Marketing and Promotions
The more games I attend, the more convinced I become that Chicago Blackhawk mascot, Tommy Hawk, is the biggest embarrassment in all of sports. And trust me, I understand precisley what it was the Blackhawks were trying to do: imitate Skates (the Chicago Wolves mascot) and try to provide entertainment for kids attending any given Blackhawk game.
It doesn't work.
Not only can't Tommy entertain, he's a bird. At last check, the Blackhawks were named after a prominant Black Hawk warrior whose symbol from inception has been THE most proud and well respected logo in all of sports, the Blackhawk Indian head.
I truly hope that the marketing intern that came up with this idea back in 2004 has since been fired by the organization and is enjoying life in a different career field.
Then again, team president John McDonough (a.k.a. McPulford, McEgo, McPully, McCub) has basically admited that what happens in the stands is more important than what's happening on the ice. Translated: Tommy and his $3.00 Walmart drum probably not going anywhere.
Recent Blackhawk Marketing Slogans (you know, to entice you to go to the games...)
» 2008-: One Goal
» 2007: Red Rising
» 2006: All4One
» 2005: Let's Go!
» 2003: Live from Chicago
» 2002: Show your colors
» 2001: Roar
» 1999: Are you one of us?
» 1995: Cold Steel on Ice
» 1994: The Next Ice Age
» 1993: Remember the Roar
Top 10 Things to Remember While Attending a Chicago Blackhawks Game
10. Always, always, ALWAYS wait for the whistle.
9. Don't "chirp" unless you know what the hell it means.
8. Boo the bird at all times.
7. When the national anthem starts, it's ok to clap.
6. Thundersticks and the wave have no place in any arena. Ever.
5. Seriously, wait for the whistle.
4. The chant is not - nor ever was - "Let's Go Blackhawks!" (followed by 5 claps)
3. Save the "W" flag for Cub games.
2. The ushers are totally, 100%, useless.
And the number one thing to remember while attending a Chicago Blackhawks game...
1. For the love of God - sit down already!