By Daniel Leopold
Staff Writer
Looking for a great way to feel the passion of Bonaventure sports before basketball season begins? After kicking off its season a few weeks ago, the men’s club hockey team has been hitting the rink rearing to go. The games are excellent opportunities to engross yourself in a fast-paced sport and cheer your fellow Bonnies on.
Following a long day of classes and work on Friday, I was in the mood to have a little fun. After a bit of thinking, I decided to venture over to Olean’s William O. Smith Recreational Center to watch the Bonaventure hockey team take on Binghamton.
After arriving at the arena, I walked up a short pathway and could already hear the raucous yell of the crowd. We all stepped into the building and paid the one dollar admission fee. After doing so, we were met with chilly air and the frenzied shouts of Bonaventure students.
Passionate students surrounded the rink and pounded on the glass as the players whizzed by chasing the puck. Bonaventure had a great first period, displaying a strong defensive effort in keeping the score locked at 0-0.
At the conclusion of the first period, I elected to visit the snack bar. The store had a list of common game-time food and beverages available, as well as hand warmers and winter wear. I ordered popcorn, and within minutes I was sitting back at my seat with a bag of buttered and salted kernels, ready for the game to resume.
As the second period began, the game got a bit out of the Bonnies’ hands. Some tough breaks and a few misplaced pucks allowed Binghamton to take the lead. However, this did not damper the shouts from the crowd one bit, as the fierce spirit of the fans carried out until the end of the game.
Despite a final push in the dying minutes of the third period, the Bonaventure club ended up losing, thanks to a stellar performance from Binghamton’s goalie. The team showed its passion at the end of the game when a scuffle broke out, causing players on both sides to get thrown out and suspended. The fight highlighted the Bonnies’ grittiness, as well as their resiliency.
The audience truly became a sixth man. They cheered vehemently and with vigor, no matter what was listed on the scoreboard. The investment they displayed shook the opposition up a bit, as they were surprised by the volume of the crowd throughout the game.
Even though the team’s efforts did not earn a win, I, along with about 200 other Bonaventure students, had a great time cheering them on. As low-scoring as hockey is, the pace of the game is lightning quick, and one mistake can lead to a defeat. The opportunity to get up and scream or knock on the Plexiglas boards was exhilarating.
For a complete schedule of the men’s club hockey team, visit the club sports tab on sbu.edu. Games last about three hours, cost one dollar and are hosted at the William O. Smith Recreational Center in Olean. Make sure to bring your Bona pride!
