NEWSLETTER
At the end of every NHL season, the ice surface is broken up and melted down so the United Center can get a fresh sheet for the new year. Being that it’s the end of August, it’s that time of year again for the new ice to get installed.
But what about the color on the ice?
Well, that needs to be painted onto the ice surface and cured for a long season that includes the preseason and regular season (and postseason when applicable). And, on Tuesday, our guys had the chance to be part of the painting experience.
Patrick and I were among those invited by the Blackhawks to put a brush to the ice surface for the 2022-23 season.
To answer a few important questions:
We were given the opportunity to paint the yellow outlines that wrap around the black and the feathers on the Indian head at center ice. The United Center was empty with the exception of the handful of media members and season ticket holders who were invited to paint. There were a few television cameras there capturing the experience for local news on Tuesday night as well.
The great ice technicians gave us a few pointers on how to paint and then we were on our way. If you’ve ever been self-conscious about being able to draw in a straight line, that was definitely us. Thankfully the professionals are going to finish the job and make it look nice and neat before the Blackhawks hit the ice for training camp in a couple weeks.
This was a really fun experience that neither of us had enjoyed before. When we tune in this season, it’ will be special to know we had a little part in the look of the ice the game is being played on each and every night.
