FISHERS, Ind. - The moment Indy Fuel fans have been waiting for has finally arrived.
The ice officially heated up in Fishers on Friday as the puck dropped for the Fuel's very first game at the team's brand-new home in Hamilton County. The Fishers Event Center opened its doors for the first time in November, but Friday night marked the Fuel's first home game of the season and first game at the new venue.
Thousands of people poured out to opening night filled with excitement and pure thrill. The team played in front of sold-out crowds.
"Driving in, I was so excited to see the cool LED signs," described Fuel fan Lilli Maxwell. "Being at the state fairgrounds, it was really cool walking in and feeling all the buzz and excitement. But walking in here is just a completely new experience. It’s so cool."
Fuel fans young and old filled the new arena quickly and eagerly. Many said they were excited to see what it was all about.
"It’s almost like Christmas," said Indy Fuel fan Carrie O'Banion. "We’ve been anticipating this since last year. It’s all shiny and new. Just a lot to see. It looks very fun."
"We came and saw the venue a couple weeks ago for opening night," said Fuel fan Alaina Jacobs. "It’s just very spacious and it seems like there’s not a bad seat in the house. So we’re excited."
After several away games, fans said they are also just thrilled to have hockey finally back home in the Hoosier state.
"I like the excitement, the adrenaline rush, definitely a couple of fights now and then," Maxwell said.
And there was no shortage of that Friday night. At least two fights broke out within the first period alone.
Fuel fans also said they love how the team has a "small-town feel" to it. They say the fanbase has become a little community.
"We see a lot of familiar faces, fuel fans from last year," O'Banion said.
Season ticket holders and regulars also said there are a lot of new faces as well. Many of those are from just down the road.
"We’re from Fishers," said new season ticket member Todd Crowder. "With it being right in our backyard, we wanted to support it and support the Fuel. So we’re coming out to see what it’s all about."
With every chant, cheer and scream, there is plenty of excitement about the fuel season ahead and what the team's new home has to offer in the future.
"With all the concerts, wrestling events and all the things they already had, I think it’ll be great for the community and we’re super excited to come out to see all the things they bring here," Crowder said.
The Fuel return for "Military Appreciation Night" on Saturday. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the puck drops at 7 p.m.