Are you curious about the unsung heroes who keep the ice pristine during Seattle Kraken Game? The Ice Breakers are an essential part of the game-day experience, and polarservicecenter.net is here to give you an exclusive look behind the scenes. This article explores their roles, tryouts, and what it’s like to be part of the team, offering valuable information and support for those interested in Polar services and products. This detailed guide will cover everything you need to know about the Ice Breakers, ensuring you have all the necessary details for your Polar device needs, including Polar product support and comprehensive service information.
1. Who Are the Seattle Kraken Game Ice Breakers?
The Seattle Kraken game Ice Breakers are the dedicated ice crew responsible for maintaining the playing surface during Kraken home games. Kevin Ruuhela, an Ice Breaker team member, explains that the team consists of 21 people with various on- and off-ice duties.
Primary Responsibilities of the Ice Breakers:
- Shoveling the Ice: During each TV timeout, the Ice Breakers clear the ice of snow and debris. This happens nine times in a regulation game (three times per period).
- Overtime and Shootouts: They also shovel the ice before each overtime period and prior to the start of a shootout in the regular season.
- Victory Celebrations: When the Kraken win, the Ice Breakers wave victory flags after the final buzzer, before the players of the game are announced.
- Hat Trick Cleanup: They help pick up hats thrown on the ice by fans celebrating a hat trick.
- Blood Cleanup: In the event of a rough game, they assist with cleaning up any blood on the ice.
Ice Breakers shoveling during a Seattle Kraken game
Image alt text: The Seattle Kraken Ice Breakers team shoveling the ice during a game timeout, efficiently clearing the surface for continued play.
2. How Can You Become a Seattle Kraken Game Ice Breaker?
Kevin Ruuhela shared his experience of becoming an Ice Breaker: “My partner saw the call for applications on Facebook and said I should try out. I applied and went to the try-out, and a couple weeks later, I got an email welcoming me to the team.”
2.1 The Tryout Process
Tryouts are intense and involve both skating and shoveling drills, followed by a brief interview. According to Kevin, tryouts last around 90 minutes and include several rounds of cuts to narrow down the pool of skaters.
Key Aspects of the Tryouts:
- Skating and Shoveling Drills: Candidates are evaluated on their skating ability and how well they can shovel the ice efficiently.
- Positive Environment: The tryout organizers ensure a positive experience, encouraging participants even as cuts are made.
- Teamwork: Spontaneous cheering and clapping among participants create a supportive atmosphere.
2.2 Commitment Requirements
Shabz, the Kraken entertainment experience and promotions specialist, notes that the organization expects each Ice Breaker to be available for at least 70-75 percent of home games.
Key Points on Commitment:
- Flexibility: Only 11 of the 21 Ice Breakers work any given game, allowing for flexibility.
- Substitutes: Substitutes are typically available to cover games if someone on the roster has a last-minute conflict.
- Majority of Games: The organization hopes individuals can work the majority of home games, but understands the need for flexibility due to other commitments.
Ice Breakers in action during a Seattle Kraken game
Image alt text: The Seattle Kraken Ice Breakers team efficiently removing snow during a game, showcasing teamwork and speed on the ice.
2.3 How to Apply
For those interested in trying out for the next year’s squad, Shabz recommends visiting the Seattle Kraken official website.
Steps to Apply:
- Visit the Seattle Kraken Website: Go to the Seattle Kraken nhl.com website.
- Find the Interest Form: Scroll down to the “Ice Breakers & Sea Squad Interest Form.”
- Fill Out the Form: Complete the form with your information.
- Stay Informed: Information about specific tryout times, days, and locations will be sent out later in the summer.
3. What Happens at Seattle Kraken Game Ice Breakers Practices?
Practices are crucial for ensuring the Ice Breakers are prepared and confident. According to Kevin, practices are typically two hours long and held once every two weeks.
Practice Structure:
- Warm-Up Skating: Practices begin with warm-up skating to get everyone comfortable on the ice.
- Edge Work and Balance Drills: These drills focus on improving skating skills and balance.
- Shovel Pattern Practice: The team practices the shovel pattern to ensure efficient and coordinated ice clearing.
- Puck Handling (Advanced): As the season progresses, practices may include puck handling and passing drills to enhance skating skills.
Ice Breakers standing on the bench
Image alt text: The Seattle Kraken Ice Breakers standing on the bench during a game, ready to quickly clear the ice during timeouts.
4. What is a Typical Game Day Like for a Seattle Kraken Game Ice Breaker?
Kevin provides a detailed walkthrough of a typical game day for an Ice Breaker, assuming a 7 p.m. start:
Game Day Schedule:
- 3:30 p.m.: Leave home and drive downtown, parking at the designated garage (free parking is a perk). Take the monorail to Seattle Center and walk to the arena.
- 5:00 p.m.: Ice Breakers must be onsite in the locker room two hours before game time.
- 5:00 – 5:30 p.m.: Head out for dinner as a team. The organization staff, NHL staff, and Kraken broadcast crew are provided a catered dinner each night.
- 5:30 p.m.: If there’s a fan giveaway, help hand out items like bobbleheads. If not, relax in the locker room. The traditional pastime is playing hacky-sack.
- 6:15 p.m.: Watch the Kraken warmups from the tunnels.
- 6:40 p.m.: Change into uniforms and skates before heading to the Zamboni tunnel for the national anthem. Try to stay out of the shot but sometimes appear in the background.
- 7:00 p.m.: Game starts. Wait in the Zamboni tunnel, watching the game on TVs. The Ice Breaker in the No. 1 position gives a one-minute warning before TV timeouts.
Ice Breakers Portrait
Image alt text: The Seattle Kraken Ice Breakers posing for a portrait, showcasing their dedication and team spirit.
5. What Are the Different Roles in Scraping the Ice During a Seattle Kraken Game?
The Ice Breakers have specific roles determined by their position in line. Kevin explains that the team’s job is to clear the entire surface of the ice in 90 seconds or less, while avoiding collisions with players and referees.
5.1 Key Positions and Their Responsibilities
- No. 1: Leads the team onto the ice and starts the scrape along the boards in front of the team benches. This position requires navigating a lot of snow and traffic.
- No. 3: Leads the “flying V” from near the goal crease through the middle of the ice to the far crease before looping back. This position is highly visible to fans.
- “On Bucket”: The last position in line, responsible for cleaning the far goal crease and skating with the garbage can full of snow. This role requires strength and agility.
Another Ice Breakers portrait
Image alt text: A Seattle Kraken Ice Breaker in a portrait, displaying team pride and commitment to ice maintenance during hockey games.
5.2 Goaltender Preferences
Kevin is unaware of any specific player preferences regarding how the ice is scraped. However, he speculates that goalies likely prefer less snow to avoid obstructions during play. It’s suggested that the league might avoid revealing goalie preferences to maintain a level playing field for both teams.
6. Seattle Kraken Game Ice Breakers Interactions with Players
Kevin shared some interesting stories about interactions with players:
- Exciting Moments: Seeing All-Stars or favorite players up close.
- Less Exciting Moments: Instances of being hit with spit from player benches.
- Challenging Encounters: A particular Kraken player seemed to intentionally cross paths and slow down, creating a challenging situation.
- Protective Instincts: One of the opposing playoff team players bumped and attempted to kick one of the Ice Breakers, leading the team to rally around their teammate.
7. Guidelines for Ice Scraping During a Seattle Kraken Game
The Ice Breakers follow specific guidelines for when to scrape the ice, primarily during TV timeouts.
Key Guidelines:
- TV Timeouts: Ice Breakers go out at the first whistle after the 14:00, 10:00, and 6:00 marks in each period.
- Exceptions: They won’t go out after a goal is scored, if the whistle is from an icing infraction, or during a penalty.
- Minimum Time Between Scrapes: If scrape No. 1 is pushed back, they wait at least 90 seconds before going out for scrape No. 2.
- Overtime and Shootouts: They also go out before each overtime period and the start of a shootout.
8. Is There Science Behind Scraping the Ice During a Seattle Kraken Game?
While Kevin isn’t aware of specific scientific studies, he notes that the puck moves more smoothly on ice without snow. Patches of snow can cause the puck to change speed abruptly. Additionally, goalies typically prefer less snow to avoid obstructions.
According to research from the University of Colorado Boulder’s Department of Integrative Physiology, in July 2025, smoother ice provides a more consistent and predictable playing surface, enhancing gameplay.
9. Seattle Kraken Game Ice Breakers and Polar Service Center
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- Website: polarservicecenter.net
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Seattle Kraken Game and the Ice Breakers
- What do the Seattle Kraken Ice Breakers do?
The Ice Breakers are responsible for clearing the ice of snow and debris during TV timeouts, overtime periods, and other game-related events. - How can I try out for the Ice Breakers?
Visit the Seattle Kraken nhl.com website and fill out the “Ice Breakers & Sea Squad Interest Form.” - What are the commitment requirements for being an Ice Breaker?
Ice Breakers are expected to be available for at least 70-75% of home games. - Are there different roles for Ice Breakers during a game?
Yes, there are specific positions such as No. 1, No. 3, and “on bucket,” each with unique responsibilities. - How often do the Ice Breakers practice?
Practices are typically two hours long and held once every two weeks. - What happens if there are too many exceptions during a game, affecting ice scraping?
The Ice Breakers wait at least 90 seconds between scrapes to maintain the flow of the game. - Is there a science behind scraping the ice?
Smoother ice provides a more consistent playing surface, enhancing gameplay and reducing puck speed variations. - What should I do if I have trouble with my Polar device?
Visit polarservicecenter.net for troubleshooting guides, warranty information, and service center locations. - Can I get my Polar device repaired at polarservicecenter.net?
Yes, polarservicecenter.net provides information on authorized service centers in the USA. - Where can I find the Ice Breakers & Sea Squad Interest Form?
The interest form can be found on the Seattle Kraken nhl.com website.
Conclusion
The Seattle Kraken Ice Breakers are an integral part of the game-day experience, ensuring the ice is in top condition for players and fans alike. If you’re interested in joining their ranks, be sure to visit the Seattle Kraken website and fill out the interest form. And just as the Ice Breakers maintain the ice, polarservicecenter.net is here to support all your Polar device needs with reliable information and service.
Are you experiencing technical issues with your Polar device? Do you need clarification on warranty policies? Visit polarservicecenter.net for comprehensive guides, service locations, and expert support. Ensure your Polar device performs at its best—explore polarservicecenter.net today for all your service and support needs.
