by Hal SpivackFiled under: Canadiens, Capitals, Flames, Penguins, Winter Classic
The NHL officially confirmed Wednesday that outdoor hockey will be returning to Canada for the first time since 2003. As expected, the Montreal Canadiens and Calgary Flames will be playing in the second Heritage Classic, on Feb. 20 at McMahon Stadium, the home of the CFL's Calgary Stampeders. The press conference took place on the field of McMahon Stadium in Calgary, AB. It will be the second outdoor NHL game in Canadian history.
"The roots of our game are in Canada," commissioner Gary Bettman noted. "And the roots of our game emanate from frozen ponds and backyard rinks, again, in Canada."
The 2003 Heritage Classic was the first outdoor game in NHL history. The Canadiens faced the Oilers at Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton. The game was played in below-zero temperatures in front of 57,167 fans. "It's great to be coming back," Bettman said.
In addition to the Heritage Classic itself, the commissioner noted there will be ancillary events set up to complement the game. "We are excited to say the least to be here and part of this community," Bettman noted.
Current Flames' defenseman Steve Staios played in the original Heritage Classic for the Edmonton Oilers. He took part in the press conference on Wednesday as well. "The event was bigger than the game itself, Staios said. "I feel fortunate to get another chance to play in it."
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