This morning's T-U reports that Albany will again continue with its tradition
of hosting the NC$$ East Regionals in even years.  On Tuesday it was announced
that the Knick err Pepsi Arena will host the 2,000 East Regional on March 25
and 26, with two games each day, assuming the format doesn't change.
 
The less than stellar attendance at this year's event, 6,727 for the Saturday
edition and 7,096 for Sunday, has apparently prompted some concern.  Pepsi
Arena GM Bob Belber has indicated he will try to boost attendance the next
time around.  The last time the Pepsi hosted the Regionals a regional record
12,407 attended on March 23, 1996.
 
"What it does tell you is you have to work harder to bring in more bodies to
fill seats," Belber said.  "We do plan to use some creative marketing and new
promotions."
 
Of particular interest to the Hockey-l fraternity is a plan which would allow
people to buy the same seat location for the 2,000 East Regional and the
2,001 Frozen Four, (which was identified by the T-U, in what could become a
landmark trademark infringement case, as "the Final Four".)  "It gives people
an opportunity to secure great seats for both events," Belber said.
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Brian Morris                 RPI Engineers--Another Rebuilding Year?
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