10 Things You Must Know Before Attending Your First Hockey Game

By Amanda Sklarek

First Hockey Game Preparedness Checklist

Boston Bruins
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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

Henrik Lundqvist
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10. Bring a Camera

New York Rangers
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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

Burgatory
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9. Go Hungry

Consol Energy Center
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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

Dallas Stars
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8. Plan to Stay to See The Three Stars of The Game

Dallas Stars
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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

Columbus Blue Jackets
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7. Plan on Arriving Early

Honda Center
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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

Chicago Blackhawks
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6. Bring Money — Lots of It

Chicago Blackhawks team store
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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

Philadelphia Flyers hat trick
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5. If You Wear a Hat, Make Sure You Throw It On The Ice if a Hat Trick Ensues

Philadelphia Flyers
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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

Vancouver Canucks
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4. Be Sure to Visit The Team Store

Vancouver Canucks 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

Philadelphia Flyers
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3. Get Decked Out

Philadelphia Flyers fans
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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

Toronto Maple Leafs
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2. Go Easy on The Booze

Toronto Maple Leafs fans
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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

Edmonton Oilers
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1. Stay For Each Period

Los Angeles Kings
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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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