Vibrant and unique are two words that come to mind when describing the atmosphere at the 2010 Camp Randall Outdoor Hockey Classic. The outdoor game was held for the first time ever at Camp Randall Staduim, where around 55,000 fans watched the third-ranked Badgers skate away with a 3-2 win over Michigan .
A classic mixture of both football and hockey chants swarmed the stadium making the frosty, 20 degree air seem harmless. Both Wisconsin and Michigan were playing very fast paced, up-tempo hockey. This was partly due to a high energy crowd, but also because of the cooler and thus, faster ice surface they were playing on.
Ranked third in the country, Wisconsin has been playing very solid hockey. A powerful fore check, coupled with a deep bench, have helped the Badgers earn top 5 credit. However, what won it for them on Saturday night was captializing on power play opportunities. Brendan Smith was able to net two power play goals in the final 6 minutes, not only giving Wisconsin the win, but also igniting a massive celebration in Madison.
With the largest crowd ever to attend a Wisconsin Badger hockey game and the second largest crowd ever to attend a colligate hockey game, The Hockey Classic was truly an amazing event for both players and fans alike. Hopefully Badger fans will see the University host another Hockey Classic at Camp Randall, until then keep an eye out for the Badgers in the post season.
The Camp Randall Outdoor Hockey Classic, proved to be great for the city, the school, but most importantly… the game of hockey.
14 February 2010 at 6:27 pm
Is there anything better than outdoor hockey?!
I think not.