The Crease: A Night of Mayhem and Hockey Violence in Rochester

On March 24, 1977, a hockey game between the Rochester Americans and the Springfield Indians erupted into a full-scale riot. The incident, known as The Crease, resulted in dozens of injuries and several arrests. This article explores the events leading up to the riot, the violence that ensued, and the aftermath of the night that shook Rochester.

The Crease (Rochester Riot Book 2)

by Colleen Charles

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5167 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	227 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The Lead-Up to the Riot

The Rochester Americans were a minor league hockey team that played in the American Hockey League (AHL). The team had a long history of rivalry with the Springfield Indians, a team based in Massachusetts. The two teams had met in the playoffs several times, and the games were often heated.

In the 1976-77 season, the Americans and Indians were both vying for a playoff spot. The two teams met in Rochester on March 24, 1977, in a game that was crucial for both teams. The game was close, and the tension was high.

The Violence Erupts

The violence erupted in the third period of the game. With just over two minutes remaining, Springfield's Bruce Boudreau scored a goal to give the Indians a 4-3 lead. The goal was controversial, as it appeared that Boudreau had used his stick to push the puck into the net. The Americans players were incensed, and a melee ensued.

The melee quickly spilled out of the crease and into the stands. Fans from both teams began fighting, and chairs and other objects were thrown. The violence continued for several minutes before the police arrived and broke up the riot.

The Aftermath

The Crease was one of the worst hockey riots in history. Dozens of people were injured, and several were arrested. The game was forfeited to the Indians, and the Americans were suspended from the playoffs.

The riot had a lasting impact on the Rochester Americans. The team was forced to move to a new arena, and attendance declined sharply. The Americans eventually folded in 1987.

The Crease is a reminder of the dark side of hockey. It is a night that will never be forgotten in Rochester.

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The Crease (Rochester Riot Book 2)

by Colleen Charles

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5167 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	227 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE