The buzz around the St. Louis sports scene on Tuesday were talks of the Blues’ newly acquired “prospect’s” high-profile debut at Scottrade Center.
Was it a European sniper with a deadly slap shot? Or the new enforcer hired to protect our core goal-scorers and prolific points-producers?
Unfortunately, the notions mentioned in the previous paragraph are incorrect. Like a Vladimir Tarasenko or a Jake Allen, however, it will command an intimidating presence while playing a vital role in the organization once the puck drops on center ice.
On September 19, the team unveiled its new state-of-the-art scoreboard in front of the city’s local media outlets, their devoted season ticket holders, and loyal corporate sponsors. It was also the first time the players were able to skate under the massive signboard and unofficially christen the arrival of their new digital “roommate.” The technological commodity was a major piece to the phase 1 completion renovating the 23-year-old arena according to KMOX Radio. The Blues will spend the remaining $65 million in funding from the city of St. Louis; and, $90 million within their budget to further update the barn on Clark Avenue for the next three summers, KMOX Radio reports.
The organization showcased other modern amenities as part of the phase 1 process to go along with the exhibition of the NHL’s eighth-largest scoreboard (compared to the previously-owned second-smallest scoreboard in the league). The new lighting systems and upgraded seating options/suites were among the highly-advertised luxuries complementing the facility’s fan-friendly atmosphere. For a local legend, a familiar and now refurbished area was in dire need of a makeover during his playing career.
“The previous locker room was pretty bad,” said 590 The Fan (KFNS) radio personality and former Blue Cam Janssen, “They definitely needed this (new locker room) and they sure got it.”
Janssen also praised its new look and what it could mean to the current and future talent when it comes to preparing for game day.
“It’s probably one of the nicest locker rooms in the NHL,” exclaimed Janssen, “…These kids will go in there and they will want to stay in there, stretch, workout, and they will all want to hang out in there.”
Cam Janssen on Twitter
I checked out the new Scottrade renovations with @HannaRaeYates …the @StLouisBlues did and incredible job. Full video on @insideSTL https://t.co/cBiz5QLhAw
The accommodations will not only cater to the needs and wants of Blues’ fans, but to the contingent of die-hard fans for amateur sports. The notable events within the realm of NCAA athletics that will call Scottrade Center home include the 2018 SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament, the 2020 NCAA’s Men’s Basketball Championship First and Second Round games, and the 2021 NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships.
In the meantime, the Blues will host three preseason contests at Scottrade before their regular season home opener against the Dallas Stars begins on October 7.
