By: Isabelle Franklin
Fans from Hershey, Norfolk and Washington, D.C., came out Thursday night to support the Hershey Bears in their 2-1 win over the Norfolk Admirals in the Washington AHL Showcase. The Verizon Center was full of Bears and Caps fans alike, excited to be back and watch some hockey. An early first period goal from Norfolk Admirals winger Brandon McMillan just 10 seconds into the game did not stop the Bears. The Bears answered back in the first period with a goal by Evan Barlow from Zach Hamill. Late in the third period the Bears put the game away for good with a goal from Ryan Potulny, set up by Steve Oleksy with 4:26 left in the game.
During the game we had the opportunity to talk with some Bears and Scarlet Caps fans. Donna from Hershey, Pa., has been a season-ticket holder of the Bears for 25 years. She and her husband have made the trip down to the Verizon Center a couple times throughout the years. When asked why she came to the AHL Showcase she simply stated, “I just love hockey.”
Another fan Michelle recalled a game between the Caps and the Chicago Blackhawks two years ago. That game was a first date and now the couple has celebrated their two year anniversary. Michelle credits that first date as the driving force for her love for hockey. As a Caps fan at the Verizon Center, she said she “missed the excitement” of games.
Donna, Michelle and lady fans alike came out in full force at the Verizon Center Thursday. The atmosphere was incredibly lively as the fans cheered the Bears onto their 10th win this season while “Rocking the Red” and (Hershey) brown. It was a night to remember.