CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The Corpus Christi IceRays began their last series of the season on Thursday night.
It was also fan appreciation night at the American Bank Center. The IceRays faced the Odessa Jackalopes and lost, 7-6, in overtime.
The IceRays said the game was an opportunity to celebrate their fans. They announced all tickets cost $12, including seats right next to the glass. That gave fans a chance to see one of the team's six goals goals up close.
IceRays Head Coach Sylvain Cloutier said he was disappointed with the team's results this season but looks forward to building around a young core next year. He explained that fans give the team a boost at home.
"Our fans have been great all season," Cloutier said. "They supported us through the ups and downs and we're very thankful they come to our games and come support us."
Fans filled the seats on Thursday night in one of the last opportunities to see the IceRays this season. Defenseman Griffin Zaske joined the team last November and said he noticed the dedication of fans.
"Win or lose, we always know that they have our backs," Zaske said. "Every night, they're showing up. They're making noise, they're making it exciting for us and we just enjoy it and appreciate it so much."
Goaltender Lorenzo Rossi added that the team has support across Corpus Christi, and fans even travel to cheer for them on the road.
"It's pretty special the fans that we get here. I mean, definitely, I would say the best in the league, you know," Rossi said. "Our building's great, everyone comes out, makes some noise, like, it's good for us as players to have that for scenery. Motivates us on the ice."
Both players said their goal is to eventually move on to play hockey in college.
Cloutier said six or seven players could move on to college next year. He added that 14 players are returning and looks forward to what they can accomplish next season.