Buffalo Sabres fans stepped in to save ‘O Canada,’ raising the bar on what anthems are about
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- During Game 5 of the NHL playoffs at Buffalo's KeyBank Center, national anthem singer Cami Clune experienced a microphone malfunction during "O Canada," prompting the crowd of 19,070 to spontaneously sing the anthem in full support.
- The moment was deeply moving for former NHL star Shane Doan and others, symbolizing unity amid ongoing cross-border tensions between the U.S. and Canada.
- Sabres fans have a long tradition of honoring both Canadian and American anthems, reflecting the team's strong Canadian connections and the city's cultural ties to Canada.
- Unlike recent incidents of anthem booing elsewhere, the Buffalo crowd's supportive response highlighted the community's reputation as "The City of Good Neighbors" and its respect for both nations.
- The spontaneous singing was widely praised by broadcasters and local figures, emphasizing the pride and energy national anthems bring to hockey games and the significance of the shared moment.
