With the NHL All Star Game coming up, I thought it would be appropriate that I post a few All Star Jerseys.
(click the picture to make bigger)
This is the jersey from the 2004-05 UHL All Star Game. While most of the US was toiling in hockey limbo, I was in Boston, with college hockey, nearby AHL teams, and a few odds and ends around. The UHL All Star Game fell on a Monday, so Meg and I got to attend. We made the trip up to Glens Falls, NY, and stayed the night in the same hotel as the visiting players, just a short walk to the arena. Downtown Glens Falls is small, but it has it’s charm. A little brew pub sits across the street from the pool hall, just down the street from the local coffee shop, which is across from the arena.
The All Star Game featured two games. The better attended of the two was the first, featuring the UHL Commissioners team versus the Adirondack Red Wings alumni. Now, here is what you may not know about Glens Falls, the UHL, and the local team, the Adirondack Frostbite. The Frostbite are (were, actually. They folded this past season) owned by Barry Melrose. Melrose also played for the Adirondack Red Wings, and has a home there. He bought the team with co-worker Steve Levy when it was in financial trouble. Melrose is considered close to sainthood around there. Melrose played for the Adirondack team that night, and some ESPN personalities were on the Commish’s team. I can say that Darren Pang was pretty good in net, but John Buccigross couldn’t play for crap. Whenever I hear about him skating, I remember this game, and usually chuckle.
About the jersey: The pattern on the bottom is from the Adirondack Frostbite jerseys. The Frostbite used to be called the IceHawks, but it was changed (it must have been a bit confusing when they played the Rockford IceHogs). The mascot is of a bear, which I never did fight. The skate lace was added by me, because I love the look. I love lace up jerseys, but the wimpy laces that come with them just don’t cut it. The shoulder patches are still pretty stiff, but I’m sure they will get there.
That is one angry looking bear. He must be angry because he is so cute.
Oh, and just so you know. My favorite place to see a game is Glens Falls. I don’t know why, but it’s true. Too bad there isn’t a team there this year.