Tage Thompson’s Open Letter to the Buffalo Sabres, Fans, and Community: To the Buffalo Sabres Organization, Loyal Fans, and the Entire Buffalo Community, I am overwhelmed with gratitude and appreciation for this incredible journey we have shared. From the moment I arrived in Buffalo, I knew I was stepping into a hockey town that lived and breathed the sport with an unrivaled passion.
I’d want to take a moment to convey my gratitude to the Buffalo Sabres organization. The coaching staff, front office, trainers, and my teammates have all contributed significantly to my development as a player and a person. From the highs of triumph to the lessons of hardship, each experience has shaped me into the competitor I am today. Your trust and belief in me has motivated my desire to exceed my limitations and be the best version of myself every night.
To my teammates, you are brothers. Hockey is the ultimate team sport, and I wouldn’t be here without the constant support of my teammates in the locker room. We’ve formed bonds, fought battles together, and created memories that will last a lifetime. Wearing the Buffalo crest among you guys is an honor I will never take for granted.
To Sabres supporters, you are the franchise’s heartbeat. From the clamor of the crowd at KeyBank Center to the steadfast support on Buffalo’s streets, you exemplify what it means to be a die-hard hockey fan. Your dedication remains unwavering throughout every victory, goal, and even the most difficult moments. There is no better feeling than going onto the ice and knowing that we are representing a community that loves and believes in us. The enthusiasm you bring to each game is what makes Buffalo such a unique location to play.
Buffalo is more than simply a hockey town; it’s a community that treats its team like family. Whether it’s watching kids proudly wearing Sabres jerseys, meeting lifetime fans who have supported the team for decades, or witnessing the remarkable way this city rallies around its players, I feel genuinely honored to be a part of something much bigger than the game itself.
I’d also like to highlight the impact Buffalo has made on my personal development. The lessons I’ve learned here—about endurance, resilience, and gratitude—go well beyond the rink. This city has developed me not only as a player, but also as a person who strives to be better every day.
Looking forward, my dedication to Buffalo and this team is stronger than ever. We’ve created something unique together, and I believe our greatest days are yet ahead of us. We are hungry, determined, and eager to provide the success that this team and city deserve.
I sincerely thank you, Buffalo. Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for embracing me. Thank you for making this journey so memorable.
With deep thanks and pride,
Tage Thompson, Buffalo Sabres #72