Amerks, Checkers Set For Saturday's Queen City Outdoor Classic

CHARLOTTE, NC - The Charlotte Checkers are set to make history Saturday night when the host the Rochester Americans in the Queen City Outdoor Classic (QCOC) at Truist Field. It will mark the first ever outdoor professional hockey game played in Charlotte.

After catching up with both coaches and a few players from both teams, here are some of their thoughts on outdoor hockey and Saturday night's Queen City Outdoor Classic.

Charlotte Checkers

Head Coach Geordie Kinnear

On looking forward to the  QCOC after a long road trip (from December 30)

"Yeah, I mean, we had a outdoor practice here already, so we saw the facilities. Obviously, the city is a great sports town - and [for those] who have supported us all along - we want to make that city proud."

"Once we get there I think it will really set in."

Checkers forward Zac Dalpe

On Charlotte hosting this year's AHL outdoor game.

"Yeah, the practice was fun. The ice held up. I mean, I don't know how it's gonna be in Charlotte in January, but we'll find out. I have heard it sold out. I got a bunch of people coming in and family members, the kids are excited. So we're just really excited that it's in Charlotte."

Checkers forward Ryan McAllister

On soaking it all in during the team's morning skate Saturday with the shades on.

"Yeah, you know, it was super cool coming out for morning skate this morning. The sun is shining. And, you know, you got the skyline in the background, so it's a good experience."

Rochester Americans

Head coach Seth Appert

On Saturday's game and playing hockey outdoors in Charlotte.

"I'm really appreciative, number one, that Charlotte invited us. It's a great opportunity. We practiced outdoors [Thursday]. Our guys loved it . They had a blast. It just brings you back to you roots, back to your childhood. The reason we all fell in love with the game is because it's fun. And you played with your buddies and you played outside. So to have the opportunity and in Charlotte, everything has been first class. The baseball facility is awesome. Just the way it's been treated - the setting with the downtown in the background. It's pretty special. So very appreciative for the opportunity to be part of it and excited."

Forward Tyson Jost

*A veteran of two NHL outdoor games, the approach and giving pointers to teammates.

"Yeah, you got to enjoy the moment for sure. I mean,, it doesn't happen that often. So I was fortunate to play in two - some pretty cool venues as well. It's not the same hockey, I'll tell you that. It's kind of pond hockey in a sense, just because everything's a little bit different. The ice isn't great, the stanchions are a little bit weird, but it's just an amazing experience so you got to soak that in. It doesn't come around too often. And something you remember  for a long, long time and tell your kids about it and your family and whatnot. So definitely, it's a cool venue for sure."