Cleveland Monsters color commentator and former Cleveland Lumberjacks center Jock Callander explains what makes this a great hockey town.
Long Legacy: Professional hockey in Cleveland dates back to 1929 when the International Hockey League’s Cleveland Indians played at Elysium Arena. “I didn’t get here until the ’90s,” says Callander. “But I’ve heard all sorts of stories about the old [Elysium] stadium and how packed it was.”
Passionate Fandom: Although the Monsters are a minor-league affiliate, competition-hungry Cleveland fans bring the same fervor to the games that they would for the Cleveland Browns, Indians or Cavaliers, especially during last spring’s playoff run. “The atmosphere in [The Q] was incredible,” says Callander.
Natural Fit: Local youth hockey programs such as the Cleveland Suburban Hockey League, which started in 1971, give kids a chance to learn the game at a young age. “It’s a great indoor sport for when the weather’s cold,” he says. “Plus, there are lots of great leagues for adults that still want to play.”
Guess What? Cleveland is a Hockey Town
From passionate fans to a long legacy, Cleveland Monsters color commentator Jock Callander fills us in.
sports
10:00 AM EST
October 13, 2016