Story Created: Apr 18, 2014 at 5:38 PM EDT <\/p>\n
Story Updated: Apr 18, 2014 at 7:04 PM EDT <\/p>\n
UTICA, N.Y. (WKTV) -- A pro hockey dream can take a player to many teams and many cities. Now finishing up their first season, the Comets are leaving with a lasting impression. The Aud is the loudest arena and the fans are the most passionate. <\/p>\n
This inaugural season was two decades in the making. <\/p>\n
\"We've been waiting 20 years,\" said an excited season ticket holder at the Comets Fan Fest back in October. <\/p>\n
The comeback of AHL hockey in Utica has made friday nights fun again. <\/p>\n
\"It's entertainment, it's quality of life, it's something to do in the middle of winter,\" said Steve Sperbeck, a Comets fan. <\/p>\n
Local hotels, restaurants and bars have benefited from the surge in downtown activity thanks to the games. <\/p>\n
\"On game days we have more business and we're thrilled,\" said Joanne Gerace, owner of Tiny's Restaurant. <\/p>\n
The Comets have made an impact that stretches far beyond the ice. The players helped clean the streets, inspired little kids, and served meals at the Rescue Mission. Now at the end of the season, players can look back and say the fans have had just as big of an impact on them. <\/p>\n
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As Comets close out season, fans leave lasting impression<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Story Created: Apr 18, 2014 at 5:38 PM EDT Story Updated: Apr 18, 2014 at 7:04 PM EDT UTICA, N.Y. (WKTV) -- A pro hockey dream can take a player to many teams and many cities Continue reading