Phantoms ready for home opener
November 2, 2006 - North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Mahoning Valley Phantoms News Release
BOARDMAN, Ohio - The Mahoning Valley Phantoms begin their first home stand of 2006-2007 season this weekend (Nov. 3 and 4) when they host the Traverse City North Stars at the Ice Zone in Boardman on Friday and Saturday. The opening face-off both nights is scheduled for 7 p.m.
The Phantoms will also launch two new promotions at all home games. Fans will have a chance to win a Phantoms jersey, courtesy of Bowers Insurance and Boardman Financial, as well as tickets to an upcoming Cleveland Cavaliers game.
"Much like the Phantoms, we want to give fans plenty of opportunities to win at our games as well," Coach Bob Mainhardt said.
Cheerleaders from area high schools will participate throughout the season to help fans cheer on the Phantoms. This weekend, the Campbell Memorial High School cheerleading squad will appear at both games.
"We sold out opening weekend last season and it really carried the team," Mainhardt said. "We would love nothing more than for our valley to come out and pack the Ice Zone this weekend."
During both intermissions, fans can participate in on-ice events. The popular Chuck-a-Puck contest returns and a new competition will make its debut.
Two fans will be selected to race Ford Mustang Power Wheels around the ice. The race is sponsored by Donnell Ford. Prizes will be awarded to the winners of both contests.
Friday marks the second year that the Phantoms will host Traverse City to start their home schedule.
"For as long as we've been on the road, we are in a pretty good position in the standings," Mainhardt said. "We now have an opportunity to move up, especially with our fans to back us up. Their support will be important for us to be successful at home."
Fans can take advantage of two promotional giveaways over the weekend. Friday's game will be Magnetic Schedule Night. All fans will receive a 2006-2007 Phantoms magnetic season schedule, sponsored by Smith Barney. Saturday is Phantoms Cup Night. All fans attending will receive a Phantoms cup, courtesy of the Youngstown Sports Grille.
"We can't wait to finally play in front of our fans," Captain Chris Fairbanks said. "I enjoyed the atmosphere last year as a rookie and I'm looking forward to it again this weekend."
Right wing and returning Phantom Matt Quigley is currently tied for second in the North American Hockey League with 11 goals. He, like Fairbanks, is ready for this weekend. "I'm very excited. We fed off our fan support so much last season, it was great. It's like having an extra player on the ice for us," Quigley said.
Tickets are $9 for club seating, $8 for general admission and $6 for students and children. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit the Ice Zone box office, located at 360 McClurg Rd., or call (330) 965-7500.
North American Hockey League Stories from November 2, 2006
- Alpena hosts U-17 Friday - Alpena IceDiggers
- Phantoms ready for home opener - Mahoning Valley Phantoms
- Romasco named Player of the Week - Bismarck Bobcats
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