The Bandettes at the Open Practice and Meet and Greet

With the struggles of the Bills and Sabres in Buffalo in regards to winning consistently, it's nice for the city to have one team they can count on to not only deliver consistent playoff appearances, but the occasional championship as well. The Buffalo Bandits, in their 21st year of existence, held their annual Open Practice on Saturday at the First Niagara Center and introduced the fans to the 2012 Buffalo Bandettes! This year's squad comes with a lot of changes. Gone are long-time vets Melissa and Beth, currently with the Jills, and Jessica H, Justina, and Lauren S, all retired. 4th year vet Kirsten is now the longest-tenured vet on the squad and is now a full-fledged captain along with 3rd year vet Lauren B. They've also added a small promotional squad this year. 3rd year vet Ashley is joined by rookies Ria and Amanda to fill out that squad which will be onhand at pregame parties and in suite appearances during the games.

Ria and Amanda

Lauren B's line

While the Bandits went through the 1st portion of their practice, Ria and Amanda circulated through the stands selling tickets to their Meet and Greet to be held that evening. When the team took a short break, the dancers came out and put on 2 performances for the fans, including their tryout performance.


Afterwards they joined Ria, Amanda, and Ashley in greeting fans and posing for photos in the stands and in the concourses of the arena. See all the pics at http://buffaloprocheerbuffalobandettes.shutterfly.com/pictures/4189
In the evening, the Bandettes invaded Cobblestone, the home of the Bandits post-game parties for a Meet and Greet fundraiser to help with uniform costs. Joining them were several players from the Bandits, including fan favorites like Johnny Tavares and Mark Steenhuis, and several Bandettes alumni. Showing up to support their younger sisters were former coach Erin J, Jenni (2001), Leeanne (2004), Erin H (2004-08), Kimberly (2004-08), Korinne (2003,08), Lauren S, (2009-11), and Meghan (2006-10).

Alumni together

Several members of the current squad

The 2012 Buffalo Bandettes (minus Ria, Amanda, Kirsten and Danielle)

The Bandettes sold tickets for a 50-50 raffle, Chinese Auction items, and a TV set to help support the cause. They even had a special Bandette-ini drink that was available for purchase on this special night. See all the pics at http://buffaloprocheerbuffalobandettes.shutterfly.com/pictures/4203
Next up for the Bandettes, they'll be in action for game action the first time in 2012 when the Bandits open the season on January 14th against the Toronto Rock!