A modest household in the Rhineland town of Neukirchen‑Vluyn has opened its doors to a very specific kind of visitor: die‑hard Ottawa Senators fans planning to watch the NHL’s first ever games in Germany this December.
Ingo Schmitt, a lifelong hockey enthusiast who learned to skate on frozen lakes as a child, shares his home with his wife Jutta and their teenage son Ben, a modern family that lives just a short drive from the Düsseldorf arena.
A Home Icebreaker Across the Atlantic
The family’s offer, posted on Reddit, is entirely non‑commercial. No fees are charged, and the invitation emphasizes cultural exchange, shared meals and the chance to explore Düsseldorf’s famous Christmas markets while swapping stories about the sport.
Two dates dominate the schedule – December 18 and 20 – when the Senators will face off against local opponents in Düsseldorf. The games mark the first time the franchise steps onto German ice, part of the NHL’s broader push to grow the game beyond North America.
Ingo’s love for hockey began on the frozen waters of his youth, a passion that later led him to become an active member of Germany’s small but fervent hockey community. He follows the sport closely, even as he cheers for the local team despite the time‑zone challenges.
While Senators star Tim Stützle, a native of a nearby town, is expected to be in attendance, the Schmitt family says they have no favourite side – their goal is simply to welcome fellow fans and foster international connections.
Guests would be invited to join the family for home‑cooked meals, to experience German hospitality, and to discover the city’s historic Altstadt and seasonal festivities, turning a sporting event into a broader cultural encounter.
Beyond the Game
The initiative reflects a growing trend of fans seeking more than just a ticket; they want a story, a shared experience that transcends the rink. The Schmitts, though yet to receive a taker, remain hopeful that the right group of enthusiasts will answer the call.
For the NHL, the venture is a test of global appeal, a chance to gauge how quickly a sport can travel from the frozen ponds of Canada to the cobblestone streets of Düsseldorf, and how communities can bridge that gap with generosity and passion.