Greetings everyone!
 
        Mike had wondered how the UNH fans felt about all this upcoming travel
this season.  I can't say I speak for everyone, but I think we'll be OK.  It
certainly won't be the same without Snively or even being able to play on
campus but a year on the road won't be so bad when we're in the new place.  I
think the major concern right now is getting into the dirt and making sure
the Wildcats have a home next fall.  A second year on the road is anything but
appealing.  If we get into that second year, fan interest takes a hit, recruit-
ing would likely suffer, etc, etc....
        I understand that UNH is planning on bussing students to the games in
Manchester.  UNH played some games in JFK a few years ago and the turnout was
pretty good.  I'm hoping that UNH can spark a real interest in Manchester and
make it a fun place to be.  This depends on the students and the other fans,
though.  This fan doesn't see a trip to Manchester being a real inconvenience.
Will the faithful follow?  I've already heard some rumblings about "having to
go all the way to Manchester..." and that's after being hockey-less all summer.
Once the cold and snow set in, does it become too far to go?  (Having made some
5+ hour trips in the snow last season, I'm still planning on being there!)  :)
        As for playing in Maine, that's a little different.  Given the Maine/
UNH rivalry it seems awkward to be in Portland.  Don't get me wrong--home games
are home games no matter where they are played. But  I'm curious as to what the
Maine population will think about all these UNH fans roaming the streets.  I
know how I feel when they come to UNH.  Do they feel the same way or is my
particluar dislike for Maine a special case?  (Pre-season jab, no flames please)
It will be different.
        I guess the bottom line is that I hope everyone shares my attitude--
I can do anything for a season.  If travelling to Manch-Vegas and Portland is
what we have to do, then we do it.  And most importantly, we have *fun* doing
it.  After all, isn't college hockey worth it?
 
See you at the Face-Off Feed Saturday!  45 days 'til Vermont.....
 
H
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