Red Wings terminate longtime operations manager Al Sobotka

Detroit — Al Sobotka, longtime Zamboni driver and favorite of Red Wings fans, has been terminated by the organization, sources confirmed with The Detroit News on Wednesday afternoon.

Sobotka was long known for twirling an octopus and igniting the crowds at Joe Louis Arena and Little Caesars Arena, specifically during the playoffs.

There was no immediate comment from the Red Wings.

Sobotka said in an official statement: "I loved my 51 years with the Detroit Red Wings, and would have been happy to stay 51 more."

Sobotka was the popular building operations manager/Zamboni driver/barbecue chef for the team and generally one of the more popular Wings figures off the ice, especially come playoff time.

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