Grand Rapids Griffins are back! Theme song of the day as we prepare for game 1

The Detroit Red Wings organization is getting set for round 2 of the playoffs. 

An extended layoff left plenty of practice and rest time for the Grand Rapids Griffins, the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate to the Detroit Red Wings. 

Their opponent is blazing hot, winning 3 straight (must-win) games to advance to round 2 of the playoffs. Boasting the best record in the central division, the Grand Rapids Griffins have a great opportunity ahead of them.

These upcoming games will test the Grand Rapids Griffins even more than round 1. In a best of 5 games, only 1 is guaranteed to be a home game. Most notably, the Grand Rapids Griffins broke records at the Van Andel Arena this season.

It was an accomplishment that the Grand Rapids Griffins didn’t seem to hang their helmets on during the first round of the playoffs. They played exceptionally well on the road in round 1 and in a game at home, demonstrating the growth in their overall game.

The mix of calm, determined veterans with emotional, exuberant young players creates a healthy, advantageous, and harmonious balance. 

As round 2 begins this evening (8 ET on AHL.tv or 96.1 The Game), I have added a new song to the Grand Rapids Griffins unofficial playlist. If you missed the first installments you can read about them here, here, and here.  Please note there is swearing in some songs.

This time around, let’s travel back to 1982 (the year this classic was released). Hold tight and make sure your tray tables and seats are in the upright position!

"“Risin’ up, back on the stree
Did my time, took my chances
Went the distance, now I’m back on my feet
Just a man and his will to survive

So many times, it happens too fast
You trade your passion for glory
Don’t lose your grip on the dreams of the past
You must fight just to keep them alive

It's the eye of the tiger, it’s the thrill of the fight
Risin’ up to the challenge of our rival
And the last known survivor stalks his prey in the night
And he’s watching us all with the eye of the tiger”"

- Survivor – “Eye of the Tiger”

Here’s to hoping the long layoff doesn’t cause trouble. The Grand Rapids Griffins are ready, back on their feet from the first puck drop to the final buzzer. 

As importantly as starting on time and finishing the game strong, the Grand Rapids Griffins must not get too high. It seemed like game 3 was a bit of a reality check. Nothing will be handed to the Grand Rapids Griffins.

Rather, they must earn every inch of ice, every shot on goal, and every second of ice time. 

When they play hard, communicate, and take care of each other, things have evened out for them so far in their season. 

With the on-ice practices and off-ice team bonding experiences, I suspect the Grand Rapids Griffins will continue to build a path taking deliberate, methodical, and important steps in the first game of this series.

The guaranteed home game is Wednesday, May 22, with $2 hot dogs and beers. 

Additionally, watch parties are happening in Grand Rapids, Michigan, for away games.

Here’s the playoff schedule and hypnotic Simon Edvinsson: