Playing outdoor hockey is always a great time. Growing up in Canada, being able to play hockey outdoors is one of those great things to do as a kid (maybe kids just don’t feel as cold, but it’s definitely much more enjoyable when young). I think when you’re young and playing outdoor it’s always a dream to be able to look around and see people watching while getting the cool atmosphere of an outdoor rink. There’s something so magical about playing outside that really makes it feel like nothing else matters.

I think playing in these big outdoor stadiums will be surreal, as you’ll look around and see tens of thousands of people all around while you’re at the center of this field playing hockey. I do enjoy the outdoor games, but having too many of them also kind of ruins the appeal. I know it’s a great marketing tool, but it also kind of takes players out of their typical rhythm when not playing in a traditional atmosphere. I’ll be sure to soak it all in, enjoy the game and the opportunity, but as long as this is a once in a while type of thing, I’m ok with it.