Hockey Fans Throw Octopus On Ice
Hockey has been a beloved sport in the United States for decades, and with it comes many traditions that make the game even more exciting. One such tradition is the throwing of an octopus on the ice by fans. This practice has been around since the 1950s and has become an iconic symbol of the sport.
What is the Origin of Throwing an Octopus on the Ice?
The tradition of throwing an octopus on the ice during a hockey game began in Detroit, Michigan in 1952. During that time, the Detroit Red Wings were one of the best teams in the league, and they were on their way to winning their fourth Stanley Cup championship. Two Detroit brothers, Pete and Jerry Cusimano, owned a fish market and decided to show their support for the team by throwing an octopus onto the ice during a playoff game. They believed that the eight legs of the octopus symbolized the eight wins that were required to win the Stanley Cup at the time.
The team went on to win the championship that year, and the tradition of throwing an octopus on the ice during Red Wings games was born. It has since become a beloved symbol of the team and the city of Detroit, with fans continuing to throw octopuses onto the ice during playoff games to show their support.
How Do Fans Get Octopuses into the Stadium?
One of the questions that often arises with the tradition of throwing an octopus on the ice is how fans are able to get octopuses into the stadium. After all, it's not exactly a common item to bring to a hockey game.
In Detroit, fans are not actually allowed to bring live octopuses into the stadium. Instead, they often purchase them from local fish markets or grocery stores and then sneak them into the arena. Once inside, fans will then strategically place the octopus in their clothing or bags, so they are not detected by security.
Is Throwing an Octopus on the Ice Legal?
While throwing an octopus on the ice during a hockey game might seem like a harmless tradition, it can actually be considered illegal in some states. In Michigan, for example, it is technically illegal to throw an octopus on the ice at a sports arena. The law was passed in 2011 and was designed to prevent the mistreatment of animals.
However, despite the law, many fans continue to throw octopuses onto the ice during Detroit Red Wings games. The team has even gone so far as to make it a part of their pre-game ceremonies during playoff games.
Conclusion
While the tradition of throwing an octopus on the ice during a hockey game might seem strange to some, it has become an integral part of the sport for many fans. Although it can be considered illegal in some states, the tradition continues to live on and has become an iconic symbol of the Detroit Red Wings and the city of Detroit itself.
