Both Jimmy Hayes (Dorchester, Ma) and Brian Flynn (Lynnfield, Ma) grew up just minutes from Boston. Both went to Hockey East schools as Hayes was an Eagle of Boston College and Flynn was a Black Bear of the University of Maine. Both have played outdoor games at Fenway Park for their respective colleges and now both will play an outdoor game at Gillette Stadium for their respective NHL teams.
Growing up as New England Patriots fans, entering the gates of Gillette Stadium is always a memorable experience for both Hayes and Flynn, but none of their previous experiences will top the one they will face on New Year’s Day for the 2016 NHL Winter Classic.