Hockey Night in OC
Two first period goals by the Chicago Blackhawks and one more in the second period was enough to hold off the Ducks tonight at the Honda Center in Anaheim. First time I was back in the arena to watch an entire game since they were known as the Mighty Ducks.
Seats were in section 227. I still cannot watch a hockey game as a true fan. I always find myself evaluating the game presentation. From the tickets, to the parking lot, greeters, the food, events held in between period to entertain fans — you name it. Not much has changed since 2005. Same game presentation, music still upbeat and rock and roll. Men and women dressed for a show. Very friendly crowd.
Lots of new food vendors in the Honda Center since I used to call the building home. Oggies Pizza, Wiernerschnitzel, Rubios Fish Tacos had good concession stand branding.
Their front office management was not very visible. A few of the party suites were empty and for a sold out crowd there were pockets of empty seats in the upper levels. Overall though a good fan experience.
The hockey arena, which seats 17,174, does not cater for fans that like cheap tickets ~ though I must say the $55 per ticket for the lower bowl was not expensive by sport standards.
The NHL has more limited seating per event than NFL or MLB games so marketers in this sport will always have the challenge of selling more expensive seats than the other sports.
A brief background on both teams
Chicago Blackhawks
One of the original six, as I was reminded by a Boston Bruins fan sitting in my row from Boston tonight. Chicago was my team growing up. Stan Mikita, Esposito, Hull — I am dating myself but used to always listen to the games on a small radio near my bed. On November 17, 1926, the Chicago Blackhawks made their debut, defeating the Toronto St. Pat’s 4-1.
Anaheim Ducks
Captured first Stanley Cup title in team’s history during the 2006-07 campaign. Made it to the finals for the first time in 2002-03 under then head coach Mike Babcock. Team debuted at the Arrowhead Pond October 8, 1993 owned by The Walt Disney Company. Disneyland remains just down the street, but so much has changed since that first game.
