lets get kraken

By: Jordan M

            As many of you may know, and some of you may be learning, the Seattle Kraken are the newest NHL franchise expanding the league to 32 teams now. Although the Kraken did not have a stellar inaugurational season to say the least, I enjoyed every moment of seeing hockey history be made. Whether it was the first game on October 12th or the first franchise goal by Ryan Donato, I have quietly watched from afar excited to see what was next. I had the privilege of attending a game at Climate Pledge Arena last Friday and I have one word for you: Wow. The arena blew away any and all expectations I had and here’s why:

            I have been to a handful of arenas at this point and have seen newer arenas like T-Mobile arena and have seen older arenas like TD Garden. I have yet to explore an arena anything like the home of the Kraken though. I saw the Climate Pledge Living Wall with my own two eyes and was left in awe. Ceiling to floor you are surrounded by greens making it the world’s first net-zero carbon certified arena. The wall was a sight to see and left me feeling refreshed before heading to my seat. Another fact worth mentioning is that the Kraken are paperless and only offer electronic tickets that also double as a free transit pass to encourage smarter alternative transportation options. I love the fact that this unique arena brings thousands of people together yet is doing justice for the environment at the same time.

            The fan experience at this venue is hard to beat. The arena isn’t even in the top 20 largest arenas there are yet the design and layout had me feeling like the stands were never ending. As far as the eye could see was an ocean of passionate fans and not a single open seat even in the nosebleeds. I witnessed thousands chanting “GRUUUUU” for every save their goal Philipp Grubauer and heard the arena erupt with each goal made. The atmosphere was nothing short of impressive and could convince anyone to become a diehard fan in no time.

            Take it from me, this franchise and this arena have an exciting future ahead. I think the Kraken are going to make some huge moves during off-season and will continue to improve the already near perfect venue they have. If you ever find yourself in the Seattle area, do yourself a favor and attend a game. It will cost you a pretty penny but I promise you will thank me later