If you are a Detroit Red Wings fan, you have been in Joe Louis Arena more times than you can count. The beginning of hockey season for fans is always an exciting and thrilling time. Summer is painful without hockey games to watch every night, and when fall rolls around, hockey fans are eager to be back at it again. Starting in October, fans come from all over to watch their favorite players in action. However, this year's home opener was different for many. A lot of emotions and memories were triggered as fans walked up the stairs into the arena for a final opening night. The Red Wings played their last season opener at Joe Louis Arena this past week. They defeated the Ottawa Senators 5-1 with Mike Green scoring his first hat trick. Fans couldn't have ask for a better opening night to remember.
Joe Louis Arena was built in 1979, named after the former boxer and heavy-weight champion, Joe Louis, who grew up in the Detroit Area. For the past 38 years, fans have witnessed amazing talent pass through the arena. It has been home to many legendary players like Steve Yzerman, Chris Chelios and Nick Lindstrom to outstanding recent rookies like Dylan Larkin. The arena has been home to four Stanley Cups and the Red Wings have clinched the playoffs in 23 consecutive seasons. It is safe to say history has been made many times in this arena.
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A memorial logo will be worn by all Red Wings players throughout this season (2016-2017). It reads "Farewell Season: The Joe" with four stars representing the number of Stanley Cups won in the arena. Check them out.
This is not the end for the Detroit Red Wings by any means. The new arena, Little Caesars Arena, will open in time for the 2017-2018 season. The Red Wings will have a new home and hopefully it will bring them good luck and success. Who knows, maybe more Stanley Cups will be won here than at Joe Louis? Fingers crossed.
Although endings are always sad and it is hard to let go, fans are excited for this new beginning that will soon be upon them. Let's wish the Red Wings the best of luck as they begin their season. Take it all in Hockey Town, and let's say farewell to one last final season at the Joe.
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