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| Time to get an education on the NHL. Photo Credit: Jerome Miron /USA Today Sports |
By: Omie D
I would almost bet your farm that the only Dallas Star they know is Mike Modano. Big shout out to Mike Modano, the greatest Dallas Star to date. As hockey season begins, as a journalist, show host and fan, I am making it my duty to change my friends hockey knowledge,change that percentage to about 44%, which I assume that will consist of mainly Independent rappers and expose the Dallas Stars to a new fan base.
But how do I change the perception of hockey in my deeply rooted football state, or even my small Texas town?? This will take all of the educator skills I can steal from my Mom to pull this one off. Let's Make a Plan!
Use the scientific theory to identify the problem and come up with a solution. Hooray Science!!
Problem: How to Teach unknowing Fans about Hockey & The Dallas Stars?
What do People that are not Fans like about Hockey?
A. Fights! That is a hard point to argue, this is entertainment. Hockey being almost the only team sport that allows this. Very rarely is there an ejection as it is part of the normal fabric of the game. Almost gives the fan a feeling of cheering on the defense of their Stars
B. Zamboni. What is a Zamboni. Its a giant truck that smooths the ice in between periods(or quarters for football fans). Who does not like to see someone drive a vehicle on a slippery surface, especially here in Dallas. We love our ice coverage, Brrr. Also it plays a part in intermission, sometimes decorated or the driver puts on a donut exhibition. For you country folks, he's muddin on ice!
C. Jerseys. Hockey being a cold weather sport allows the uniforms to be short or long sleeve. Ladies love the general large size of a Hockey jersey for its warmth and "comfyness". Not to mention, a hockey jersey is so sexy on a Woman. It's like a sexy sports Night Gown.
FOCUS Omie D!!
What do People that are not Fans dislike about Hockey??
A. Scoring. Americans seem to be the kind that feel, the more points I score the more butt I kicked. With an off sides call in hockey, it eliminates scoring versus basketball. Not to mention a constant goalie to hamper shots from falling in. Although off sides rules recently were modified, this still does not satisfy them.
Other than that, the general population expresses a lack of hockey at youth levels in Texas has hurt the sport here. That is changing, and hopefully soon more development into the urban areas of Dallas.
What Can Happen or Solutions
1. I think hockey teams should invest more into Little League programs, and champion petitions in school districts to allow hockey to become more prevalent.
2. Market more to the audience they are lacking. Find quick ways to educate young people with fun activities, which will force parents to take interest. Also market the video game franchises better. Maybe do a NBA Jam type hockey game, which can include other athletes from different sports as hockey players. I know Lebron will do it!
3. Continue the outside hockey games. Try some crazy exhibition games in places like college football stadiums. Invite the students out, multiple times a year Basketball and baseball both used the same methods early on.
Next Week, What is a Penalty and how does that box work?
Go Stars!!!
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