HOCKEY fans were treated to an alternative introduction prior to Coventry Blaze’s latest Elite League fixture as fans, players and members of management remembered the fallen.
As part of Remembrance Sunday, both Coventry Blaze and Braehead Clan took time out as match announcer John Dalziel cued the lights to be switched off.
Lit up in gorgeous red, the rink’s attention was focused on the stairwell located beneath the VIP seating area – where Chris Crouch started his journey to the ice surface.
Playing a faultless version of Amazing Grace, Chris’ emotional appearance was followed by a poem from BBC broadcaster Justine Greene and a performance of the national anthem – sung by Mia Evans.
Jordan Fellows, Infantry Soldier from The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, also joined in the service by performing the traditional puck drop.
Blaze media manager Rob Plaister said: “As an organisation we knew it would take some hard work and time to bring it together and leave a lasting memory the fans could take away with them.
“We feel we have achieved that.
“The feedback has been overwhelming and it’s all been worth it.”