First Hockey Game Preparedness Checklist
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Are you attending your first hockey game but are unsure of what to do or expect? Don't worry, I got you covered.
Here are 10 tips to prepare you for your first hockey game.
10. Bring a Camera
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10. Bring a Camera
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It seems like everyone has a camera phone these days, but you can achieve clearer, high-quality on-ice shots (or video) with a handheld or digital SLR camera. There will also be other moments besides the game that you will want to capture in time.
9. Go Hungry
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9. Go Hungry
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Every arena has a unique selection of food. Consol Energy Center (Pittsburgh Penguins) houses a mini Burgatory which offers burgers, chips and delectable shakes. Explore the arena and see what you can find to munch on.
8. Plan to Stay to See The Three Stars of The Game
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8. Plan to Stay to See The Three Stars of The Game
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At the end of every NHL game, the three best players of the night are recognized for their outstanding performance. The three players will come out, skate around and sometimes throw pucks, shirts or even sticks to fans in the crowd.
7. Plan on Arriving Early
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7. Plan on Arriving Early
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Most arenas allow you to stand at the glass and watch players warmup before the start of the game. Players will often interact with fans or throw pucks to them. The experience is definitely worth leaving your house ahead of schedule.
6. Bring Money — Lots of It
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6. Bring Money — Lots of It
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You will most likely want to visit the team store or grab a soda, so stuff your wallet. You never want to be in a situation where you do not have enough cash.
5. If You Wear a Hat, Make Sure You Throw It On The Ice if a Hat Trick Ensues
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5. If You Wear a Hat, Make Sure You Throw It On The Ice if a Hat Trick Ensues
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Actually, I encourage you to bring a hat anyways just in case this happens. Throwing hats on the ice during a hat trick has been a neat tradition for decades. A lot of teams donate the hats, so you will also be completing your good deed for the day by participating.
4. Be Sure to Visit The Team Store
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4. Be Sure to Visit The Team Store
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Stepping into your favorite team's store is like heaven. Buy yourself a jersey or license plate frame. Do not leave the store empty-handed.
3. Get Decked Out
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3. Get Decked Out
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Hockey games are more fun when you show off your pride. Don't worry, you won't be the only one looking silly dressed from head to toe in your favorite team's gear.
2. Go Easy on The Booze
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2. Go Easy on The Booze
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Enjoying a drink is fine, but don't consume to the point where you become belligerently drunk. No one likes a rude and obnoxious fan.
1. Stay For Each Period
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1. Stay For Each Period
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Hockey games are unpredictable and you never know what could happen. Make sure to use the bathroom and grab a bite to eat before the game or during intermission so you don't miss out on any of the action.
Amanda Sklarek is a Pittsburgh Penguins/NHL writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow her on Twitter @amandabukowski, “Like” her on Facebook or add her to your network on Google.
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