Beantown's Brawlers: A Guide to Boston's Pro Sports Teams (For the Clueless or Curious)
Ah, Boston. City of baked beans, history so rich it practically begs for a side of brown bread, and a whole lotta championship banners. But beyond chowder and cobblestones, Boston boasts a smokin' hot lineup of professional sports teams. If you're new to the area, or just a sports newbie in general, this here's your guide to the teams that make Boston tick (and roar, and cheer with enough fervor to wake the ghosts of Paul Revere).
Fenway Faithful and Beyond: Baseball's Boston Red Sox
Let's start with America's pastime, shall we? The Boston Red Sox are as ingrained in Boston's fabric as Dunkin' Donuts (and let's be honest, that's saying something). Fenway Park, their historic stadium, is practically a character in itself, with its quirky dimensions (pesky pole, anyone?) and seats so close to the field you might snag a foul ball (or a hot dog, if you're not careful). The Red Sox are known for their passionate fanbase (Red Sox Nation, anyone?) and their dramatic comebacks. Just ask the Yankees – they know a thing or two about being on the wrong side of a Boston rally.
Bonus Fun Fact: The Red Sox even have a curse (allegedly)! Look up the "Curse of the Bambino" if you're feeling brave (or just want some entertainment).
Slapshots and Showdowns: The Boston Bruins on Ice
Now, let's trade bats for sticks and head over to the bone-chillingly exciting world of hockey. The Boston Bruins are a force to be reckoned with on the ice. Their fans are as tough as hockey pucks, and the atmosphere at TD Garden is electric (especially when the team's black and gold clad). If you're looking for a fast-paced game with enough body checks to make your teeth chatter, then a Bruins game is the ticket.
Pro Tip: Bundle up – it gets FRIGID at the rink, even in the heat of summer!
Hoops Dreams in the Hub: The Boston Celtics
Basketball fans, rejoice! The legendary Boston Celtics are another crown jewel of Boston sports. This team practically invented winning (well, okay, maybe not literally, but they have a whopping 18 NBA championships to their name). Catch a game at TD Garden and witness the magic of players like Larry Bird and Bill Russell come alive (well, sort of, through epic highlight reels).
Did You Know? The Celtics are known for their iconic green uniforms. Don your own green gear and join the "Bleed Green" movement!
Foxborough's Finest: The New England Patriots (Not Quite in Boston, But Close Enough)
Okay, technically the New England Patriots play in Foxborough, but they deserve an honorable mention here. This dynasty of American football has dominated the league for years, thanks in no small part to the legendary coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady (who may or may not be a robot, that's a whole other story). Gillette Stadium is where the magic (and the screaming fans) happen.
Side Note: If you're heading to a Patriots game, be prepared to tailgate like a champion. Parking lots transform into a sea of grills, lawn chairs, and enough food to feed a small army (and yes, there will probably be some lobsters involved).
From the Stands to the Streets: The Beautiful Game Takes Root (Finally!)
Boston's newest major league sports team is the New England Revolution. Yes, that's right, soccer has finally taken hold in the land of baseball and hockey. The Revs, as they're affectionately called, play at Gillette Stadium alongside the Patriots, and their passionate fanbase is growing every year.
Calling all Footie Fans: Don't be surprised if the soccer chants sound suspiciously similar to those heard at hockey games. Hey, some traditions are hard to break!
How to Spot a Boston Sports Fan in the Wild: A Crash Course
- Fashion Sense: Look for an abundance of team jerseys, hats, and scarves (especially in team colors). Bonus points for vintage gear or obscure player t-shirts.
- The Local Lingo: Be prepared for terms like "wicked awesome," "packy," and the ever-important "How about them Sox?!"
- Strong Opinions: Boston fans are passionate, to say the least. They have opinions on every call, every trade, and every player (and they're not afraid to share them
