During the 2025 NHL Stadium Series, Columbus Blue Jackets forward Olivier Bjorkstrand paid tribute to Ohio State University by donning an Ohio State football helmet during the team’s skate. This gesture highlighted the strong connection between the Blue Jackets and the local community, as Columbus, Ohio, is home to both the NHL team and the university’s renowned football program.
Bjorkstrand’s choice to wear the helmet during the skate underscored the city’s sports culture and the shared pride of its residents. Such acts of solidarity between professional sports teams and local institutions foster a sense of unity and celebrate regional identity.
The Stadium Series, known for featuring NHL teams playing outdoor games in iconic venues, serves as a platform for teams to engage with their fan base in unique ways. Bjorkstrand’s tribute to Ohio State exemplifies how athletes can honor local traditions and institutions, enriching the community’s experience of the event.
This display of local pride not only celebrated the Blue Jackets’ connection to Ohio State but also highlighted the broader significance of community engagement in sports, reinforcing the bond between teams and their supporters.
