The AHL‘s latest team Springfield Thunderbirds took to the Mass Mutual Center ice for their debut in front of a packed house containing 6793 folks.
The fans greeted their new team, which almost wasn’t until a last minute deal was worked out to buy out Portland Pirates and move them a little south and west to where the league office is located.
Minor league hockey has been a staple in the city since 1926, when Springfield Indians took to the ice.
They won 7 championships with the last one in 1990/1991, played for a few more seasons before relinquishing the franchise, but new ownership stepped right in to fill the void and Springfield Falcons were born.
When NHL affiliate Arizona Coyotes decided to move their farm team closer to home, it was close to curtains but pro hockey was once again saved.
The home squad, won their opener 5-4 with two 3rd period goals to tie it and the overtime game-winner to send the fans home happy, hopefully hungry for more.
They are the farm club of Florida Panthers.