Meatballs ready for Landeskog's return

The injury to Gabriel Landeskog left more than just a hole in the Kitchener Rangers line-up. It also left a hole in the atmosphere at The Aud, where some of Landeskog's biggest fans look forward to his weekly appearances.

The so-called "Swedish Meatballs" sit along the ice in the corner of the rink, wearing long blond wigs, carrying Swedish flags and displaying signs, often written in Swedish script.

It all started around Halloween 2009, when one fan in a group of four challenged his friends to wear a costume to the game. If they didn't, he'd bring something for all of them to wear.

"I brought along four blond wigs and a few Swedish flags and we decided that we'd cheer on (former Ranger) Patrik Andersson and Gabe during that game. And it just kind of rolled from there," says self-proclaimed "Head Meatball" John Poole.

While Andersson is no longer with the team, the Meatballs have kept up with tradition in honour of the Rangers current captain. Poole says Landeskog has responded well to the gesture, often acknowledging the group during warm-ups and posing with them for pictures.

The outrageous garb comes with a few tricks, including a habit of handing out candy to fans seated nearby and also to visiting players.

"Because we sit right here by the visitors area, we're handing out Swedish Berries to the guys," Poole says with a laugh. "And whenver Gabe scores we're handing them out. It's been a lot of fun."

Landeskog returns to the line-up tonight after a 15-game absence due to an ankle injury. Broadcast time is 7 PM on 570 News.