It’s the holidays so it’s the time of year where “sweaters” don’t necessarily mean hockey jerseys. Festive folks are out wearing plenty of the ugly variety to celebrate the season. Being a proud resident of New Jersey, I even have one that has Tony Soprano on it!
Hockey teams, especially those of the minor league variety, sometimes join in on the festivities with special Christmas themed sweaters. Last year the Hershey Bears wore special “ugly sweater” Christmas jerseys. Just like most “special edition” jerseys, they were actioned off to benefit local charities. The Albany Devils, then AHL affiliate of the New Jersey Devils, had their own notable special version in 2015.
This year’s best Christmas edition hockey jersey goes to the Bloomington Bison. The New York Rangers ECHL affiliate wore special “Elf” inspired jerseys for their game last Friday. Just like Will Ferrell’s iconic costume from the holiday favorite, this jersey is designed as a green winter coat with fur color and fur cuffs on the wrist, all printed of course. You can take a look at the jersey here on the Bison Instagram page. Here's a look at Will Ferrell's costume from the holiday classic.
Gold embroidery around the labels complete the look. A black belt, like Ferrell’s’ costume, is bottom center with a buckle that feature the Bison’ “B” logo. If the Bison are going to wear these jerseys they should go all the way. If Will Ferrell could wear yellow tights as Buddy the Elf we better see Bison players in yellow hockey pants, or at least yellow hockey socks.
The game against the Fort Wayne Comets is part of a special “It’s An Elf Christmas” promotional game. The jerseys, like the Christmas jerseys of minor league hockey Christmas before them, will be auctioned off. Minor League Hockey’s favorite holiday tradition of the teddy bear toss took place during the Bison’s game on Saturday against the Toledo Walleye.