The Utah Hockey Club recently made history by winning its first-ever game at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City. The game was filled with exciting moments, including the introduction of the “Celly cam,” where fans were captured chugging beer and celebrating in unique ways. This feature added a new level of engagement and entertainment to the game, which was well-received by the crowd.
The team, which was formerly the Arizona Coyotes, had to create a new identity and game experience for its fans in a short period of time after the move to Utah. The Utah Hockey Club aimed to establish a strong connection with its fans by introducing elements like goal horns, goal songs, chants, and even considering incorporating local traditions to make the experience unique and memorable.
The Vice President of Entertainment Experience and Production for the Seattle Kraken, Lamont Buford, highlighted the challenges faced by the UHC in creating a successful in-game experience. Despite the limitations in terms of time and resources, the UHC managed to design an immersive and engaging environment for fans to enjoy.
The team’s President of Hockey Operations, Chris Armstrong, emphasized the importance of creating a fan-centric experience that resonates with the local community. By addressing concerns such as obstructed seats in the arena and involving fans in creating chants and traditions, the UHC aims to build a strong and loyal fan base in Utah.
The game also featured a unique goal horn and song that contributed to the energetic atmosphere in the arena. The team plans to gather feedback from fans to further enhance the in-game experience and potentially develop custom elements in the future.
Overall, the Utah Hockey Club’s inaugural game was a success, with fans and players alike expressing excitement and satisfaction with the new game-day experience. The team’s efforts to create a distinct and engaging environment for fans demonstrate a commitment to establishing a strong presence in the Utah sports community. As the team continues to evolve and grow, fans can look forward to more thrilling moments and unique traditions that celebrate the spirit of hockey in Utah.