Everyone has their story for why they became a fan of the team that causes them so much joy, and sometimes pain. Although there might not always be an ah-ha moment, it’s usually in a time where the team is either having success or is likable based on the way they play or the personalities on the team.
It was 2006. I was ten years old, watching the post-lockout Sabres stun the NHL with their speed and stick handling ability. Before the lockout I didn’t even like hockey much. But I fell in love with that team. Ryan Miller, Daniel Briere, Chris Drury, Thomas Vanek. These were the players I grew up watching, the players whose names I would scream to my Dad after I finished taking in one of Rick Jeanneret’s goal celebrations. I cried at the end of the Hurricanes series, the only time sports have ever made me cry. I hope the next time that happens they’ll be tears of joy. I was parked in front of the TV during Sabres games that season, and I never really left.
Although there is a lot of excitement surrounding the future of the team, the Sabres right now aren’t that interesting. Unfortunately the youths of today likely will have to wait a few years before they can fall in love with a dazzling Buffalo team, so today we look back to better times (or better days, if we want to use an old Sabres reference).
There was once a time where we didn’t have to argue about whether or not we wanted the Sabres to win or lose. A time where we latched ourselves onto this team and began to call them our own. What moments or teams led you to become a Sabres fan? Was it a player, a goal, a fight? In a year where the ultimate goal is getting a top pick, the past may be the best place to look for uplifting Sabres moments.