Devils” to a magnitude that made you feel as if this were a game in May. Granted, while around the rest of the arena it may not have come across that way, in that section the energy was electric.
Once in a while, the group would begin a chant and members unsure of how to follow, but that was to be expected for almost a completely dry run. But that did not deter the celebration nor the energy of the fans.
The cheered their lungs out throughout the first, trying to will the Devils to do something, anything so they could lose their minds. Yet that something never came, and the Devils failed to even touch half of the energy they displayed on Wednesday night versus Phoenix.
Even after the late period goal by the Predators, they still held their enthusiasm, roaring up another “Let’s go Devils” before the end of the first, but still almost no real life from the team.
The fans tried to regain that energy from the first period, and inspire the team, but four minutes in, Martin Erat fired a shot high glove side over Martin Brodeur. The crowd seemed to hit a lull of doubt and uncertainty at this point, yet they refused to allow it to last and again riled themselves back into the game. Aiding this effort were some phenomenal saves by Brodeur including a stacking of the pads on a 3-on-2 break for the Predators.
Some will be quick to blame the referees, and rightfully so, on a few of the horrendous calls, yet the team could not mount any sustained pressure for any extended amount of time. The effort was there, but only in bits and pieces of waves, and almost as soon as it arrived, the carelessness and lack of awareness took over and destroyed their efforts and chances.
The fans even prepped for the worst during the 2nd intermission, telling, if not asking, one another to not boo following the final horn should the team not register a goal [The amount of compliance with this was phenomenal, by the way, I respect each and everyone who stayed until the end and did not boo.]. What would have been the point? The team knows how bad it is for fans, and it cannot be any easier for them in the locker room, but something has to give.
How can they come out playing inspired and focused hockey one night, then two nights later, look just the opposite? This Jekyll and Hyde approach to every game is going to keep them from achieving any semblance of success on a consistent basis. There’s effort, but no aggression on the fore-check, there’s chemistry, but there’s no one able to finish, or willing to try to finish for that matter. 17 shots on goal, 30 total attempts [including those blocked or missed] are not going to get it done, especially when luck is clearly not on their side for the time being.
The fans impressed, but their efforts and heart could not be matched by the players on the ice, who just days earlier said they fed off the crowd and would do everything not to disappoint them.
Well, Devils, give us something to believe.
The fans came, 3000 fewer than last weekend, but they still came.
A large contingent, between 50-75 fans, joined season ticket holders in their perches high above the ice in section 209.
The banner at the top said all you needed to know about what to expect from the fans at The Rock, the supporters had arrived.
They came in droves, nearly everyone obeying the ‘wear your red’ law established by the group as a whole. The looks on the faces were of hope and excitement. The young and old alike shared words of encouragement, the debated on chants and whether they should sit or stand, but everything was set for one of the most organized fan movements in the recent history of the Devils’ fan base.
The second the lights went out, the section erupted into a chorus of “Let’s go Devils” to a magnitude that made you feel as if this were a game in May. Granted, while around the rest of the arena it may not have come across that way, in that section the energy was electric.
Once in a while, the group would begin a chant and members unsure of how to follow, but that was to be expected for almost a completely dry run. But that did not deter the celebration nor the energy of the fans.
The cheered their lungs out throughout the first, trying to will the Devils to do something, anything so they could lose their minds. Yet that something never came, and the Devils failed to even touch half of the energy they displayed on Wednesday night versus Phoenix.
Even after the late period goal by the Predators, they still held their enthusiasm, roaring up another “Let’s go Devils” before the end of the first, but still almost no real life from the team.
The fans tried to regain that energy from the first period, and inspire the team, but four minutes in, Martin Erat fired a shot high glove side over Martin Brodeur. The crowd seemed to hit a lull of doubt and uncertainty at this point, yet they refused to allow it to last and again riled themselves back into the game. Aiding this effort were some phenomenal saves by Brodeur including a stacking of the pads on a 3-on-2 break for the Predators.
Some will be quick to blame the referees, and rightfully so, on a few of the horrendous calls, yet the team could not mount any sustained pressure for any extended amount of time. The effort was there, but only in bits and pieces of waves, and almost as soon as it arrived, the carelessness and lack of awareness took over and destroyed their efforts and chances.
The fans even prepped for the worst during the 2nd intermission, telling, if not asking, one another to not boo following the final horn should the team not register a goal [The amount of compliance with this was phenomenal, by the way, I respect each and everyone who stayed until the end and did not boo.]. What would have been the point? The team knows how bad it is for fans, and it cannot be any easier for them in the locker room, but something has to give.
How can they come out playing inspired and focused hockey one night, then two nights later, look just the opposite? This Jekyll and Hyde approach to every game is going to keep them from achieving any semblance of success on a consistent basis. There’s effort, but no aggression on the fore-check, there’s chemistry, but there’s no one able to finish, or willing to try to finish for that matter. 17 shots on goal, 30 total attempts [including those blocked or missed] are not going to get it done, especially when luck is clearly not on their side for the time being.
The fans impressed, but their efforts and heart could not be matched by the players on the ice, who just days earlier said they fed off the crowd and would do everything not to disappoint them.
Well, Devils, give us something to believe.
A Beat and A Roar
[Author's note: trying to write this from my phone so excuse spelling/punctuation.]
On Wednesday night, the Devils showed something to the hometown fans that has become few and far between: a victory. The faintest pulse that gave the impression to at least this writer, that all might not be lost with this season.
From the opening face-off until the final horn, the Devils did to the Coyotes what so many teams have done to the all season long, take advantage of a team who came out a little flat, capitalized on their scoring chances, and while allowing a large number of shots, they were low percentage zones. They also had some luck on their side, as a Coyote shot went hard off the post after beating goaltender Martin Brodeur.
Patrik Elias continued his recent point streak, Ilya Kovalchuk tallied his first multi-goal game as a Devil, and even Mark Fayne registered his first career goal.
Tonight, the Devils seek their 2nd win in a row, which would be only their second time doing so all season long. This time, they'll have some moral support from the fans. For the first time, there will be an organized supporter's section bellowing chants, cheers and songs from the confines of section 209.
Whether you already have tickets, or are on the fence, try to make your way up to the section for a chant or two. Organizers will be in the section minutes after gates open so feel free to stop by, chat and share your passion for the team.
Faceoff is at 7:00, tickets are still available for the section, see the posts below for information on how to acquire your seats in this, the innaugrial game for the Supporters of 209.
Let's Go Devils!
On Wednesday night, the Devils showed something to the hometown fans that has become few and far between: a victory. The faintest pulse that gave the impression to at least this writer, that all might not be lost with this season.
From the opening face-off until the final horn, the Devils did to the Coyotes what so many teams have done to the all season long, take advantage of a team who came out a little flat, capitalized on their scoring chances, and while allowing a large number of shots, they were low percentage zones. They also had some luck on their side, as a Coyote shot went hard off the post after beating goaltender Martin Brodeur.
Patrik Elias continued his recent point streak, Ilya Kovalchuk tallied his first multi-goal game as a Devil, and even Mark Fayne registered his first career goal.
Tonight, the Devils seek their 2nd win in a row, which would be only their second time doing so all season long. This time, they'll have some moral support from the fans. For the first time, there will be an organized supporter's section bellowing chants, cheers and songs from the confines of section 209.
Whether you already have tickets, or are on the fence, try to make your way up to the section for a chant or two. Organizers will be in the section minutes after gates open so feel free to stop by, chat and share your passion for the team.
Faceoff is at 7:00, tickets are still available for the section, see the posts below for information on how to acquire your seats in this, the innaugrial game for the Supporters of 209.
Let's Go Devils!
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
The Official 209 Chant List
Here is the collection of chants which will be utilized for the 12/17 game vs. Nashville:
1) Lets go Devils
Lets go Devils! [clap clap clap-clap-clap]
Lets go Devils! [clap clap clap-clap-clap]
Lets go Devils! [clap clap clap-clap-clap]
2) Following an opposing penalty
YOU! YOU! YOU! OOOOOOOOOOOOOH! YOU CANT DO THAT! [clap clap clap-clap-clap]
YOU CANT DO THAT! [clap clap clap-clap-clap]
YOU CANT DO THAT! [clap clap clap-clap-clap]
3) Following a Devils Penalty: Kill
Kill! [horn] Kill! [horn] Kill! [horn]
4) After a good save by the goalie:
MARTY! (CLAP CLAP) MARTY! (CLAP CLAP)
-or-
HEB-BERG (CLAP CLAP) HED-BERG (CLAP CLAP)
5) 1 - nottttttttthing, Newwwww Jerseyyyyyyyyyyy. This can be done anytime shortly after we score a goal and we could change it to any score as long we don't give up a goal. like It's 3-nothingggggg, etc. [This may be altered to fix 2-1 leads, etc.]
6) Follow the 208 chant, which is Yeahhhhh Yeahhhhh Yeahhhhh WOOOOO just like the Rolling Stones Song Brown Sugar. This will be done right after we score, when they finish playing the hey song.
7) After a Devils Goal
Yell the name of the player [first or last, or both] followed by clap-clap or clap clap clap-clap-clap.
(ex. Zub-rus! clap-clap or Tra-vis Za-jac clap clap clap-clap-clap]
8) Late 3rd period [about 90 seconds left], if Devils are winning by more than 1:
Call/answer
I
I believe
I believe that
I believe that we
[pause, then together]
I BELIEVE THAT WE HAVE WON [x’s 5]
[NOTE: This chant can/will be modified for use earlier in the game. change "HAVE WON" to "WILL WIN."]
9) If there is a stoppage after the “I believe” chant but before the final horn
[Call/answer, pointing towards subject]
Is that not the scoreboard? Yes that is the scoreboard!
Is that not the number [Devils’ Score]? Yes that is the number [same]!
Is that not the number [Opp. Score]? Yes that is the number [same]!
Is that not the winning team? Yes that is the winning team!
Is that not the losing team? Yes that is the winning team!
[Together]
WINNING TEAM! LOSING TEAM! WINNING TEAM! LOSING TEAM!
10) "We Love Ya"
We Love ya, We love ya, We love ya
And anywhere you skate we will follow, we'll follow, we'll follow
'Cause we support the Devils, the Devils, the Devils,
And that's the way we like it, we like it, we like it.
Oh woahhhh oh woahhhh oh woahhhhh (repeat line)
1) Lets go Devils
Lets go Devils! [clap clap clap-clap-clap]
Lets go Devils! [clap clap clap-clap-clap]
Lets go Devils! [clap clap clap-clap-clap]
2) Following an opposing penalty
YOU! YOU! YOU! OOOOOOOOOOOOOH! YOU CANT DO THAT! [clap clap clap-clap-clap]
YOU CANT DO THAT! [clap clap clap-clap-clap]
YOU CANT DO THAT! [clap clap clap-clap-clap]
3) Following a Devils Penalty: Kill
Kill! [horn] Kill! [horn] Kill! [horn]
4) After a good save by the goalie:
MARTY! (CLAP CLAP) MARTY! (CLAP CLAP)
-or-
HEB-BERG (CLAP CLAP) HED-BERG (CLAP CLAP)
5) 1 - nottttttttthing, Newwwww Jerseyyyyyyyyyyy. This can be done anytime shortly after we score a goal and we could change it to any score as long we don't give up a goal. like It's 3-nothingggggg, etc. [This may be altered to fix 2-1 leads, etc.]
6) Follow the 208 chant, which is Yeahhhhh Yeahhhhh Yeahhhhh WOOOOO just like the Rolling Stones Song Brown Sugar. This will be done right after we score, when they finish playing the hey song.
7) After a Devils Goal
Yell the name of the player [first or last, or both] followed by clap-clap or clap clap clap-clap-clap.
(ex. Zub-rus! clap-clap or Tra-vis Za-jac clap clap clap-clap-clap]
8) Late 3rd period [about 90 seconds left], if Devils are winning by more than 1:
Call/answer
I
I believe
I believe that
I believe that we
[pause, then together]
I BELIEVE THAT WE HAVE WON [x’s 5]
[NOTE: This chant can/will be modified for use earlier in the game. change "HAVE WON" to "WILL WIN."]
9) If there is a stoppage after the “I believe” chant but before the final horn
[Call/answer, pointing towards subject]
Is that not the scoreboard? Yes that is the scoreboard!
Is that not the number [Devils’ Score]? Yes that is the number [same]!
Is that not the number [Opp. Score]? Yes that is the number [same]!
Is that not the winning team? Yes that is the winning team!
Is that not the losing team? Yes that is the winning team!
[Together]
WINNING TEAM! LOSING TEAM! WINNING TEAM! LOSING TEAM!
10) "We Love Ya"
We Love ya, We love ya, We love ya
And anywhere you skate we will follow, we'll follow, we'll follow
'Cause we support the Devils, the Devils, the Devils,
And that's the way we like it, we like it, we like it.
Oh woahhhh oh woahhhh oh woahhhhh (repeat line)
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
The First Official Supporter Section?
Every fan base has, at some point during their season, held a discussion of whether or not it may be possible have a group of the most passionate fans centralized in one section.
The topic is a staple at least once a season for every professional sports franchise, but outside of soccer [or if you prefer, football] it never really comes to fruition. One could argue, however, that in Canada, every seat in every Canadian arena is one giant supporter section. But in the United States, its an idea that comes, grows some legs, but then fades away back into the thought caverns of the fans.
A group of New Jersey Devils fans seek to introduce a new tradition this Friday night, and surprisingly, the organization is behind them.
About a month ago, the idea floated out there, “Would you be interested in being a part of a supporter section at the Rock?” The question was posed by NJDevs.com member, Satan’s Hockey. A month later, with a warm reception by the users of the website, the fans will meet in section 209 of the Prudential Center for the debut of the Devils Supporters Section.
While they have not tabbed themselves with a name, the idea is simple, support the team, no matter how bad things seem. The rules are simple: You must be passionate, you must be willing to chant, cheer and do whatever it takes to generate some electricity into the crowd, and [most importantly] you must wear RED!
Fans who have never experienced the type of atmosphere which will happen in this section should not fear, as there are talks of creating chant lists, but the chants will undoubtedly be simple enough for everyone to join in. The organizers and members who plan on attending are also pledging to keep chants clean, and as free of vulgarity as possible.
Coming from a school where we had to build our supporter section from the ground up, I have seen the steps this will need to go through in order to be a success. There will be days where the fans will be scarce [UB vs. Kent State, November 2006, 14 fans in the section] and days when it will be overwhelmingly packed [Home opener, 1 year later, largest student turnout in UB history] but the members of NJDevs.com are on the right path and going through the proper channels to ensure it will have a fighting chance at working.
If you have nothing to do on a Friday night in December, and are looking to have a good, entertaining time, then you should seriously consider spending a few bucks and heading to the Prudential Center. You could witness the birth of something historical in section 209, or, if you so choose, could be a part of that yourself.
Go to the Official Thread at NJDevs.com for more information about the section, and how to purchase your tickets [at a supporter section discounted rate, by the way] and be a part of the 209 Supporters Section.
Let’s Go Devils!
The topic is a staple at least once a season for every professional sports franchise, but outside of soccer [or if you prefer, football] it never really comes to fruition. One could argue, however, that in Canada, every seat in every Canadian arena is one giant supporter section. But in the United States, its an idea that comes, grows some legs, but then fades away back into the thought caverns of the fans.
A group of New Jersey Devils fans seek to introduce a new tradition this Friday night, and surprisingly, the organization is behind them.
About a month ago, the idea floated out there, “Would you be interested in being a part of a supporter section at the Rock?” The question was posed by NJDevs.com member, Satan’s Hockey. A month later, with a warm reception by the users of the website, the fans will meet in section 209 of the Prudential Center for the debut of the Devils Supporters Section.
While they have not tabbed themselves with a name, the idea is simple, support the team, no matter how bad things seem. The rules are simple: You must be passionate, you must be willing to chant, cheer and do whatever it takes to generate some electricity into the crowd, and [most importantly] you must wear RED!
Fans who have never experienced the type of atmosphere which will happen in this section should not fear, as there are talks of creating chant lists, but the chants will undoubtedly be simple enough for everyone to join in. The organizers and members who plan on attending are also pledging to keep chants clean, and as free of vulgarity as possible.
Coming from a school where we had to build our supporter section from the ground up, I have seen the steps this will need to go through in order to be a success. There will be days where the fans will be scarce [UB vs. Kent State, November 2006, 14 fans in the section] and days when it will be overwhelmingly packed [Home opener, 1 year later, largest student turnout in UB history] but the members of NJDevs.com are on the right path and going through the proper channels to ensure it will have a fighting chance at working.
If you have nothing to do on a Friday night in December, and are looking to have a good, entertaining time, then you should seriously consider spending a few bucks and heading to the Prudential Center. You could witness the birth of something historical in section 209, or, if you so choose, could be a part of that yourself.
Go to the Official Thread at NJDevs.com for more information about the section, and how to purchase your tickets [at a supporter section discounted rate, by the way] and be a part of the 209 Supporters Section.
Let’s Go Devils!
Sunday, December 12, 2010
The Nightmare Continues
The night started off pretty well for this particular fan.
Tappan to Newark in under 40 minutes.
Inside the arena in less than 5, but my friend and I realized we had forgotten our coats to donate to the Devils’ coat drive. Still though, no big deal.
We both signed up for Score-O, got some decent food for the considerable price [same as last time but the portion seemed much larger], got to our seats which were well worth the $40 price tag on each.
During warm ups, I was selected to be one of the shooters, and thought, wow, tonight is shaping up to be a good night.
That is, until the opening faceoff. 17 seconds later Tomas Holmstrom’s harmless toss on net banked off the post, off Brodeur and into the net. 1-0 Detroit.
Okay, not a big deal, they just need to reset, re-focus and use the remaining 59 minutes 43 seconds to tie it up.
That is until about 90 seconds later, Daniel Cleary broke in on the left side and ripped a shot over Brodeur’s glove hand, off the post, off the crossbar and into the net, 2-0 Detroit.
That was all you needed to know to determine how this one would play out.
Their even strength is atrocious, they continue to play dumb hockey. Players are right, the effort is there, but their brains are not. They aren’t playing smart, team hockey and instead playing on their own not thinking of one another.
The only exception to this atrocity is the power play, where for the first time in a long while, the Devils are finally firing on all cylinders with the man advantage. While they are not scoring on every single one, this is not NHL 2011 after all, they’re nearly 50% over the last 3 games, including 1 for 3 last night.
Something needs to change badly with this team. Be it the coach, be it some player movements [I’m looking at you, Mark Fayne, who should be on his way back to Albany right this second], they need a shakeup in some form immediately.
Oh and for the record, I hit the plastic barrier placed on the mouth of the net on the first shot, missed slightly wide right on the 2nd. There were no winners out of the 4 of us last night. But had the barrier not have been there, we as a group would have outscored the Devils.
Tappan to Newark in under 40 minutes.
Inside the arena in less than 5, but my friend and I realized we had forgotten our coats to donate to the Devils’ coat drive. Still though, no big deal.
We both signed up for Score-O, got some decent food for the considerable price [same as last time but the portion seemed much larger], got to our seats which were well worth the $40 price tag on each.
During warm ups, I was selected to be one of the shooters, and thought, wow, tonight is shaping up to be a good night.
That is, until the opening faceoff. 17 seconds later Tomas Holmstrom’s harmless toss on net banked off the post, off Brodeur and into the net. 1-0 Detroit.
Okay, not a big deal, they just need to reset, re-focus and use the remaining 59 minutes 43 seconds to tie it up.
That is until about 90 seconds later, Daniel Cleary broke in on the left side and ripped a shot over Brodeur’s glove hand, off the post, off the crossbar and into the net, 2-0 Detroit.
That was all you needed to know to determine how this one would play out.
Their even strength is atrocious, they continue to play dumb hockey. Players are right, the effort is there, but their brains are not. They aren’t playing smart, team hockey and instead playing on their own not thinking of one another.
The only exception to this atrocity is the power play, where for the first time in a long while, the Devils are finally firing on all cylinders with the man advantage. While they are not scoring on every single one, this is not NHL 2011 after all, they’re nearly 50% over the last 3 games, including 1 for 3 last night.
Something needs to change badly with this team. Be it the coach, be it some player movements [I’m looking at you, Mark Fayne, who should be on his way back to Albany right this second], they need a shakeup in some form immediately.
Oh and for the record, I hit the plastic barrier placed on the mouth of the net on the first shot, missed slightly wide right on the 2nd. There were no winners out of the 4 of us last night. But had the barrier not have been there, we as a group would have outscored the Devils.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
One Third of the Way Through
I don’t even know what to write right now. Words cannot describe this season, they just can’t.
There are so many clichés, so many quips that are fitting, but I just can’t bring myself to type them.
The only thing keeping the Devils from being the absolute worst team in hockey are the Islanders, and they cannot even beat them when they face one another.
There is rampant speculation through the fan-base that there’s an unholy bias from the league towards the team. Fines and punishments from the summer coupled with a large discrepancy between calls for and against fuel these conspiracy theories.
I, however, refuse to buy into this. It cannot be that elaborate of a scheme orchestrated by Gary Bettman.
To put it simply, the Devils are playing dumb hockey. The team as a whole is making awful decisions, from as high up as the general manager to any one of the players on ice, bad decisions are being made, one after another.
Behind the scenes, the general manager is apparently sitting on his hands while the era of successful, borderline dynasty, comes to a screeching halt a mere three months after being touted as one of the strongest contenders for the Stanley Cup. A man who would never accept anything less than the absolute best effort from his team and players has suddenly taken on an air of complacency with underachievement and poor effort.
The coach, while in his rookie year at the NHL level, has also taken a bull-headed approach to the struggles. As the losses mounted, rather than bring about physical punishments, he decided to attack the problem cerebrally. Film sessions, closed door meetings, and other methods clearly failed to gain the players heart, attention and effort. He also refuses to change up a system which is horrendously failing and is beyond flaw. Staring at the ceiling will only get you so far before one would make adjustments instead of throwing the same garbage out there night after night with the hopes of something turning into gold.
Last on the list are the players. The overly talented bunch who apparently decided they’d rather not play the organized, smart hockey they used to be synonymous with, and instead play the selfish undisciplined brand. Blind passes to no one, electing to pass to a man in triple coverage rather than rip a shot on goal to create a rebound, and complete lack of accountability anywhere is killing the team.
Defenseman are failing miserably on their coverage assignments and are not playing with aggression to demand the respect of opposing forwards and make them think twice about trying to get to the dirty areas. The offense refuses to even tread into high percentage areas for what looks like a fear of being hit. They pull up and opt for the outside, low percentage shots through crowds of two or three defenders. When they do decide to crash the net and actually go on the attack, they can and have shown the ability to score. But those instances have become few and far between.
People will blame devastating injuries taking key cogs out of the machine that used to run with such efficiency, it will irritate the hell out of opposing teams. Now, instead of analysts asking “how are the Devils able to defy the odds year after year” they now finally can say “see, we told you so.”
The culture around this team is hurting badly. Fans are losing hope and patience quickly.
It is time for the team to stop letting the game come to them, playing not to lose, and for once, go out, play all out and take the game away from their competition.
With the worst first-third in franchise history over, will the real New Jersey Devils please step up for the final two frames?
They may not make the playoffs, but if they could make a run to be within contention of the final spot, I think many in the Devil Land would be satisfied that they almost salvaged this season.
Only time will tell, but they need to get off on the right foot tonight versus Detroit.
There are so many clichés, so many quips that are fitting, but I just can’t bring myself to type them.
The only thing keeping the Devils from being the absolute worst team in hockey are the Islanders, and they cannot even beat them when they face one another.
There is rampant speculation through the fan-base that there’s an unholy bias from the league towards the team. Fines and punishments from the summer coupled with a large discrepancy between calls for and against fuel these conspiracy theories.
I, however, refuse to buy into this. It cannot be that elaborate of a scheme orchestrated by Gary Bettman.
To put it simply, the Devils are playing dumb hockey. The team as a whole is making awful decisions, from as high up as the general manager to any one of the players on ice, bad decisions are being made, one after another.
Behind the scenes, the general manager is apparently sitting on his hands while the era of successful, borderline dynasty, comes to a screeching halt a mere three months after being touted as one of the strongest contenders for the Stanley Cup. A man who would never accept anything less than the absolute best effort from his team and players has suddenly taken on an air of complacency with underachievement and poor effort.
The coach, while in his rookie year at the NHL level, has also taken a bull-headed approach to the struggles. As the losses mounted, rather than bring about physical punishments, he decided to attack the problem cerebrally. Film sessions, closed door meetings, and other methods clearly failed to gain the players heart, attention and effort. He also refuses to change up a system which is horrendously failing and is beyond flaw. Staring at the ceiling will only get you so far before one would make adjustments instead of throwing the same garbage out there night after night with the hopes of something turning into gold.
Last on the list are the players. The overly talented bunch who apparently decided they’d rather not play the organized, smart hockey they used to be synonymous with, and instead play the selfish undisciplined brand. Blind passes to no one, electing to pass to a man in triple coverage rather than rip a shot on goal to create a rebound, and complete lack of accountability anywhere is killing the team.
Defenseman are failing miserably on their coverage assignments and are not playing with aggression to demand the respect of opposing forwards and make them think twice about trying to get to the dirty areas. The offense refuses to even tread into high percentage areas for what looks like a fear of being hit. They pull up and opt for the outside, low percentage shots through crowds of two or three defenders. When they do decide to crash the net and actually go on the attack, they can and have shown the ability to score. But those instances have become few and far between.
People will blame devastating injuries taking key cogs out of the machine that used to run with such efficiency, it will irritate the hell out of opposing teams. Now, instead of analysts asking “how are the Devils able to defy the odds year after year” they now finally can say “see, we told you so.”
The culture around this team is hurting badly. Fans are losing hope and patience quickly.
It is time for the team to stop letting the game come to them, playing not to lose, and for once, go out, play all out and take the game away from their competition.
With the worst first-third in franchise history over, will the real New Jersey Devils please step up for the final two frames?
They may not make the playoffs, but if they could make a run to be within contention of the final spot, I think many in the Devil Land would be satisfied that they almost salvaged this season.
Only time will tell, but they need to get off on the right foot tonight versus Detroit.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)