Central Division: 3 wins and 1 loss
Atlantic Division: 2 wins and 2 losses
North Division: 1 win and 2 losses
Pacific Division: 1 win and 2 losses
Several players had outstanding nights on the ice. Rob Schremp, a local favorite from Fulton playing for the Portland Pirates, had two goals and two assists on the night. He was one of the only non-Syracuse Crunch players getting loud cheers from the crowd. Pat Cannone, from the Chicago Wolves, was awarded the MVP award, notching three goals on the night. For the Crunch, Matt Taormina had three assists on the night, Mike Angelidis had one assists, and Kristers Gudlevskis made nine saves in three games.
Overall, the All Star Game and Skills Competition were a major success in Syracuse. It had great attendance both nights and provided lots of fun for both players and fans. It was a refreshing change from the regular games of hockey fans see all the time. Instead of lots of intensity and pressure to win, it was fun to see players from across the league get together and have fun without the intense need to win. The mascots took the cake both nights, whooping it up with all the fans. I also have to say Joe Nasty, who is best known from KROCK, brings a new energy to in game entertainment to the Syracuse Crunch, something they have been lacking for years now.
Though there were a lot of positives, there were some minor negatives. First and foremost, I agree with Brent Axe in saying the Crunch need a new goal song. It is weak and not what a goal song should be. They should go back to Zombienation or bring in a new rock song. Secondly, Crunchman needs a makeover. The other mascots blew him out of the water and it was made known by fans all over the arena. The Crunch need to either re-brand him or get a new mascot that works as well as Moose, Audie, Frenzy, Kingston, T-Bone, and Tux.
The All Star Game was a fun time that helped prove Syracuse has a ton to offer as a hockey city. I am excited for the second half of the season and the Crunch's push for the playoffs. They return to action this Friday when they host the Utica Comets at 7pm.