European fans go wild during Swedish Elite game
For decades that National Hockey League has been unable to get out of their own way in many respects including promoting the game and their brand effectively, especially in markets like Arizona but if it wasn't apparent that they do things a little better and a little bigger in Europe, the following should show Gary Bettman and the owners in which he works for in regards to the member clubs within the league that there should be a wake up call to game day operations across North America because they could be run a lot differently and a heck of a lot better.
Similarly to the frenzy that soccer fans throughout Europe bring to the stadiums and matches throughout the continent, hockey fans have taken that experience and brought it indoors while cheering for their favourite teams, such as what is seen below during a second-division Swedish league game recently.
Without giving Gary Bettman too much credit(because he deserves very little), he has overseen the growth of the National Hockey League since he became the first commissioner of the league back in 1993. His vision for expansion has worked in many markets, however failed in others which unfortunately required relocation once and has caused headaches for at least one more in terms of sustainability.
It may make sense for the league to look at how other leagues across the world continue to engage with their fanbase to make coming to the rink an enjoyable experience that anyone can enjoy. Until then, scenes like those shared above very well could be a pipe dream for years to come.
| POLL | ||
Have you been privileged to watch a hockey game in Europe live? | ||
| Yes | 32 | 20.3 % |
| No | 126 | 79.7 % |
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