Sens Army marches into playoffs
Posted Apr 11, 2012 11:09:27 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
OTTAWA – Senators fans from far and wide are pulling out the red hats, scarves and, of course, their Sens jerseys.
Over 100 marched down Elgin Street Tuesday, in anticipation of our team’s quest for Lord Stanley’s Cup.
They face off Thursday in game one of their best-of-seven series against the New York Rangers and the Sens Army couldn’t be more excited.
Mary Ann told 1310News she’s been a die hard Senators fan for years and believes they’ll make Ottawa proud this post season.
“We are going to go deep into the playoffs,” said Mary Ann. “We are the comeback kids and we are going to surprise everyone.”
Ben told 1310News he’s pleased to see his city’s team move into the post season.
“I’m glad for them, very much so,” he said. “We’ve only got two of seven (Canadian Teams) that made the playoffs, so hey, you better be happy.”
And even though he’s not traditionally a Sens fan, Ben said he will be cheering the boys on.
“Why not? I’ve been a Leafs fan for years. Oh well, that’s the way it is. I’m still waiting on a cup. I’d like to see (the Sens) go all the way. I don’t think they will though,” he said.
While he and some other fans remain cautiously optimistic, the Sens Army is getting out the big guns, decorating the Sens Mile on Elgin. They held a launch and flag raising at City Hall at 11:30 Tuesday morning.
Dozens, including Sens President Cyril Leeder and Spartacat showed up at Marion Dewar Plaza to show their support for the team.
Mayor Jim Watson, wearing his heritage Sens jersey, hopped aboard a zamboni and drove it down the Sens mile to a pep rally at the St. Louis Bar and Grill.
He told the crowd his predictions for the Senators first round match up against the Rangers.
“The sun is shining and the Senators are going to win it in six!” he said. “That’s my humble prediction.”
Watson changed his prediction to Sens in five and later tweeted, “Built up greater confidence as I was driving the zamboni and more and more fans joined the parade!!”
The surprising success of the Senators is not just good news for the franchise, but also for the businesses along Elgin Street.
Keith Loiselle is the owner of Woody’s Urban Pub on Elgin and also chairs the Elgin Street Business Improvement Association Steering Committee.
He tells 1310News most of the pubs in Sens Mile are standing room only during the games.
“All the pubs and those who have TVs really get strong turnouts and it builds as the playoffs go on,” he said. “The crowds get bigger and excitement grows with that as well and even the non-Sens games, the place is packed as well.”
Follow Sarah Anderson on Twitter at @1310Sarah
Follow Craig Smith on Twitter at @1310Craig
