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Annual Thunder Fan Fest Coming October 7

October 1, 2012 - ECHL (ECHL)
Stockton Thunder News Release


STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, a two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," is scheduled to host its annual Fan Fest on Sunday, October 7 at Stockton Arena from 4-6 p.m.

One of the prime opportunities to take advantage of photos and autographs, Fan Fest admission and parking will be free of charge to the general public, welcoming fans to interact with Thunder players, coaches and personalities throughout the day and sample a taste of the Thunder game day experience.

"As a growing tradition, Fan Fest is a terrific opportunity for fans to rub elbows with players for the first time and look forward to the cool months ahead that go hand in hand with an exciting night at a Thunder game," said Thunder president Dan Chapman. "The players are always looking forward to this day where they can let their hair down and enjoy a nice, informal atmosphere. We're proud to make this event one of our many treats for the community."

The Thunder has drawn over 1.5 million fans to home games since starting up at Stockton Arena in 2005-06.

Thunder players will open the event with a special skills competition, featuring events such as Fastest Skater and Hardest Shot that will feature a glass free environment on the side boards and offer fans a chance to experience the players at an enhanced up close and personal level. In addition, a special surprise demonstration involving Thunder head coach Matt Thomas and left winger Garet Hunt - both who will be mic'ed up during the event - will cap off the contest.

Once the Skills Competition is complete, several members of the Thunder will provide an insight into the life of a hockey player in a Q&A Session. Fans will be free to ask their favorite player or coach questions about hockey, routines, lifestyles and other aspects of being a professional hockey player/coach.

Any fan who can't wait for the Q&A Session can submit questions in advance, online through the official Thunder Facebook page (www.facebook.com/StocktonThunder) and Twitter feed (@StocktonThunder), using the hashtag #AskThunder.

The Fan Deck of Stockton Arena, located behind section 120, will offer a Thunder game worn jersey via silent auction (partial proceeds to benefit the Stockton Thunder Foundation) and a special fan photo booth with Thunder mascot Thor. Additional booth attractions invite kids to join Thor's Puck Patrol and offer details to fans on special Thunder community events, such as Thunder Goes Pink VII, Military Appreciation Weekend and more.

Fan Fest also invites fans in attendance to pick up their 2012-13 Season Ticket books and Mini-Plan ticket packages.

All fans are asked to enter Stockton Arena through the South Entrance, located just behind Banner Island Ballpark. Doors will open at 4:00 p.m.

Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 12 when the Thunder launches the 2012-13 season and the ECHL's 25th Anniversary campaign at home against the Ontario Reign starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena. The Thunder will host its lone preseason home game at Stockton Arena against the Bakersfield Condors on Saturday, Oct. 6 at 7:30 p.m., where general admission is $10 ($5 for current Season Ticket Holders).

The proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League, the Thunder led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the seventh consecutive season in 2011-12. Season Tickets, Group Tickets and Mini-Plans for 2012-13 are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit www.StocktonThunder.com.

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