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Love ’Em or Hate ’Em, Buffalo Fans Are Hardcore

Do you know the kind of grit it takes to tailgate in far-upstate New York during the dead of winter? Go to a Bills game, and you’ll see fans of all kinds, many rocking only a sweater and jeans. Don’t worry; they’ve got their love for the team to keep them warm and, you know, those hot wings of theirs. 

Buffalo fans don’t mess around, and that’s why we love them so much.

A City of Weird Sports Traditions 

We could watch the Bills Mafia tailgate all day long. In fact, sometimes it's more entertaining than what happens on the field. 

From ketchup soaking ceremonies to bowling ball shots to slamming folding tables, Bills fans always keep things interesting in the pre-game parking lots.

Bills fans are especially known for their unrelenting belief in the team. You see, the fandom got used to losing, going 17 years without a playoff appearance starting in 1999. While this could have deterred Bills fans from supporting their boys, it seemed only to strengthen their love for the team. And in the 2017 season, their loyalty paid off. 

The Bills have been a consistent postseason contender in the years since, and we’re hoping this could be the big year. The team is more powerful than ever.

In addition to cheering on the Bills, Buffalo has a lot of spirit for its National Hockey League team, the Sabres, who joined the league in 1971. Powered by the icy climate of upstate New York, the Sabres have won six division championships.

Remembering Beloved Buffalo Brands 

If you’re from the 716, you know how strong the sports culture is in Buffalo. From professional teams to the neighborhood flag football game, athletics are taken pretty seriously around these parts. 

Some franchises have come and gone, like the Buffalo Stampede, a roller hockey team in the 90s, the Stallions, who ruled indoor soccer in the 70s and 80s, and the Destroyers, who were short-lived well-loved AFL teams.

Local sports legends like that don’t just go away. They live on in the hearts and minds of all those lucky enough to call Buffalo home, sweet home. If you’re a fan of all things Nickel City, check out our collection devoted to Buffalo sportsdome.