The Springfield Thunderbirds once again proved that hockey in Springfield is thriving, both on and off the ice, as the team sold out the MassMutual Center for Milan Lucic’s debut last night.
The excitement surrounding Lucic’s return to professional hockey created quite the buzz in Downtown Springfield, with a packed arena and a noticeable buzz surrounding Springfield hockey both in-person and online. Springfield lost to the Bridgeport Islanders 6-2 last night, in front of yet another sold out crowd of 6,793 at the MassMutual Center.
Springfield continues to establish themselves as one of the premier business operations in the American Hockey League. From creative marketing campaigns to strong community engagement, the franchise has consistently used big moments to build momentum. The addition of Lucic, even temporarily, was a perfect example of the team’s ability to continue to draw large crowds inside the MassMutual Center.
For the Thunderbirds, the night was about more than ticket sales, it was about brand building. Every sold-out crowd strengthens Springfield as a noticeable minor league market, drawing fans downtown and driving economic activity for nearby restaurants, bars, and hotels. The organization’s ability to connect with the community and create on-ice success is another example of their consistent growth since returning to the AHL in 2016.
The Thunderbirds continue to show how strong management and smart marketing can make professional hockey a powerful economic driver for Western Massachusetts.
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