Fans love hockey night in Ogden

The Weber State University Hockey Team opened its 2007-2008 season with an action-packed home opener, in front of an action-filled crowd.

The Weber County Ice Sheet hadn't seen a crowd like that in a while. The place was packed, and it was pretty loud. This year, fans can sit in the first two rows of seats, right beside the ice surface, and pound on the glass as much as they want, creating a more intimate atmosphere. In past seasons, the first two rows were roped off for some reason. The crowd also had a standing student section that was especially loud and into the action.

There were a few celebrity sightings at the game­ ­- at least celebrities in terms of WSU celebrities - highlighted by a couple WSU freshmen volleyball players from Canada. Kim Lissinna and Katie Mario, who both hail from the province of Saskatchewan, were right into the action, yelling at the refs and berating the opposing players. You would think they could take all of that aggression out on volleyballs. I guess this proves that everyone needs a little hockey to let go of that unwanted aggression. Lewis Gale, dean of the Goddard School of Business was also at the game. His presence obviously proves that watching hockey will give you a better business sense and a higher income.

Even with how stellar the fan support was Saturday night, there are a couple of items that can make next game even better.

Next time, bring a hat.

In the 12-1 thrashing Saturday night, there were two WSU players who both scored three goals in the game. In hockey, in case you weren't aware, that's called a hat trick. Typically, when someone scores a hat trick, fans will throw their hats on the ice to honor that player. Not one hat touched the ice Saturday. What a shame. So next game, be ready to throw a hat. If you don't want to throw your $50 New Era baseball cap, then bring an old one to throw. Add to the ambience.

Next time, bring a friend

There is still plenty of room to spare in the former Olympic Venue that is our Weber County Ice Sheet. The arena can be louder and the fan support can be better. So get the word out.

Next time, don't wear shorts

I know. The 91-degree days of summer aren't very far removed, but that doesn't mean you should wear shorts at the ice sheet. Professional hockey arenas have high-tech ice cooling mechanisms underneath the ice so that the playing surface can stay cool while heaters can run throughout the rest of the arena. The Ice Sheet does not have such high-tech equipment. The arena has to stay cold so that the ice stays cold. If the arena gets to warm, the ice gets soft, huge ruts get in the ice and the puck starts to roll. So wear pants, bring a blanket or stay warm jumping up and down while you're in the student section at the next game.