I wish broadcasts would take time to show us things like this. NHL Rinks are so incredible, and they each have unique features. Would love to see them spotlighted.
@@FleukYT It's possible that visiting media aren't allowed to record video during the times that they would be up there. Perhaps to protect the privacy and conversations that are happening. It's weird, but not impossible. But also yeah it's not like it's some huge secret.
This is what I missed about being a janitor. Security and janitorial always go in every part of a building. As long as you can pass the security screening process. In every building there's cool things to check out and see.
Custodians are so important to me in my job as firefighter. They know what's where in every building, where valves are, electrical panels. There work is invaluable. Personally I'd do that job, put on headphones and just zone out.
I overcame a fear of heights walking that catwalk when I covered the Calgary Hitmen when I was in college. I last used that catwalk in 2011 for a Roughnecks lacrosse game.
Similar to me! I worked overnight conversion at the Amalie Arena and I was one of the few who didn't say "Hell no!" when asked if I wanted to help clean up confetti up on the catwalks during summer cleaning (it was far better than using the wire brushes and sprayers to clean the retracting seat decks..). Mind you, I did have a minor aversion to heights, but once I was up there, though, it was no biggie, because the railings are adequately high. Only minorly scary thing is when you're walking on the metal floor and you step on a part that is slightly bowed upwards, and it makes a nice sound as it drops like a quarter of an inch and gives you a heart attack.. :D
I used to work in P.R. for the Ducks and being up in the press box is truly unique. When Calgary scores and the flames are ignited, it feels like you are in an oven up there.
@@deggis4 Indeed. I was going to talk about it in my original comment and I forgot. They could still make it happen since they face every team. Only thing is, from the Blues Administrative standpoint, it's not so appealing to showcase other teams arenas.
@@gregbyrne6909 That’s exactly how it works here in Minnesota. Take the elevator (assuming you have credentials), get off, enjoy the view. East access to the catwalks at the Xcel is right by the control room at the far end.
@@JackMuren Having toured the Blackhawks and Canadiens press boxes... I think I would rather watch ants instead. LOL. You just see dots. Not even jersey numbers.
That's the Ed Whalen broadcast booth. It's named after the late great Ed Whalen. A Calgary legend and play by play expert. He also did the show, "Stampede Wrestling " owned by Stu Hart the father of Bret the hitman Hart and Own Hart.......... Great Memories.
I attended a few games when I was stationed at Malmstrom AFB. Calgary was only a couple of hours away so I did weekend trips etc. Great barn. Fans are awesome as well.
0:38 Amazing the amount of networking switches and servers in racks above the scoreboard that everyone has to pass by. Almost all stadiums would have dedicated server room/closets that are locked and secured.
I worked at one of the NHL arenas for quite a few years. The one I worked at the cat walk is quite a bit higher by the looks of it do to the design of the building compared to the saddledome. Took me quite sometime to be "comfortable" being up 200+ft. It's a hell of a lot scarier in person. Especially when you pulling or lowering cable over the ends. It was worth it though as I got to control the concert curtain motor box most of the time up there as not to many people learned how to. I'd spend half my shift up there why'll everyone else down below would be doing labour. So 💩 my pants half the time was worth it if it meant for as easy shift. 😅
@@HavingFun-nj5oc crazy how some stranger over the internet is going to tell me what I did or didn't do. I'm pretty sure I know how high up the cat walk is at the NHL arena I use to work at was.
Very cool. Surprising that this is posted by St. Louis Blues account and not the flames. I was always curious being from Calgary and seeing it up there all the time.
You can access it from the other side as well. At 1:36 you can she the much shorter access at the end of the walkway going to the left. Attending home games, that's where I'd wait to meet the media as they enter/exit therr as opposed to going to long way the video showed (which is for access to the scoreboard brains, etc).
It is more about convenience. IIRC the media rooms are all at ice level behind the team benches, for them to get to the press box, they take an elevator up from the side closest to the media areas and walk across the catwalk. They COULD climb all the stairs to the 300 level and use the access gantry from the concourse but that is tough when the house is packed.
years ago i got to spend some time with legendary WHL announcer Mike Boyle and he told me this was the craziest booth he'd ever been in.... now i know what he was talkin about😨
When I was still in school my teacher took us kids to Calgary. First stop was Calaway Park. Later the Saddledome. Saw center ice with the rest of the students. Great time
Did you see how nice those cables were ran along the catwalks..definately union installed..the non union just throws crap up in a knot and searches for issues later.
Unfortunately in Canada I only have access to the SN feed so I don't even get to hear my favorite broadcasters call the game, but at least I'll know John Kelly will have a great view!
The only NHL game I've ever been to so far, I sat in those seats that were behind the broadcast booth. Players looked like ants. Nabokov made some nice saves as an ant, though, I remember.
What’s funny is they didn’t have to go across all that to get there. Could have easily accessed the broadcast booth from the side it is on. You can literally see the ramp closer to the end of the video. Although it is a lot more fun the route they took 😂
I think San Jose is the same way right? I mean, when they built SAP Center/HP Pavilion, they didn’t build it with pressboxes so they had to design it high above the building itself.
Some of the best seats in the house and the folks up there get paid to be there. Amazing! Lucky them! (Also, was I the only one who thought of the Bob's Burgers "Broadcast Wagstaff School News" episode?)
Fire hazard 101 right here and those thicker white rope/hose looking things, are they pre connected fire hose lines or are the for the scoreboard or something?
I worked in an arena where the catwalk floor was mesh . My balls ached the entire time I had to walk up there and when I got done they hurt for about a half hour after.
I wish broadcasts would take time to show us things like this. NHL Rinks are so incredible, and they each have unique features. Would love to see them spotlighted.
Love your Star Wars content dude
I agree, this looks dope. Much love for your content too brother.
There’s a channel called rinks around the league that does a great job of it
All sports stadiums have unique features. Not just NHL.
@@juliebraden6911 not true at all
NHL stadiums are the only ones
Thank you!
Everybody talks about it and they say they aren't allowed to record it... so I'm glad you showed us.
trust me ive seen plenty of videos on it
@@FleukYT It's possible that visiting media aren't allowed to record video during the times that they would be up there. Perhaps to protect the privacy and conversations that are happening.
It's weird, but not impossible. But also yeah it's not like it's some huge secret.
@@gregbyrne6909 well idk those rules might not be that enforced since I’ve always seen people sneak a little video of the catwals
This is what I missed about being a janitor. Security and janitorial always go in every part of a building. As long as you can pass the security screening process.
In every building there's cool things to check out and see.
This is why I’m always friendly and courteous to maintenance staffers.
Custodians are so important to me in my job as firefighter. They know what's where in every building, where valves are, electrical panels. There work is invaluable. Personally I'd do that job, put on headphones and just zone out.
That’s my favourite part about being in IT, getting to explore/understand so many unique buildings!
The Saddledome may have one of the most unique press boxes in the NHL.
Very similar to the Bell Center. Saw a game there and sitting up high was surprised to look straight ahead into the booth. Very cool though
Little Caesars Arena would like to have a word.
@@bapostol6097 IIRC, the Forum had a similar hanging setup. I'm sure it saves many seats for fans.
Also the oldest 😅
@@justin2956 what's that one like?
I overcame a fear of heights walking that catwalk when I covered the Calgary Hitmen when I was in college. I last used that catwalk in 2011 for a Roughnecks lacrosse game.
Similar to me! I worked overnight conversion at the Amalie Arena and I was one of the few who didn't say "Hell no!" when asked if I wanted to help clean up confetti up on the catwalks during summer cleaning (it was far better than using the wire brushes and sprayers to clean the retracting seat decks..). Mind you, I did have a minor aversion to heights, but once I was up there, though, it was no biggie, because the railings are adequately high.
Only minorly scary thing is when you're walking on the metal floor and you step on a part that is slightly bowed upwards, and it makes a nice sound as it drops like a quarter of an inch and gives you a heart attack.. :D
I used to work in P.R. for the Ducks and being up in the press box is truly unique. When Calgary scores and the flames are ignited, it feels like you are in an oven up there.
I think these videos are fascinating! You should consider making a series with this exact video concept for arenas across the NHL!
The "you" is the official Blues channel...
@@deggis4 Indeed. I was going to talk about it in my original comment and I forgot. They could still make it happen since they face every team. Only thing is, from the Blues Administrative standpoint, it's not so appealing to showcase other teams arenas.
IT is cool, but i do think it's likely that almost every other one would just be "take elevator"
@@gregbyrne6909 That’s exactly how it works here in Minnesota. Take the elevator (assuming you have credentials), get off, enjoy the view.
East access to the catwalks at the Xcel is right by the control room at the far end.
I took the public tour of the Montreal arena and they let you walk up on their broadcast catwalk. Seemed pretty similar to this.
That is amazing! Great view of the ice from the booth
Never really figured out how you could see anything from that far up though. I guess they all use monitors with the camera feed.
@@fleatactical7390 I'm sure they get to see all the angles by monitors, but watching the game from that view must be a sight to see
@@JackMuren Having toured the Blackhawks and Canadiens press boxes... I think I would rather watch ants instead. LOL. You just see dots. Not even jersey numbers.
Super fortunate to have been up there a few times! Such a unique experience.
wow, this is crazy, my hands are soaked just watching this.
amazing view
Thank you for this inside scoop from Calgary's Saddledome, St. Louis
Epic video. You are a saint for resisting the urge to include audio/narration in post. Many more like this please.
The fact that you have to walk across the stadium to go to your broadcast booth is.. wow
This is just the long way. There's actually a short catwalk leading to the gondolas from the press level seating on each side of the arena.
That's the Ed Whalen broadcast booth. It's named after the late great Ed Whalen. A Calgary legend and play by play expert. He also did the show, "Stampede Wrestling " owned by Stu Hart the father of Bret the hitman Hart and Own Hart.......... Great Memories.
*bret
@@That90sShow yes got it thanks.
I attended a few games when I was stationed at Malmstrom AFB. Calgary was only a couple of hours away so I did weekend trips etc. Great barn. Fans are awesome as well.
That is awesome. Familiarity with heights breaks fears and builds comfort.
Look at all the work that was done by man through that walk. Blue collar workers build some amazing structures. I am one!
It is impressive
@@Diddy_Do_It2037 impressive, very nice.
0:38 Amazing the amount of networking switches and servers in racks above the scoreboard that everyone has to pass by. Almost all stadiums would have dedicated server room/closets that are locked and secured.
Well Calgary arena is how old now
I'm guessing that some of that might have been moved up there after the 2013 flood.
Ha! Glad I wasn’t the only network geek to notice that. I thought “Hey, wait, stop, lemme see what those servers are…”
@@zlinedavid lol same!
Looks more like amplifiers and other audio or video equipment
I worked at one of the NHL arenas for quite a few years. The one I worked at the cat walk is quite a bit higher by the looks of it do to the design of the building compared to the saddledome. Took me quite sometime to be "comfortable" being up 200+ft. It's a hell of a lot scarier in person. Especially when you pulling or lowering cable over the ends. It was worth it though as I got to control the concert curtain motor box most of the time up there as not to many people learned how to. I'd spend half my shift up there why'll everyone else down below would be doing labour. So 💩 my pants half the time was worth it if it meant for as easy shift. 😅
May I ask where you worked?
I wouldn’t be able to take a single step out there
You weren’t up 200+ feet
@@HavingFun-nj5oc crazy how some stranger over the internet is going to tell me what I did or didn't do. I'm pretty sure I know how high up the cat walk is at the NHL arena I use to work at was.
@@NotWBT you’ve already been asked and didn’t answer so I’ll ask again, what arena was it?
Thanks for this. I haven't thought about Ed Whalen in years.
Very cool. Surprising that this is posted by St. Louis Blues account and not the flames. I was always curious being from Calgary and seeing it up there all the time.
This is the coolest shit, man. I’d be like a kid in a candy store with that kind of view and walkway vantage point so high above.
Being an avalanche fan and living in Edmonton at the same time. This is simultaneously the only blues/flames video I’ll ever like.
There is no way I could walk it! I had anxiety just watching from the viewers prospective 😱😱😱
Same here, I hate heights don't think I would ever do this
🫣
Holy jumpin', as Panger would say. That is scary yet awesome at the same time.
Tiger Stadium in Detroit used to have these same walkways to the upper deck. Love this old style. Miss the old days
I think this is the coolest thing i saw about nhl rinks so far
This shit looks like when they finished building the arena someone said “looks good, but where’s the press box?”
You can access it from the other side as well. At 1:36 you can she the much shorter access at the end of the walkway going to the left. Attending home games, that's where I'd wait to meet the media as they enter/exit therr as opposed to going to long way the video showed (which is for access to the scoreboard brains, etc).
Thank you for sharing this. I was watching this thinking how absurd it was that the path via a catwalk was the only option to get there.
It is more about convenience. IIRC the media rooms are all at ice level behind the team benches, for them to get to the press box, they take an elevator up from the side closest to the media areas and walk across the catwalk. They COULD climb all the stairs to the 300 level and use the access gantry from the concourse but that is tough when the house is packed.
Wow. That gives new meaning to sitting in the rafters.
years ago i got to spend some time with legendary WHL announcer Mike Boyle and he told me this was the craziest booth he'd ever been in.... now i know what he was talkin about😨
in love with bts stuff like this!! please please please keep it up!!
Impressive how much weight that roof is holding up.
When I was still in school my teacher took us kids to Calgary. First stop was Calaway Park. Later the Saddledome. Saw center ice with the rest of the students. Great time
That's so cool I didn't know Calgary's broadcast booth was suspended like this.
This is crazy I wouldn’t be able to take 2 steps , I would never have been a sports broadcaster that’s for sure!!!
i would have to call in sick anytime the boys went to calgary lol
Is it mandatory or at least encouraged to sing or hum the hockey night in Canada theme song when walking out?
I just got done broadcasting my high school's basketball game!!!
John Kelly is the best!!
His dad was even better!
Thank you for the 1 second view from the broadcast booth.
hit pause?
@@RIUUI007 right? People complain about everything haha and hitting pause literally solves the problem
That made my back tingle.
Did you see how nice those cables were ran along the catwalks..definately union installed..the non union just throws crap up in a knot and searches for issues later.
Love the saddle dome. Sad to hear she’s coming down soon
WHAT
@@Azraelson yea
@@Azraelson they've wanted a new arena for a while. Even threatened to relocate at one point if the city didn't build it
@@Azraelson apparently a little bit of the roof has been collapsing, and falling apart
They've been saying that for more than a decade and trying to plan it. EVEN before the huge flood. If it aint broke...........
Dude definitely took the scenic route
Super whoa. Thank you!
I was at that game! always wondered what it was like up there
I've done that walk a few times it's scary as all hell
Such a fascinating area. Being able to work in those kinds of places makes going to work magical.
...and just like that, my broadcasting ambitions are crushed.
This made me want to watch Sudden Death lol
That is Crazy!! I does give a good view of the ice, though...
Unfortunately in Canada I only have access to the SN feed so I don't even get to hear my favorite broadcasters call the game, but at least I'll know John Kelly will have a great view!
Someone would have to lead me to my chair, blindfolded, if I were on-air analyst.
you should do this with every nhl arena y'all visit
I love this video.
What a trek. Similar vibe to Copps Colliseum in Hamilton.
The only NHL game I've ever been to so far, I sat in those seats that were behind the broadcast booth. Players looked like ants. Nabokov made some nice saves as an ant, though, I remember.
Lmfao as an ant hahaha 😆
I guess this is why announcers always say "high above the action" when they describe where they are
Cam I come down and tour that? And possibly sit in during the game seeing all the action?
What’s funny is they didn’t have to go across all that to get there. Could have easily accessed the broadcast booth from the side it is on. You can literally see the ramp closer to the end of the video. Although it is a lot more fun the route they took 😂
Really neat...I gotta ask - bathrooms and fire escape?
Is there a faster escape route in the event of a fire?
I've been up on the catwalks of Amway and Amalie Arena setting up for various shows/concerts, a bit nerve racking at first but definitely worth it!
I use to work for a security job compagny and sometimes during big concert they would put us up there for a look out spot.
I went on the catwalk once at my old uni. Never again! It wasn’t nearly as high as this, but it was still terrifying.
Rexall Place had a similar catwalk high above, for the press
Now do one where the guy playing the organ sits
Isnt that the old arena where roof/ceiling is caving in and they're using netting to catch debris ?
Can you imagine being afraid of heights and having to walk that .
I did just that. Kept a tight grip on the railings and my camera.
@Canman99 OMG, Did look down while you we're walking?
@@marie2274 Yes, carefully. It was a fascinating vantage point of an arena I love, but I was nervous up there.
So the broadcast team has to go up there to go to the booth?
That is waaaay up there
The architect of the Saddledome must have been inspired by the difficult-to-get-to Foster Hewitt gondola at the old Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto.
I think San Jose is the same way right? I mean, when they built SAP Center/HP Pavilion, they didn’t build it with pressboxes so they had to design it high above the building itself.
wtf? why didn't they just make the entrance from the same side of the rink that the booths are actually on?
You can enter from either side. He's just showing the whole catwalk.
This is like spy footage. The blues uploading footage of the Flames arenas secret tunnels
As a photographer, I just see so many good places there to put some remotes. 😁
I was so confused on why the Blues posted this video until I remembered that away broadcasts exist lol
I’ve been looking for videos like this and the other team shows it not the flames
I work in video production and have a great fear of heights. Definitely don't think I could do this job; my hat off to whomever can.
Ed Whalen now that’s a name I haven’t heard in a long time…..He of course called wrestling matches for the Hart Family in Calgary
Now we need one when the torch lights up when they score please 🙏🏼
This is one of the things I’m terrified of for when I become a pa announcer for a nhl team one day lol
Some of the best seats in the house and the folks up there get paid to be there. Amazing! Lucky them!
(Also, was I the only one who thought of the Bob's Burgers "Broadcast Wagstaff School News" episode?)
I will go learn everything needed just to have a chance to work there lol
That's where the phrase DON'T LOOK DOWN comes from!
Amazing views. Do any of the spectator seats right at the back have restricted views?
Hope they aren't afraid of heights!!
There are seats behind the broadcast booth…those must be the worst seats in the house
Fire hazard 101 right here and those thicker white rope/hose looking things, are they pre connected fire hose lines or are the for the scoreboard or something?
safety slings for if they lower the clock
Best seats in the house!
Am I watching a gif or a video on TH-cam? Without sound, I can only enjoy this to a point, what are we doing here?
I worked in an arena where the catwalk floor was mesh . My balls ached the entire time I had to walk up there and when I got done they hurt for about a half hour after.
seems like that would be the long way. Is there not access from the other side of the arena?
There is. Like you said this is the long way for dramatic effect lol.
ok so I'm terrified of heights and I might have pooped a little watching this
Awesome!
Are most rinks like this?
Why is there a St Louis Blues logo at the end?
Hopefully that's not the only way to get there. What if there's a medical emergency in the broadcast booth?
So… there’s no other way up there, like from the other side? 😮
And all that structural steel, including those walkways and platforms were erected by Canadien Ironworkers Local 725. I salute my Brothers.#IW392