Sens open shortened training camp with support from fans
Posted Jan 13, 2013 04:29:10 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
OTTAWA, ON – The stands at Scotiabank Place were filled with hockey jerseys once again on Sunday afternoon, as fans filed into the arena to watch the first day of Sens training camp.
Hockey-lovers cheered and waved signs, as they watched the players take the ice, for the first time since the lock-out.
“I’m just a happy person because … everyone here is so excited to see hockey back,” said Dan, who watched the drills and scrimmages with a friend.
Before practice began, team owner Eugene Melnyk held a news conference along with Coach Paul MacLean and Captain Daniel Alfredsson.
Melnyk apologized and urged fans to forgive the team.
“I’m really sorry for all of us, myself included, the players, everybody in the hockey community, because we had to endure this for the last four months,” said Melnyk.
The owner said he understood there was some “bitterness” but said angry fans who shun the team will miss out.
“You’re going to want to be a part of this because I’m telling you – this is going to be a great, great team,” said Melnyk. “I just want you guys back.”
The plea for forgiveness was received well by fans at training camp.
Smiling and wearing their favourite jerseys, many hockey-lovers said they weren’t going to punish the team.
“You can’t stay mad at them,” said one fan, Zoe.
Her friend, Melissa, agreed.
“Even though we’re disappointed about what we missed … the fact is I love to watch hockey,” said Melissa.
“When it’s back, I’m not going to stop myself from watching just because I’m mad.”
