'Tickets for Troops' and 'Ultimate Sabres Fan' programs return for 2012-13 season

The Buffalo Sabres have announced they will once again offer the "Tickets for Troops" and "Ultimate Sabres Fan Experience" programs for the 2012-13 season.

Tickets for Troops is a program made possible by Sabres forward Nathan Gerbe that provides game tickets to military service members throughout the season. Gerbe will provide a pair of tickets to a different military member from Western New York starting with Sunday's home opener against Philadelphia, and continuing for each of Buffalo's 23 remaining regular-season home games this year.

Military members who would like to be considered for these tickets can visitwww.Sabres.com to complete the "Tickets for Troops" application. The seats are located in Sec 100, Row 18.

"Tickets for Troops" is a non-profit organization founded in 2007 to show appreciation for and give thanks to the members of the military for the hardships they endure and the sacrifices they make while on deployment.

The "Ultimate Sabres Fan" experience gives fans a special opportunity to experience a Sabres game like never before. Fans can win an "experience" by participating in an online auction with a winner chosen for each of the Sabres' 24 home games in 2012-13. All proceeds of the auctions will go directly to the Buffalo Sabres Foundation.

Each "Ultimate Sabres Fan Experience" will consist of:

• Two tickets to a Sabres home game; Section 111, Row 1.

• Opportunity to watch the pre-game skate from the Sabres' penalty box.

• Access to the VIP rope line between periods to watch the players take the ice.

• Recognition on the HD video board during the game.

• Opportunity to attend Lindy Ruff's post-game press conference.

Winners will also receive an exclusive "Buffalo Sabres Ultimate Fan Pack," including a game program and free parking.

The "Ultimate Fan Experience" auction can be accessed through the Sabres Foundation auction section on www.NHL.com. Bidding has already commenced, and will end two days prior to the game date.