Had the chance to attend Friday night’s “Meet and Greet” with the Rapid City Rush at the Sports Rock. The event was very well-attended and enthusiasm for the team, among those in attendance, was very high.

I have to be honest … I came away from the event even more excited about professional hockey’s debut in Rapid City. Since I’ve been in town I’ve had the opportunity to talk to several sports fans about the Rush. It seems most have had a wait-and-see attitude about the team, citing the issues with the Rapid City Flying Aces. Some have said it’s just minor league hockey and while that’s true I can say from personal experience minor league hockey is pretty cool. While living in Eastern Oregon, I attended dozens of Idaho Steelheads games in Boise. The Steelheads are a member of the East Coast Hockey League and are affiliated with the Dallas Stars. The attendance for Steelheads games are almost always near capacity (5,000 people) and the atmosphere was always rowdy and lots of fun.

With progress continuing to be made on the new arena, a veteran head coach and seemingly solid local ownership in place, the Rush look like a professional franchise that are in Rapid City for the long haul.

Andrew

The Central Hockey League is coming to Rapid City and after their press conference on Thursday it seems likely to me that they’re going to be in fine hands.

I’m not much of a hockey fan, but after meeting head coach Joe Ferras and general manager Jason Rent, there’s little doubt in my mind that success is coming. Both men exude confidence and competence. Ferras seems like the type of guy that will have no problem inspiring a team and a fan base.

I’m amazed that I’m saying this, but I’m actually starting to look forward to seeing this whole thing develop.

Do you think hockey can succeed/thrive in the Hills?

-Padraic  

It’s not if, it’s when and who.

What do you think about R.C. getting another professional sports team? How will they fare? Is Rapid City ready for a hockey team? Is anyone interested in hockey?

For complete details on the Central Hockey League, go to Thursday’s Journal story at http://www.rapidcityjournal.com/articles/2007/04/12/news/top/news02.txt. The USHL is scheduled to visit on April 24, as one of those leagues (the CHL or the USHL) will probably get a team in Rapid City. Which one do you want?

 

–Sean Welsh