It may be fall, but football's not the only game in town. Hockey is a fast-paced, exciting sport, and it's played indoors so you feel much closer to the action.
If you're a hockey newbie, now's the time to check it out. Here's a look at two teams followed by residents of Springs at West Chester and Springs at Liberty Township.
Cincinnati Cyclones
In its relatively brief and somewhat rocky history, Cincinnati's hometown hockey team has enjoyed quite a bit of success.
- After a nine-season run in the now-defunct International Hockey League (IHL) that ended in 2000-2001, the Cyclones were reincarnated the following season when an investment group purchased the former Miami Matadors. The new Cyclones joined the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL).
- The Cyclones ceased operations after the 2003-2004 season. Three years later, the team was revived by the Nederlander Entertainment Group and resumed play in 2006-2007.
- Since resuming play the Cyclones have won two North Division titles, a Brabham Cup for the league's best regular season finish, and two Kelly Cup Championships.
- The ECHL season runs from October through April and all home games are played at U.S. Bank Arena.
- Tickets start as low as $10. With events such as Nickelodeon Night, Kids Eat Free and promotional giveaways, a Cyclones game makes a great family outing.
Columbus Blue Jackets
You'll be seeing stars when you head to our state's capital to watch the pros of the NHL.
- The Blue Jackets are one of the more recent entries in the NHL, beginning play in the 2000-2001 season. The team's name is a tribute to the significant contributions Ohio made to the Union Army during the Civil War.
- Head coach John Tortorella is beginning his third season with the Blue Jackets. He previously held the same position with the Tampa Bay Lightning, New York Rangers and Vancouver Canucks. Last season, with a December 18 win against the Canucks, Tortorella became the first American-born NHL coach to attain 500 victories.
- Blue Jacket home games are played in Nationwide Arena located in the Arena District, one of the most popular neighborhoods in Columbus. The District is well-known for its numerous sports, dining and entertainment options.
- Tickets start at $20. In addition to single game and season tickets, the Blue Jackets offer a create-your-own weekend plan. Benefits include reduced pricing, playoff ticket priority, ticket trade program and an exclusive meet-and-greet event with players and coaches.
What's your favorite fall activity? Tell us in the comments!
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