A Weekend in Roanoke: Behind the Scenes with the Rail Yard Dawgs
Introduction: In the heart of Roanoke, Virginia, a city known for its rich history and vibrant community, lies the Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs, a hockey team that has captured the hearts of many locals. My recent trip to Roanoke was not just a journey to explore the city but a chance to reconnect with a long-time friend, Josh Pentico, who happens to be the Equipment Manager for the Rail Yard Dawgs. Little did I know, this adventure would offer me a unique behind-the-scenes experience of the world of professional ice hockey.
The Reunion: Departing from Des Moines on January 4th, 2023, I arrived in Roanoke where Josh, my friend since 5th grade, eagerly picked me up from the airport. Our history is deeply rooted in hockey, having played together from 5th grade all the way through high school, sharing countless memories both on and off the ice. However, as life unfolded, our time together became limited due to work and family commitments. This hockey season presented the perfect opportunity to rekindle our friendship and explore the exciting world of the Rail Yard Dawgs.
Josh's Journey: Over the past few years, Josh has carved a niche for himself in the hockey world, specializing in the role of Equipment Manager. His responsibilities go beyond just ensuring the players are well-equipped; he handles skate sharpening, repairs, logistics, and much more. The current season marks his second with the Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs, and, impressively, they clinched the championship in his first season. It's a testament to Josh's dedication and the positive impact he brings to the team.
Getting in the Game: Before my visit, I approached Josh with the idea of taking photos for the team during my stay. With a quick conversation with Mitch Stewart, the team's media guy and voice of the Rail Yard Dawgs, I found myself armed with a media pass, granting me full access to the arena, including behind-the-scenes areas and even the announcer's booth.
Game Night Excitement: The first night was an electrifying home game against the Birmingham Bulls, ending in a thrilling 4-5 victory for Roanoke in overtime. The following Saturday, another home game against the Knoxville Ice Bears resulted in a 2-4 win for Roanoke. The intensity continued on Sunday with an away game against the Ice Bears in Knoxville, where I had the unique opportunity to travel with the team on the bus. The Rail Yard Dawgs secured a resounding 5-1 victory, despite a game filled with ejections and penalty minutes.
A Glimpse Behind the Scenes: The weekend provided me with an intimate look at the inner workings of an ice hockey team. From the meticulous preparations to the strategic on-ice maneuvers, I witnessed the dedication and teamwork that fuel a successful team. Capturing moments from unique perspectives, especially from the announcer's booth, added an extra layer of excitement to my experience.
Conclusion: My sincere gratitude goes to Josh Pentico for being an exceptional host, reconnecting me with the sport we love, and introducing me to the incredible world of the Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs. As I reflect on this unforgettable weekend, I eagerly anticipate future visits to witness the triumphs and challenges of this dynamic team. Josh's enduring friendship and the thrill of capturing unforgettable moments through my lens have made this journey to Roanoke an adventure of a lifetime.
