The Utica Comets announced 10 things fans need to know for Wednesday’s home opener against the Rochester Americans. Fans are strongly encouraged to arrive early in order to beat traffic and experience the first unveiling of championship banners in the Utica Memorial Auditorium’s 56-year history. Doors will open at 5:35pm for season ticket holders, and 6:05 p.m. for the general public.
10 THINGS FANS CAN LOOK FORWARD TO AT THE CANUCKS HOME OPENER
1 – Banner Unveiling: Pre-game festivities will begin immediately following the pre-game warm-up. The celebration includes a video look back at last year’s Calder Cup Finals run, new pump-up videos for this season, and the unveiling of Western Conference, and North Division championship banners.
2 – Arrive early: Fans are strongly encouraged to arrive 30-45 minutes earlier than normal and to be in their seats for player introductions and other pre-game ceremonies that are planned. Doors will open at 5:35pm for season ticket holders, and 6:05 p.m. for the general public. The festivities will begin shortly after warmups.
3 – Kookie’s Q: New this year is a unique BBQ concession option located behind section 216. Kookie’s Q, named after one of our hardest working volunteers, Kevin Dowling (nicknamed ‘Kookie’), will feature a diverse and delicious menu highlighting the best of barbeque. By using a new in-house smoker, the meats will not only be authentic but also offer a change from the concession options available in all of the other stands. Ranging from barbecue brisket and pulled pork to homemade mac-n-cheese and baked beans, there is something for everybody.
4 – Big 50/50 Jackpot: Comets games always feature a hefty total for the 50/50 winner. Opening night’s 50/50 draw last year saw the third highest jackpot with the total climbing to over $11,000.
5 – One 9 Five 9: Another brand new addition to The AUD this year is a full service bar named One 9 Five 9. The bar, named in honor of the year construction of The AUD was completed, will be a full-service bar open to all fans 21 and older. Be sure to check out One 9 Five 9 located behind section 215.
6 – New Faces: The Comets roster consists of seven players participating in their first full season as a professional. Evan McEneny, Anton Cederholm, Ashton Sautner, Jordan Subban, Joseph LaBate, Cole Cassels, and Mackenze Stewart are rookies looking to bring their successful junior/college careers into the pro game. A few new veterans have joined the team as well. Taylor Fedun (San Jose), John Kurtz (Norfolk), Linden Vey (Vancouver), and Blair Jones (Philadelphia) infuse a veteran presence into the Comets line-up.
7 – #RAISEtheLEVEL: This year’s slogan challenges all of us. From the players and coaches to the front office and the fans; now is the time to “Raise the Level.” Last season was incredible, magical even. But there is still more to strive for. The competition, the motivation, the noise, the fun, and the experience will all reach new heights this season. Year three is when we, as a collective group, #RaiseTheLevel and show everyone that we are more than capable of continuing and growing upon our momentum from the past two seasons.
8 – Parking: The Utica Memorial Auditorium parking lot is now located behind The AUD, off of Whitesboro St. Parking is $5 for all Comets games. Fans are asked to NOT park in Labor Ready’s parking lot, as the Utica Police Department has been asked by the business owner’s to ticket cars that park in their lot.
9 –Ticketing Information: The Comets are proud to announce our brand new in-house ticketing system that will eliminate the middleman and add a whole new dimension to being a Utica Comets season ticket holder. Tickets to all Comets games are be available for purchase online (www.empirestatetix.com) or over the phone (1-866-688-8750).
10 – Posters: The game notes this year will be packaged in a collectable poster. Still available for just $1.00 at the Fan Zone table, be sure to get your player poster, and up-to-date information for that night’s game, prior to puck drop.
