Pair of Sean/Shawn Ryans pump up Sabres fans

Buffalo mayor and Sabres fan share name, become good luck charms for home team

Apr. 10, 2026 at 1:37pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, with sweeping brushstrokes capturing the energy and excitement of a hockey game, the faces of the two Ryans blending into the composition.The shared name and enthusiasm of Buffalo's mayor and a Sabres fan created an unforgettable moment of community spirit at a recent home game.Buffalo Today

A pair of Sean/Shawn Ryans proved to be the Buffalo Sabres' good luck charm during a recent victory over the Seattle Kraken. Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan was invited to bang the drum to get the crowd fired up before the game, while Sabres fan Shawn Ryan was also in attendance, leading to a fun mix-up that energized the home team and fans.

Why it matters

The Sabres have struggled to build consistent fan engagement in recent seasons, so any opportunity to create a fun, memorable in-game experience can help boost morale and excitement around the team. The serendipitous pairing of the two Ryans provided a lighthearted moment that resonated with the Buffalo community.

The details

When Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan learned he was going to bang the drum to get the crowd fired up before the Sabres took on the Seattle Kraken, he was thrilled. Meanwhile, Sabres fan Shawn Ryan was also in attendance, leading to a mix-up where the two Ryans were mistaken for each other. The confusion was cleared up, but not before the pair's shared name and joint enthusiasm helped energize the Sabres to victory.

  • Mayor Ryan banged the drum before the Sabres game on April 8, 2026.

The players

Sean Ryan

The mayor of Buffalo, New York, who was invited to bang the drum before a Sabres game.

Shawn Ryan

A Buffalo Sabres fan who was also in attendance at the game, leading to a mix-up with Mayor Ryan.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I was so pumped to get the crowd going before the game, and then when I saw the other Ryan, I knew we had to make the most of it.”

— Sean Ryan, Buffalo Mayor

The takeaway

The serendipitous pairing of the two Ryans provided a lighthearted moment that resonated with the Buffalo community, highlighting the power of simple, fun in-game experiences to boost team morale and fan engagement.