10 Things to Know for the Home Opener
by Mark Caswell, Jr.
Oct 24, 2016The Utica Comets announced 10 things fans need to know for Wednesday’s home opener against the Binghamton Senators. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. for season ticket holders, and 6 p.m. for the general public.
1 – Arrive Early for the Show: This season features a revamped game production show beginning when doors open. Fans arriving early will be able to enjoy the new show from the minute they enter the arena, leading up to the all-new pre-game videos and player introductions.
2 – New Faces: The 2016-17 Comets roster features a healthy mix of returning players and new guys. Coveted Canucks prospects Troy Stecher and Thatcher Demko are embarking on their first season as professionals, and will be two guys looking to translate their college success to the pro ranks. A few new veterans have joined the team as well. Jasyon Megna (New York Rangers), Derek Hulak (Dallas Stars), Michael Chaput (Columbus Blue Jackets), and Borna Rendulic (Colorado Avalanche) will help infuse a veteran presence into the Comets line-up.
3 – Oriskany Street Grill: New this year is a re-made concession stand located across from the Team Store. Featuring the “Bomber” Cheesesteak, the Oriskany Street Grill’s menu is filled with made-to-order options including meatball subs, cheese stuffed pretzels, foot long hot dogs and sandwich options. The new stand also offers healthier options that include chicken caesar salads, chicken caesar wraps, and turkey club wraps.
4 – New Fan Zone: To make room for portable concession stands, the Fan Zone has been relocated next to the War Memorial display at the Labatt Blue entrance. Chuck-a-pucks can now be purchased in two locations, behind sections 214 and 205.
5 – New Security Measures: Earlier this month the Utica Memorial Auditorium announced that hand-held metal detector wands will be used at all main entrances to the arena. Fans are strongly encouraged to arrive 15-20 minutes earlier than they usually would, and even earlier if they typically arrive close to puck drop. These new security measures are consistent with those in effect at other sporting venues, including the NBA, MLB and NFL.
6 – Green Sweater Alert: The Comets will hit the Utica Memorial Auditorium ice in style to start the season. The green alternate sweater that made its debut last season, will be worn at the home opener.
7 - #WePlayForU: This year’s slogan is a nod to the best fan base in the American Hockey League. From the players and coaches to the front office and the fans; the Comets are here because of you – the fan. As a franchise, we recognize the significant impact our fans make game-in and game-out and honor that impressive showing of fandom by dedicating our play to you.
8 –Ultra Ice Lounge: The brand new Ultra Ice Lounge gives fans an up-close and intimate gameday experience by giving fans the opportunity to experience the game at ice level. The Ultra Ice Lounge package includes 10 tickets, a mini-fridge stocked with 20 beers, high top tables right on the glass, and a personal attendant for ordering additional food and drinks so you don’t miss a second of action. The Ultra Ice Lounge is available for $400 per game and can be booked by calling the Comets Office at 790-9070.
9 – Parking: The Utica Memorial Auditorium parking lot is now located behind The AUD, off Whitesboro St. Parking is $5 for all Comets games. Fans are asked to NOT park in Labor Ready’s parking lot, as cars have been towed from that lot per the owner's request.
10 – Posters: The game notes this year will be packaged in a collectable poster. Still available for just $1 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.