Article by Sports Editor, Lorenzo Serrato

Photos courtesy of Nicolas Carrillo

Looking for weekend plans? Do you love sports? Look no further than your Grand Rapids Griffins. The Griffins open their 2021-22 season celebrating their 25th anniversary. Technically, the 25th celebration was last season, which was shortened due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Griffins are the primary affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings, playing in The American Hockey League (AHL). The organization has been a major staple here in Grand Rapids, and in West Michigan itself. The Griffins continues to represent it’s city proudly, winning 2 Calder Cup Championships (2012-13, 2016-17).

Located 2 miles from Aquinas, the Griffins play at the well-known Van Andel Arena in downtown Grand Rapids. The arena hosts Griffins home games, concerts, and other events throughout the calendar year.

The Griffins also offer a variety of promotions throughout the season including bobblehead giveaways, and the popular College Night, which features $2 beer and $2 hot dogs every Friday home game. This affordable promotion is not only a fun weekend plan, but a great way to support a local Grand Rapids organization.

“A Griffins game is the easiest way to have a fun night out in Grand Rapids,” said Bre’onna Raymo, the Senior Group Events Account Manager for the Griffins. “Whether you’re the biggest hockey fan or you’re still trying to figure out if the game is split into quarters or periods, you’re bound to have a good time. The tickets are perfect for a college budget, and the biggest pull for anyone over 21 is our $2 beers and $2 hot dogs from 6pm-8pm on Friday nights”.

Raymo is entering her 4th season in the Griffins front office, and is a graduate of Grand Valley State University.

“Take a selfie with the mascot, grab a free t-shirt during t-shirt time, and watch the Griffins fight for their teammates (sometimes literally) as they face any of their AHL opponents,” Raymo said. “Soon enough, a lot of these players will eventually find their way to the Big League and play in Detroit. Weekday or weekend, you have at least 38 opportunities to check out what all the hype’s about”.

You can find available home games during this current season at griffinshockey.com/tickets.