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Date: | Tue, 29 Mar 2005 11:57:46 -0600 |
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It seems to me that Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, MI, site of the last two
Midwest Regionals, serves as an example of the neutral site that is being
advocated by some. The host team, Western Michigan, did not qualify for the
tournament in either year. All teams other than CC were within plausible
driving distance. Van Andel is an excellent hockey arena, with capacity of
12,000+.
2004:
Minnesota (584 miles)
Minnesota-Duluth (729 miles)
Michigan State (71 miles)
Notre Dame (119 miles)
Semifinal attendance: 5325
Final attendance: 3206
2005:
Colorado College (1233 miles)
Michigan (131 miles)
Wisconsin (324 miles)
Mercyhurst (444 miles)
Semifinal attendance: 6312
Final attendance: 6571
Even with the participation of Michigan and Michigan State, attendance was
disappointing. Is playing tournament games in half-empty arenas good for
college hockey?
-- Erik
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