7:59 PM
The 4th Line
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| Express Goaltender Mike Nolan I wasn’t sure what to expect when I arrived at the Sears Center in Hoffman Estates for the inaugural Chicago Express game on October 22nd. I am relatively new to Chicago and regrettably never took advantage of the minor league hockey scene in Massachusetts. As soon as I walked in we were greeted by a friendly staff, saw a “trackless” train ride and signs for Traxtown, which is a special area for kids. The pregame festivities were great and the atmosphere was electric with over 5,000 people packed the lower bowl. |
The Express scored against the Kalamazoo Wings shortly into the first period and kept the crowd in the game with a few entertaining fights and great physical play. The Express are a skillful team and having already won their first road game you could tell they were pumped up to play at home for the first time.
As we all know, minor league sports love their gimmicks and the Express are no different. Everyone in attendance was given a train whistle and we all helped to set the Guinness World Record of having the most people blowing a train whistle at the same time. I had a great time at that game and it left me wanting to come back for more.
I’ve since been to two more games. When I heard they were running a Friday night home game deal of $1 beers and $1 hot dogs - I had to be there - and of course, it was awesome. Due to it being their inaugural season and first $1 beer and hot dog night, the lines were a little long. It wasn’t a problem for us but surprisingly enough as we left the arena, we were given ticket vouchers for a Wednesday night game as their apology for the lengthy lines.
When we arrived at the Sears Center on Wednesday night we went to the box office to turn in our vouchers and were able to pick what section we wanted to sit in. We chose center ice and were given front row tickets. Right off of the face off there was a fight and the team played energetically and with heart. Although they lost to the Toledo Walleye the game was just as entertaining as the last.
All in all, the Express play a competitive brand of hockey. They have a great organization and the Sears Center is a wonderful place to see a game. It’s a fun (and cheap!) night out especially if you’re bringing the whole family. To find out more about the Chicago Express visit their website at: http://www.chicagoexpresshockey.com
- Chris / @GgooglyBoogly
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