Cougar Fans Galore

By 250 News

Young fan poses for a picture with Cougars Goalie, Real Cyr   (Opinion250 photo)

Prince George, B.C.-  Poor weather and a poor performance by the team this past weekend didn’t stop city residents from turning out in droves to the Prince George Cougars’ 2nd Annual Open House...

Cougars Business Manager, Brandi Brodsky admits, "We were a little concerned coming into today -- obviously, it wasn’t our most stellar performance the other night and the weather tonight, with the snow and everything, I was kind of concerned that that might have an impact on the turn-out, but I’m thrilled."

"There’s lots of people here and I’m happy for the players."

The general public was able to tour the usually private team dressing room, and meet the players in person -- have a chat, pose for a picture or have a jersey signed.

Brodsky says the Cougars launched a new program this year called "All Access" that’s aimed at putting the players face-to-face with their fans. 

"It gives our fans a chance to meet the players, get to know them a little bit --  it’s fun for the fans, it’s also fun for our players."

The Cougars’ team bus was available for viewing and fans could make their way to the broadcast booth upstairs to see where the games are called.

In addition the executive offices were open.  During Opinion250’s interview with Brodsky, one fan popped his head to say, "You’re doing a great job, just keep it up.  We have ups and downs, but everything’s cyclical.  The boys are playing hard and that’s the main thing."

The Business Manager says that’s the type of feedback she’s been receiving throughout the open house.  

"I cannot believe the patience and understanding and I think it’s people’s understanding of hockey -- they understand that we really went young with the purpose of re-building and the feedback has just been tremendous," says Brodsky  "We’re so grateful for the understanding and we’re grateful for the support that we’re still getting from people.  We need it and the players need it.."

Three little fans who were grateful for the opportunity to meet their idols were (left to right) Rylen, Tysen, and Zach Swanson.

All three really enjoyed touring the Cougars’ bus, Rylen (age 3) was thoroughly enjoying the popcorn and liked seeing the zamboni. 

His older brother, eight-year-old Zach, was a repeat customer getting his jersey signed last year, and again this year.  He was most looking forward to heading upstairs to see the broadcast booth.

During the event, the Save-On Foods Tier I Bantams took to the ice for a scrimmage.

Email | Print | Facebook | Twitter | Digg | Del.icio.us