Saying goodbye to “The Joe”

The birthplace of Hockeytown is coming to an end after 38 years. “The Joe” is a place where legacies and legends have been born. Home of the Russian Five, the Bruise Brothers, and the Grindline. History has been made at Joe Louis Arena as the Wings have had 25 consecutive playoff appearances, and won 4 Stanley Cups.

It’s the last season, and many people are eager to see how the Wings perform. The pressure on the players couldn’t be any higher; fans are expecting nothing less than perfection during the last season at The Joe Louis Arena.

“It’s one of the most meaningful seasons; it would be awesome to have an amazing last one at “The Joe,” senior Jake Herrington stated. He hopes the Red Wings are saving the best for last and many fans are anticipating this year to be better than past years.

“The Wings are going to pull out number 26 this year, I can feel it,” said Senior Derek Horne, referring to the playoff streak. 

As we close out the final season at the Joe, a future is ahead of the Wings at the new Little Caesars Arena.

“The future of the Wings looks good. We have a lot of young talent that will only get better with experience,” Michael Osinski stated. “The premiere of a new stadium will bring some excitement and motivation to the way they play.” The Wings’ future looks bright as they start a new chapter at a new arena.

To players, it’s a place that hard work and dedication has led to once in a lifetime experiences. To the city of Detroit, it’s reminder that our city is strong and growing. To fans, it’s a place where memories were made and dreams became a reality.

“One  of my favorite memories was the first time I ever skated. I was 3 years old and my dad took me to an open skate at The Joe,” Osinski said.

Memories after memories were made at the Joe, and we continue to make more each game.

“I remember being at game 6 when the Red Wings won in 2008. It’s one of the dopest memories that I have,” Horne states.

Fans and players have cherished memories of almost four decades here at the Joe, and we’re excited to celebrate and relive those moments one last time as we continue preparation for the future at Little Caesars Arena.