Your Guide to Rochester's Sport Teams

My First Red Wings Game

As a graduate student at RIT, life is often packed with classes, assignments, and research. But every once in a while, it’s refreshing to step away from the books and dive into the local culture and in Rochester, sports play a big part in that experience. One of my first real outings was to a Rochester Red Wings baseball game against the Buffalo Bisons. The night was electric, filled with energy, cheers, and the thrill of live sports. Though we lost the game, the Red Wings put up a strong fight, and the atmosphere more than made up for the result. 

One of the most special aspects of the night was seeing how the stadium celebrated moments with silent applause in respect for the Deaf community, a uniquely Rochester experience that made me feel connected to the city in a new way.

The evening closed with fireworks lighting up the sky, and to top it all off, I even got a ball signed by one of the Red Wings players, a memory I’ll hold on to from my first season here.

Rochester’s Hockey and Lacrosse Teams

Of course, Rochester’s sports scene doesn’t stop at baseball. The Rochester Americans, affectionately called the Amerks, are one of the oldest franchises in the American Hockey League. Their games are fast-paced, loud, and filled with tradition. Right alongside them, you’ll find the Rochester Knighthawks, who bring a whole new kind of energy in lacrosse, one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S. If you want a truly adrenaline-packed experience, a Knighthawks game will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Buffalo Bound: Bills and Sabres

Beyond Rochester, Buffalo is just a short drive away and home to the iconic Buffalo Bills (NFL) and Buffalo Sabres (NHL). The Bills are famous across the country for their passionate fanbase and game-day traditions, while Sabres games carry the excitement of top-tier hockey. These trips can be a great way to bond with friends and explore more of Western New York.

Spirit of RIT Sports

Back on campus, catching RIT sports is its own rewarding experience. From hockey games at the Gene Polisseni Center to soccer and basketball matches, supporting fellow Tigers builds a strong sense of community. As an international student, I’ve found these games to be a fun way to meet new people, share in the excitement, and feel a little closer to home.

Personal Reflection as an International Student

Speaking of home, the journey to RIT as an international student wasn’t always easy. I first heard about RIT while researching strong Computer Science programs with a balance of academic and industry connections. Leaving home and stepping into a new country came with its challenges, from adjusting to a new culture to managing life independently, but experiences like this baseball game remind me why I came here. Beyond academics, it’s about building memories, embracing new traditions, and discovering communities that make Rochester feel like home.

So whether it’s baseball in the summer, hockey in the winter, or campus games year-round, sports in Rochester are more than just events; they’re opportunities to connect, celebrate, and experience life beyond the books.