That said, I would imagine creating an outdoor rink of the caliber necesary for high level play comes at considerable expense. If this were to become an annual event it would need to be profitable (or at least budget neutral) for the teams and organizers to be willing to do so each year.

So – how to help insure continuation of this great event without NHL “Winter Classic” TV revenue that presumably would not be available each year (historically the location for this has been rotated, and presumably other northern cities would also like the benefit and enjoyment of hosting this game)?

Organizers could expand the initiative to turn it into two weeks of Boston area hockey, with a game each night. Teams could include the Bruins, Providence Bruins, local men’s and women’s college teams and even select rotating high schools.

I also wonder if the novelty of Fenway as a location might wear off, as fans tire of challenging site lines (although Fenwasy was the perfect spot for this year – and maybe even the first few years). And I do agree that keeping the game in the city – or very close to it – is important. If alternative venues were to be considered, perhaps Harvard Stadium or BC’s Alumni Stadium might be interesting options (BC would be a challenge due to the bubble that is erected over the field each winter).

In any event – this was a great great event for Boston – and I hope we find a way to make this annual.