With fall getting into full swing, the cool air and changing leaves are symbols that hockey season is just around the corner. The Pioneers will be hitting the ice for the first time this fall on Oct. 10, opening against the Air Force Academy at Magness Arena.
And while it may seem like there’s an endless season ahead of us, it will be over before you know it, so it’s crucial to enjoy it to the fullest. Here’s how:
Attend the hockey ticket campout
There is no better way to get pumped for the upcoming season than gathering with your friends for a night of fun, food and prizes in the early October chill. When you wake the next morning sleeping in line, or in a tent, you can purchase your season tickets at a discounted price of $52. If you’re lucky, you could even win a Golden Ticket, which gets free admission to all 18 home games. At the campout, you will be greeted by the Pioneer players and maybe even some donuts. So make sure you’re in attendance Oct. 2 and 3 outside of Magness Arena.
Find your Pio fan club
Gather a group of friends from your floor, from a club or that kid you sit next to in class and get pumped. Make it a group outing by grabbing dinner before the game. The larger your community, the more fun you’ll have. Home games are played on Friday and Saturday nights, so if you have that project due Monday, work it out on Friday night and treat yourself Saturday.
Know your players.
Our players come from all over the world. Some have even been drafted by National Hockey League (NHL) teams such as the Boston Bruins or the Los Angeles Kings. Check out the hockey website and see who is playing for our team. That way, when you’re sitting in the stands on a Friday night, you will know what they mean when they call out 2-9 or when they refer to Arnold—that’s the team captain by the way.
Be prepared
Winter months can be brutal with cold drafts, persistent midterms and dorm life. So keep up on your vitamin C, your throat and your grades. It will all be worth it come November when you’re screaming “defense” in Magness a weekend before finals. Wear layers, too. Magness looks pretty ‘cool’ and all, mostly because it is. It’s an ice rink. So wear your Under Armour, your parka or your turtle neck underneath your hockey jersey. You won’t regret this one. And lastly, get a foam finger. Pointing at the opposing team with a foam hand larger than your face gets rather intimidating in a crowd of 7,000. It’s also gentle on the glass so there’s no need to worry.
Represent your Crimson and Gold
Wear every piece of crimson and gold clothing you own–layers again–and show your pride. You can go all out with a fully-painted face and or simple with the t-shirt you got at orientationtwo red streaks on each cheek. Whatever you choose to wear, just make it known that you are a Pioneer and you’re here to cheer.
Whether you are a full-blown fan waiting on the boards two hours before the game, or someone who just wants to become better-acquainted with DU come last minute, always show off your Pio pride.
