Kraken make history in Seattle with city's first home NHL hockey game
SEATTLE - The Seattle Kraken lost 4–2 to the Vancouver Canucks, but it was not enough to sour the history being made at the Climate Pledge Arena Saturday night.
The first-ever home NHL game took place in Seattle with the Kraken hitting the ice at Climate Pledge taking on the Canucks.
Throughout town, signs of excitement were everywhere. Fans decked out in Kraken gear filled the streets, businesses held special events, and the Kraken flag flew high over the Space Needle.
"It’s going to be the first NHL game in Seattle, so I’m pretty excited about it," said Scott Pringle.
Pringle stood out among the hundreds of Kraken fans at Dick’s Drive-In, near Climate Pledge Arena, thanks to a massive, Kraken-shaped knit hat he wore.
Pringle left the celebration at Dick’s early to get to the arena, but plenty of other people hung out, listening to music and enjoying the big celebration for the historic day.
A few blocks away at Coltiva, fans prepared for the game in a milder setting, with pizza and drinks. However, the excitement for the big day was still the same.
"This is my dream come true," said Tamae Satsu.
Hockey is a huge part of Satsu’s life. She played on Japan's National team for ten seasons, including being a member of the 1998 Olympic team.
"Professional hockey, I never imagined this happening, coming true. It’s overwhelming today, I’m so excited," she said.
Some fans waited a good portion of their lives for this day.
"This is the day I’ve been looking forward to," said Dylan Gale.
When Gale first heard the NHL was coming to Seattle, he was eight years old.
Now, nearly a lifetime later, it’s finally here, and there was nothing going to stand in his way from seeing the Kraken play at home.
However, getting to the game wasn’t easy. Gale had to play in his own hockey game earlier in the day, which he says they won. Then, his family had to catch a flight from Kennewick to get to Seattle in time for puck drop.
Gale says it was all worth it.
"I’m really excited."
Unfortunately, the Kraken lost to the Vancouver Canucks 4 - 2. The Kraken are back on the ice at Climate Pledge Arena on Tuesday facing off against the Montreal Canadiens.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Climate Pledge Arena grand opening on Friday
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