“Sell out, Sell out,” the hit song by Reel Big Fish can be used in correlation with the Delaware Thunder this past season. The Thunder are part of the Federal Prospects Hockey League, and they pack the house on a nightly basis in a small town of Delaware called Harrington. The fans just flocked the arena, traveled with the team, sold tons of merchandise.
The Thunder had many unknowns when the team was founded earlier this year. First and foremost, how would the community embrace this team? Boy have the people of the “First State” come out in full force for their new found hockey team. Selling out the first game, a brand new team at that, means that people are engaged and excited for the future of the Thunder. Owner, President, and General Manager, Charles Pens believed this sold out arena would have made it tough on other opponents, as well.
Of course, like any new business or sports team for that matter. The Thunder underestimated this particular area when it came to the “Early” overall success, especially in regards to selling tickets. However, the people of the “First State” have spoken, and it appears they love ice hockey. It should come as no shock for the town of Harrington, as the Delaware Stars and Salisbury University are two hockey teams that call the Harrington Ice Rink home.
Unfortunately, like most hockey leagues throughout the world. The season was cut short due to the Coronavirus. For this reason, the free agent camp that was scheduled for August 15th and 16th has now been moved to September 19th and 20th in Aston, PA. Per the Delaware Thunder, prospects who have already enrolled will now be re-enrolled into the new dates. It’s better to be safe than sorry, as the health and safety of the players and staff are more important.
Let’s hope the Thunder come back sooner rather than later, and can restart where they left off. It would bring a sense of normalcy to a community that needs it.
