WRAL Sports Fan

WRALSportsFan

Stanley Cup Champ 'Canes Return to Ice

Dec 20, 2006

RALEIGH, N.C. — Summer break is officially over for the Carolina Hurricanes. Just three months ago, the 'Canes were hoisting the Stanley Cup in front of the home crowd. Now, with their first scrimmage of the season, the players are back to work.

The Hurricanes' intra-squad scrimmage at the RBC Center didn't disappoint Wednesday night. More than 2,000 fans took advantage of free parking and a free first look at the Stanley Cup champions.

"It might be the only time we get front-row seats, but we're going to be here for it this time," said fan Nancy Sweeney.

The start of a new season begins with momentum from the last -- on the ice and at the box office. Season ticket sales are up 60 percent from last year, and merchandise is being scooped up at record numbers. Sales for July and August were up 900 percent.

All around the RBC Center and across the Triangle, Caniac fever has been contagious. And now that the players are back on the ice, fans said that they want a repeat of the team's successful 2006 season.

"Many people say they have the best fans in the world, but I really do believe that we do here. And they proved it again tonight," said Hurricanes coach Peter Laviolette.

• Reporter: Erin Coleman
• Photographer: Greg Clark
• Web Editor: Dana Franks