from David Kolb of The Fischler Report,

The term “unsung” is usually bruited about in reference to hockey players.

But as we approach the Stanley Cup Final, unsung has been redefined and reserved for a woman.

The NHL’s Nicole Buckley excels behind the scenes making sure each NHL event is spectacular and unique in its own way and unfolds without a hitch – regardless of the obstacles.

As the NHL’s Coordinator of Event Communications she has been a rising star since signing on with the league in 2010. Not surprisingly, since then, the league has jumped far ahead of the curve when it comes to building unique events.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and COO John Collins have been the significant architects behind the lucrative and transcending outdoor games, starting with the Winter Classic.

The January 1st game blossomed into this past season’s popular Stadium Series and the better-than-ever Heritage Classic, which takes place annually in a Canadian venue.

The opinion of the hockey fan is virtually unanimous in agreeing that the games have been “a must-see event” either on television, or – at least once, in person.

“You have to be at these events to understand how the game becomes a gathering point for a community, the way a community lights up around hockey,” Collins explains.

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