Written by: Imran Nafis Rashid, MS in Business Analytics ’24
As an international student, the opportunity to delve into American culture is always an exciting prospect. I had the chance to do just that when a local friend from Buffalo invited me to attend a baseball game between the Buffalo Bisons and the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs, marking my inaugural live baseball experience.
The game took place at Sahlen Field, the home of the Buffalo Bisons, known colloquially as the Herd. With free tickets in hand (though the regular prices ranged from $17 to $21), I settled into my seat behind home plate, ready for an evening filled with thrills, spills and, as it turned out, a taste of American culinary delights.
To add a flavor of excitement, the day’s promotion, aptly named TWOsday, meant $2 Sahlen’s hot dogs were available throughout the game. It was a tasty bonus to complement the baseball action unfolding before us.
Speaking of action, the Buffalo Bisons wasted no time in making my first live game memorable. My introduction to the home-run experience was nothing short of spectacular—a grand slam by the Bisons. For the uninitiated, a grand slam is a home run hit with all three bases occupied by baserunners, resulting in four runs. With this explosive start, the Bisons gained momentum and dominated the Iron Pigs, ultimately securing a 12-4 victory.
The entertainment wasn’t limited to the game itself. Halftime brought additional joy with appearances by the iconic Conehead, a beloved sports personality of the Buffalo Bisons, and a lively dance performance by the team’s mascot, Buster T. Bison. These moments added a delightful touch to the overall experience, making it more than just a sporting event.
My first Buffalo Bisons game was an unforgettable blend of sporting prowess, culinary delights and entertaining halftime spectacles. For fellow international students, I highly recommend attending a baseball game to immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of American culture. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or not, the lively atmosphere, thrilling moments and unique traditions make it an experience worth having. Grab a ticket, enjoy the game and savor the taste of American pastime – both on and off the field.
Bio: Imran, born in Bangladesh, holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, majoring in marketing and finance, which has equipped him with a solid base. During his undergraduate years, he also served as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant, nurturing his passion for learning and attaining knowledge. With over eight years of experience in sales and marketing across industries such as logistics, consumer packaged goods and printing, he’s thrived in globally renowned multinational companies such as British American Tobacco and Canon Canada Inc. He is currently pursuing a Master’s of Science in Business Analytics at UB with the ultimate goal of acquiring the necessary skills to work within the realm of sports, specifically in soccer or with a Formula 1 racing team. His dream is to seamlessly merge his analytical expertise with his passion for sports, creating a fulfilling career in a dynamic and exciting industry.
Imran is an avid sports enthusiast and ardent reader with a deep passion for fantasy fiction. He spends his days engaged in various sports, both as a spectator and an analytical thinker. When he’s not immersed in the world of sports, he’s captivated by fantasy TV shows and fictional books that transport him to other realms. Apart from these pursuits, he holds a special fondness for cats due to their enigmatic nature.