CALGARY – The energy sector may be struggling, but the energy coming off the ice at Calgary’s Saddledome is a healthy distraction, with the Calgary Hitmen in the playoffs and the Flames enjoying playoff potential.
Fans are cheering on the Hitmen as they start the first round of their post-season; and with nine games left in the regular season, Calgarians are hoping the Flames will cling to their playoff spot.
The Red Mile hasn’t been ignited since the last time the Flames made the playoffs in 2009—also the last year the Hitmen won a championship.
“This city takes on a different atmosphere, especially with the Flames in playoffs,” said Brent Kisio, Hitmen associate coach. “You can’t help but feel the vibe and get excited for that time of year.”
Kisio says the two teams are feeding off each other’s success.
“We’re going into playoffs, and the Flames are fighting for their lives, but it’s a good stress,” he said. “There’s been other times around here where we’ve been struggling or the Flames have been struggling, and one team is maybe walking on egg shells.”
Hitmen players say watching the pros deal with the stress is inspiring them to stay focused.
“It’s cool to see their attitude towards the game and their focus, and I think that kind of influences us a little bit on the other side of things,” said defenceman Jake Bean.
Forward Carsen Twarynski said it’s inspiring just to see Flames players in the hallway, “and see that could be any of us in a matter of time from four to five years.”
Calgarians are hoping by then, the Flames will have erased memories of the current playoff drought.
The Hitmen start the first round of their playoffs Friday against Kootenay Ice.
With files from Erika Tucker
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