Faceoff Factor

Why You Should Watch ECHL Hockey

Kim Conner | Minor Leagues (ECHL, AHL, etc)

Jul 23, 06:31 AM | Hype this story!

With the severe lack of news in the hockey world lately, I’ve compiled a list of reasons to watch ECHL hockey. Or, at least, a list of reasons why I like to watch ECHL hockey.

This is not your Stanley Cup caliber team

The ECHL boasts rugged players. These guys are warriors, and while there are a few finesse players, don’t expect to see Sidney Crosby-like goals. They muck and grind for the full 60 minutes they play, and then go out and do it all again the next day. There are no multi-million dollar deals. There are no clothing lines or sponsorships. These guys play because they love the game. Not to imply that NHL players don’t love the game, we all know they do, but these guys play hockey because they have to. There’s nothing else they want to do, and it shows. Every bump, every bruise, every cut, is a badge of honor for them.

Ticket Prices

It’s a cheap way to take in a game. An adult ticket to a Johnstown Chiefs game is $17.50. You choose your section at the ticket window, all except for four reserved seating sections, for season ticket holders. Wheeling Nailers tickets range from $13.00 to $20.00, depending on your seats. It’s an inexpensive way to get a hockey fix, and most places have group rates available.

The Fights

While hockey fights are exciting, ECHL fights are downright dirty. Don’t expect any Laraque-esque gentlemanly invitations here. No, these guys, quite simply, beat the living hell out of each other. And they enjoy it. Sometimes there’s a reason behind it, sometimes it’s completely unprovoked. Real professionals, these guys are not.

• Ryan Garlock does not like to be crosschecked

• Jason Spence loses every fight he gets into, but you have to admire his determination.

• Boogaard started it

Mike Sgroi

For the uninformed fan, Mike Sgroi is a member of the Johnstown Chiefs. This guy is pure fun to watch. At 6’5 and 230 pounds, Sgroi is a trained UFC fighter and knows more martial arts than I do bad jokes. And I know a lot of bad jokes. Sgroi was suspended for a total of 12 games in the latter part of last season alone, after being acquired by the Chiefs. Two games for getting three game misconducts at one time, and ten for continuing a fight that was deemed over, and abuse of an official. He’s an energy guy, stands up for his teammates, fights dirty, and actually has some skill. The first night back from his ten-game suspension, a game I was happy to have been present for, he had a hat trick. He spent time in the AHL, playing for the Baby Pens during the 05-06 season, and… yep, getting some suspensions, before heading back to the ECHL. He’s an ECHL player, through and through, and one of the reasons I enjoy Chiefs’ hockey as much as I do.

• Real men do not wear pink

• A nearly 10 minute long ode to Sgroi. The first five minutes are professional fighting, but the rest is all hockey fights. The music leaves something to be desired, but it gets the point across. And while you’re on YouTube, check out the Sgroi Gone Mad video. It’s not complete, but he jumps into the penalty box to rail on another player. Epic.

There’s nothing like going to a game, sitting in the front row, and watching someone’s face get smashed into the glass. Every fan of hockey should see an ECHL game in their lifetime, if only for the experience. And should your team lose, it’s okay. Chances are, you’ll have had such a good time screaming at the players and singing along with the terrible music, it won’t matter. So go, bring all your friends, relax with a beer or nachos, and enjoy the game.