I had the privilege of attending the Winter Classic Press Conference this afternoon at Heinz Field. As is typically the case, the NHL did a great job with the event. The presser featured words from Doc Emrick, Gary Bettman, Art Rooney II, David Morehouse, Caps brass and local politicians.
It would have been great to be there under any circumstances, but having the presser on the field with some basic faux hockey boards to show where the rink will be situated was a nice touch. The stage was at “center ice” and there were boards and glass up behind it.
Members of the panel spoke from the dais, before media scrums, photo ops and a skills competition for the players. Representing the teams were Sidney Crosby, Pascal Dupuis, Max Talbot, David Steckel and Mike Knuble.
The NHL brought out a ramp that looked to be made of an off ice training substance. The players started at what I believe was the 50 yard line and had to fire pucks through the uprights. Looked harder than it sounded as only a few pucks managed to make their way through. Of course the competitive nature of the boys took over and they followed each misfire with grunts and groans, but a fun time was had by all…
I will have some audio from the event later, but wanted to share some of pictures from the day. Hope you enjoy!
– The view as we hit the field and approached the presser area.
The Winter Classic logos hanging in Heinz Field…this was in the distance behind the stage.
– Sidney Crosby, Pascal Dupuis and Max Talbot
Enjoy my full photo set over at Flickr.
