2018 AHL Outdoor Classic: Varone views his 2nd AHL Outdoor Classic as a big two points on line
The Hershey Bears might have the edge in terms of experience playing outdoor games, as the franchise gets set to be a part of their third American Hockey League (AHL) outdoor game, but the last time the Bears hosted an outdoor game at HersheyPark Stadium during the 2012-13 season Phil Varone was with the Rochester Americans hosting the then-Lake Erie Monsters in the Frozen Frontier at Frontier Field in Rochester, New York.
"Looking back now, it was great. It was actually a really good game," Varone recalled of the game, remembering his team overcoming a 3-1 deficit before Lake Erie scored in the final seconds to tie the game. "We ended up winning in the shootout," he added.
Varone scored late in the 2nd period in that game to tie the game up at 3-3 heading into the third period, so he the past experience of playing an AHL outdoor under his belt going into Saturday night's game at Hershey Park Stadium.
While Varone's reflections speak highly of the event, it wasn't as much fun in the moment as temperatures dipped low as they normally do on a December night in western New York.
"At the time it wasn't great, it was really, really cold," Varone explained. "I remember blocking a shot on the [penalty kill]. It was just along the ice - hit my blade not even in the foot, and your foot feels like it's going to fall off. So that part of it is tough."
Still, Varone has fond memories of his first AHL outdoor experience and understands how to enjoy the moment to play in one of the league's major events each season.
"You'll look back on that and it will be something you always remember. The fans were into it. It was a cool experience. It's a big deal for the city. I'm looking forward to this one. It sounds like it's going to be a bit warmer, so that's nice."
As far as preparations go, Varone said it's pretty straightforward and similar to every other game played. The approach to the game is the same.
"I think you prepare the same way," Varone said. "I know there will be heat packs, and that sort of thing. I know guys will probably wear a little extra underneath. I don't think there is any way to prepare, you just have to get used to the ice - that will be a little different. And all that kind of stuff."
"I don't know know if there is any other way to prepare, but there's a big two points on the line."
