How a Radio Jingle Sparked a Buffalo Sports Empire: The Terry Pegula Story
Fifty years ago, a simple radio jingle and the voice of a local DJ inadvertently set the stage for the creation of a major sports empire in Buffalo, New York. Terry Pegula, now a billionaire owner of the Buffalo Sabres and Buffalo Bills, credits his initial introduction to hockey and subsequent passion for the Sabres to a catchy tune and the keen promotion of the team on WGR 550-AM during his time working in Olean, N.Y.
From Petroleum Engineer to Sports Mogul: The Olean Connection
In the mid-1970s,Pegula,then a petroleum engineer,relocated to rural Western New York. It was there, while listening to WGR, that he became captivated by the buffalo Sabres, thanks to morning show host Stan Roberts and the relentlessly catchy song, ”We’re Gonna Win That Cup.”
“He’s the reason I own the Sabres,” Pegula stated in a 2019 interview. He explained how Roberts’ humor and the constant airplay of the Sabres’ theme song effectively “brainwashed” him into becoming a fan.
A Chain Reaction: From Sabres to Bills and Beyond
This newfound fandom ignited a chain reaction that would reshape the Buffalo sports landscape.Pegula’s passion for the Sabres lead to his eventual purchase of the team, followed by the acquisition of two National Lacrosse League teams and the Rochester Americans of the American Hockey League. His investments extended to the construction of the Harborcenter, a $200-plus million downtown growth, and ultimately, to the $1.4 billion purchase of the Buffalo Bills, solidifying his status as a key figure in the region.
Saving Buffalo Sports: A Legacy of Investment
Perhaps most substantially, Pegula’s involvement is credited with preventing the potential relocation of both the Sabres and the Bills, two cornerstones of the Buffalo community. Stan Roberts, the DJ who unwittingly sparked pegula’s interest, expressed immense pride in his role, however indirect, in keeping these teams in buffalo. “He saved that from happening,” Roberts said, referring to the possibility of the sabres and Bills leaving. “Anything I had to do with him getting there makes me proud.”
The Song That Started It All: “We’re Gonna Win That Cup”
Donna McDaniel, the singer of “We’re Gonna Win That Cup,” was unaware of the song’s profound impact on buffalo sports. She expressed astonishment upon learning that her voice had played a part in Pegula’s conversion into a sports mogul.
Navigating Challenges: Highs and Lows of Ownership
While Pegula’s investments have been celebrated, his tenure as owner hasn’t been without challenges. The Sabres’ lengthy playoff drought has frustrated fans, leading to criticism of Pegula’s management. despite the setbacks, the narrative remains a testament to how a simple radio broadcast can unexpectedly alter the course of a city’s sports history.
Buffalo Sabres’ 1975 Stanley Cup Run Fueled fan Frenzy, Novelty Song
In 1975, the Buffalo Sabres captivated the city with a remarkable Stanley Cup chase, fueled by the high-octane offense of the “French Connection” line and an electric atmosphere at Memorial Auditorium.
The “French Connection” Ignites Buffalo
Led by Gilbert Perreault, Rick Martin, and Rene Robert, the Sabres boasted a formidable attack.Each member of the famed “French Connection” line recorded at least 95 points during the season.Several others contributed with 30 goals or more. Standout performances included Don Luce’s remarkable plus-61 rating and Craig Ramsay’s plus-51. The defense,featuring Jerry korab,Jim Schoenfeld,and Bill Hajt,provided a solid foundation for goalies Gary Bromley and veteran Roger Crozier.
Packed House,Electric Atmosphere
“They broke all the fire laws that ever existed,” recalled Jim Lorentz,a right winger on the ’75 sabres. He remembered, “There were so many people in the building…The fan connection that we had was just amazing.And as the team got better and better, the excitement grew.”
Dominating the Adams Division
The Sabres clinched the Adams Division title by a critically importent 19-point margin. In the playoffs, they swiftly defeated the Chicago Blackhawks in five games before eliminating the Montreal Canadiens, who were then in the midst of a dynasty. The Sabres then faced off against owner Terry Pegula’s childhood favorite team for the Stanley Cup.
“We’re gonna Win That Cup”: An anthem for a City
The team’s popularity transcended the ice. A novelty sports song, “We’re Gonna Win That Cup,” captured the city’s fervent belief in their team. The song became an anthem, embodying the hope and excitement surrounding the Sabres’ quest for the Stanley Cup.
The lyrics celebrated key players like Don Luce, Roger Crozier, the “French connection,” Gare, and Jerry Korab, fueling the city’s enthusiasm.
Tommy calandra: The Man Behind the Music
“We’re Gonna Win That Cup” was written by Tommy Calandra. Calandra, a local music legend, had previously gained recognition as the bassist for Raven, a 1960s blues-rock band. He later returned to Buffalo, established a production studio, and composed numerous jingles and sports-related songs, earning Peabody Award and Pulitzer Prize nominations for his musical commentaries.
The B-side of the record featured Sabres highlights called by Ted Darling and Rick jeanneret.
Buffalo Sabres’ 1975 Anthem: A Story of Hope, Hype, and a Near Miss
A catchy tune, “We’re Gonna Win That Cup,” captured the fervent hopes of Buffalo Sabres fans during their exhilarating 1975 Stanley Cup Final run.Sung by local artist Donna McDaniel, the song became an unofficial anthem, permeating the city and even earning McDaniel the opportunity to perform it live on the ice.
The Sound of a City’s Stanley Cup Dream
The 1970s were a unique period for Buffalo sports, with athletes like O.J. Simpson and Sabres players venturing into entertainment.McDaniel noted how Sabres players would frequent Mulligan’s, a place where fans would come to be around them.
For McDaniel,the Sabres’ song served as a launchpad. Garnering local success, she later joined Motley Crue’s background vocal group, Nasty Habits, before touring with billy Idol and performing with members of Toto and the Eagles.
Stan Roberts: The Voice of the Sabres
Integral to the Sabres’ popularity was WGR radio personality Stan Roberts, a Buffalo broadcasting icon. Roberts, known for his humor and distinctive voice, conducted postgame interviews, replayed coach’s conferences, hosted the interactive “Ask the Sabres” segment, and served as the public address announcer at Rich Stadium for the Bills.
Roberts’ impact on the Sabres was significant, giving players a platform to connect with fans. As Terry Pegula said, “He was hilarious, a really witty guy.”
The cup that Wasn’t
Despite the excitement and the anthem’s optimistic message, the Sabres ultimately fell short, losing to the Philadelphia Flyers in the 1975 stanley Cup Final. Philadelphia goalie Bernie Parent proved impenetrable, stifling Buffalo’s offense.
Interestingly, the Sabres won both games in which McDaniel performed "We’re Gonna win That cup" before the start.
A Grateful, Yet unfulfilled Memory
Jim Schoenfeld, the Sabres’ 1974-75 captain, reflects on the song with a mix of happiness, nostalgia, and a tinge of disappointment, “I’m reminded we didn’t get the job done.” The 1975 sabres anthem “We’re Gonna Win That Cup” symbolizes a moment of intense hope and excitement in Buffalo sports history, forever intertwined with the team’s near-triumph.
Buffalo Sabres’ Stanley Cup Drought: A 54-Year Quest
The Buffalo Sabres’ quest for their first Stanley Cup continues into the franchise’s 54th year, marked by both hope and disappointment. Despite numerous attempts and a few close calls, the championship remains elusive. Multiple remakes of the team’s anthem, “We’re Gonna Win That Cup,” have proven premature, underscoring the enduring wait for a title.
Decades of Near Misses Plague Buffalo
since their inception, the sabres have missed the playoffs 25 times. Under current owner terry Pegula, they’ve failed to reach the playoffs in all but 11 seasons. Previous owners, including the Knox family (6 misses in 27 seasons), John Rigas (1 miss in 5 seasons), and Tom Golisano (4 misses in 7 seasons), also experienced playoff absences.
Longest Championship Drought in north American Sports
The Sabres are currently tied with the New York Jets for the longest playoff drought among North America’s four major sports leagues. this prolonged absence from championship contention weighs heavily on fans and team alike.
‘A Fine Line Between Winning and Losing’
Ted Sator,who coached the Sabres,New Jersey Devils,Washington Capitals and Phoenix Coyotes,reflected on the challenges of achieving ultimate victory.He acknowledged the fine margins that separate triumph and defeat, a sentiment echoed by many who have been part of the Sabres’ journey.
Unfulfilled Prophecies of Victory
Throughout the years, updated versions of “We’re Gonna Win That Cup,” including collaborations with singers like Cathy miller in 1984 and Maria Sebastian in 1999 (lyrics by Buffalo News reporter Dale Anderson), have been created. Even a punk-pop cover by The Razzels couldn’t break the curse. the repeated optimism, however well-intentioned, only serves as a reminder of the unfulfilled dream.
Considering the provided Q&A, here are two PAA (People Also Ask) related questions:
How a Radio Jingle Sparked a Buffalo Sports Empire: The Terry Pegula story – Q&A
Here’s a Q&A too delve deeper into the remarkable story of Terry Pegula adn the Buffalo sports empire he built:
Q&A: The Terry Pegula Story
Q: How did a radio jingle lead Terry Pegula to own the Buffalo sabres and Bills?
A: Pegula, a petroleum engineer, was captivated by the Buffalo Sabres while listening to WGR 550-AM in the 1970s, especially by the team’s theme song, ”We’re Gonna Win That Cup.” this ignited his passion for the team, eventually leading him to purchase the Sabres and, later, the Buffalo Bills, considerably impacting Buffalo’s sports landscape.
Q: Who sang “We’re Gonna Win That Cup”?
A: The original song was sung by Donna McDaniel, a local artist. Later versions were created with different singers,including Cathy Miller and Maria Sebastian.
Q: What other teams did Terry Pegula acquire?
A: Pegula’s investments expanded beyond the Sabres and Bills to include two National Lacrosse League teams and the Rochester Americans of the American Hockey League.
Q: What role did Stan Roberts play in Pegula’s fandom?
A: Stan Roberts, a WGR radio personality, hosted a morning show and promoted the Sabres, effectively “brainwashing” Pegula into becoming a fan, according to Pegula himself. Roberts’ humor and the constant airplay of the theme song were key.
Q: Has Pegula’s ownership been without challenges?
A: No. While celebrated for his investments, Pegula’s tenure has faced criticism, primarily due to the Sabres’ lengthy playoff drought, which has frustrated fans.
Q: What was the ‘French Connection’?
A: The “French Connection” was a high-scoring line for the Buffalo Sabres in the 1970s, consisting of Gilbert perreault, Rick Martin, and Rene Robert. They were a key part of the team’s success and popularity at the time.
Q: Who wrote “We’re Gonna Win That Cup”?
A: The original song was written by Tommy Calandra, a local music legend who later gained recognition for his musical commentaries.
Q: What is the current status of the Buffalo Sabres’ Stanley Cup quest?
A: The Sabres are still seeking their first Stanley Cup,with their championship drought being the longest in North American professional sports,tied with the new York Jets.
Q: What is the importance of the 1975 Stanley Cup run?
A: The 1975 season was a pivotal moment for Buffalo Sabres fans. The team’s exciting play, led by the “French Connection,” created a city-wide fervor, fueled by the song “We’re gonna Win That Cup.” Even though they lost in the final,the season remains a cherished memory.
Q: What happened to the Sabres in the 1975 Stanley Cup Final?
A: Despite the excitement, the Sabres lost to the Philadelphia Flyers in the 1975 Stanley Cup Final. The Flyers’ goalie, Bernie Parent, proved difficult to score against, stifling Buffalo’s offense.
Q: What is the most interesting piece of trivia about the song?
A: The Sabres won both games in which Donna McDaniel performed “We’re Gonna Win That Cup” before the start.
Q: Why is the story of Terry Pegula significant?
A: It highlights the power of local media and community in shaping sports fandom and the significant impact an individual can have on a city’s identity and economic landscape through their passion and investment in sports.
the Terry Pegula story is a reminder that sometimes all it takes is a catchy tune and a dedicated radio personality to change the course of a city’s sports history.Will the Sabres finally win that cup? only time, and perhaps a new anthem, will tell.
