Answer:
People throw octopuses on the ice in hockey for various reasons, including tradition, superstition, and as a way to show support for their team. Here are 5 supporting facts:
1. Origin of the Tradition: The tradition of throwing octopuses on the ice during hockey games originated with the Detroit Red Wings, an NHL team. It began in 1952 when two Detroit brothers threw an octopus onto the ice to symbolize the eight playoff wins needed to win the Stanley Cup.
2. Symbol of Good Luck: Octopuses are considered a symbol of good luck in hockey. The eight tentacles represent the eight wins required to win the Stanley Cup, so fans believe throwing an octopus on the ice will bring luck to their team.
3. Detrimental Effect on Ice: While the tradition has continued, the NHL has imposed restrictions on throwing octopuses due to the potential damage they can cause to the ice. The NHL now prohibits fans from throwing octopuses during the game, but they are still thrown before the game begins.
4. Passionate Fanbase: The act of throwing octopuses on the ice has become a celebrated tradition among hockey fans, particularly in Detroit. It showcases the passionate support fans have for their team and adds to the overall atmosphere of the game.
5. Publicity and Symbolism: Throwing octopuses on the ice has gained significant attention and become a symbol of hockey culture. It has been featured in media coverage and is often associated with the intensity and excitement of playoff games.
FAQs:
1. Why specifically octopuses?
– Octopuses were chosen because of their eight tentacles, symbolizing the eight playoff wins required to win the Stanley Cup.
2. Are octopuses harmed during this tradition?
– While precautions are taken to ensure the octopuses are no longer alive during the throws, it is still considered an act of animal cruelty by many organizations.
3. Do other NHL teams have similar traditions?
– No, the octopus tradition is unique to the Detroit Red Wings. Other teams may have different fan traditions, but throwing octopuses is exclusive to Detroit.
4. Have there been any incidents related to throwing octopuses?
– There have been instances where fans have been ejected from games or faced legal consequences for throwing octopuses on the ice. This has led to stricter regulations by the NHL.
5. What happens to the octopuses after they are thrown?
– After being thrown, octopuses are typically removed from the ice by arena staff. The fate of the octopuses varies, but they are often disposed of responsibly.
6. How does the NHL regulate the throwing of octopuses?
– The NHL prohibits fans from throwing octopuses during games, and anyone caught doing so may face consequences such as ejection from the arena. The tradition is now limited to pre-game throws only.
7. Are there any alternatives to throwing octopuses?
– Some fans have opted for throwing rubber or plush octopuses instead. These alternatives are less harmful to the ice and avoid the cruelty associated with throwing live animals.
BOTTOM LINE: Throwing octopuses on the ice in hockey is a unique tradition that originated with the Detroit Red Wings. It symbolizes the number of playoff wins needed to win the Stanley Cup and has become a celebrated tradition among passionate hockey fans. However, the act has faced restrictions due to potential harm to the ice and ethical concerns towards animals, leading to stricter regulations by the NHL.
