Top 5: Things the NHL can Learn from College Hockey

While many sports fans tuned into the Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight college basketball games this weekend, I tuned my attention to the quarter finals of the NCAA Hockey Frozen Four tournament. For those who don’t know what that is, it’s college hockey’s championship tournament. I’ve been a casual college hockey fan since 2007 when I witnessed the Frozen Four finals at Scottrade Center. Michigan State took home their first championship against Boston College, and I instantly wanted to apply to North Dakota and become a part of their ice skating hockey cheerleading squad. In more recent years, I’ve seen the semifinal rounds in St. Louis, and followed Western Michigan a bit, but I can’t help but want to bring some of that college spirit into the NHL.

1. No Touch Icing: This is a pretty standard topic of discussion at NHLPA meets, but removing the touch rule on icings is flat out safer. After seeing what concussions can do to a player, it’d be a huge improvement.

2. Bring a Band: I cannot explain how awesome it is to hear a college band inside of a hockey rink. The first time you do, Charles Glenn will never be able to fulfill your musical rink needs again. Whether its the fight song after a goal or “Hey Baby” during a timeout, it adds an entire new level to the game.

3. Keep It Quiet: This goes against every marketing bone in me, but there’s something sacred about NCAA hockey. There are only 58 division one teams, with 16 making the tournament. Sure, you’ll catch an occasional game on CBS Sports or NBC Sports Network on a Friday night, but it hasn’t reached the madness of it’s basketball counterpart. It’s still exciting without everyone and there brother being involved.

4. Alternatively, Get With ESPN: Look, I like what NBS Sports Network is doing for the league. Every single Caps/Pens match up on Sunday afternoon is well received, but the NHL can never sit at the popular table without an endorsement from the leader.

5. Put the Ice Girls on Ice: Seriously, maybe it’s because I was a cheerleader, but girls in crop tops shaking their arms is not team spirit. Get these girls some skates and a choreographed intermission and I’ll be impressed.

Top 5: Things I’m Most Excited for in February.

Although this is the month I cannot spell to save my life (seriously, I’m shocked my spell checker doesn’t pop up a box that says “Seriously, it’s not that hard.”), I’ve got some good things going this month that I must share.

1. DGB signs with Mizzou: OK – This just happened like 30 minutes ago, but it’s pretty awesome that my alma mater got the #1 recruit in the nation, Dorial Green-Beckham. That will be quite a way to start our first season in the SEC off!

2. Visiting Antique Archaeology in Nashville: Does anyone else watch American Pickers? These guys are hilarious, and they find the most interesting things throughout the country to sell at their stores in Iowa and Nashville. And lucky for me – I get to go to the Nashville store! I doubt we’ll come home with an Indian, but you can bet I’ll be proudly wearing my tee!

3. St. Louis Blues at Nashville Predators: This is the real reason we’re heading to Nashville this weekend. I’ve been to an away Cardinals game at Pittsburgh, but the rivalry wasn’t there. The Blues and Nashville have just one point separating them in the West. Plus, I’ve got a Backes jersey to wear (with cowboy boots – don’t judge) and a strange urge to hear “I like it, I love it.” But only once.

4. Super Bowl XVIII: If you’re thinking, “why does she care about the game?” You’re completely right – I don’t. But I do love the ads! The ones I’ve seen so far have been awesome, and I can’t wait for more.

5. Valentine’s Day! I know, I know. Completely cheesy, but I like it! Plus, I picked up a super cute dress from Express that I’m dying to wear.

So what are you looking forward to most in February? Any leap year babies? Hopefully it’s a great month for all!