Cougar fans gathered in front of the CN Centre Friday afternoon were having no trouble getting into the spirit for the season-opener against the Vancouver Giants.
The tailgate barbecue started two hours before game time, and fans were there early, hoping to stir some pregame excitement.
"We need to get loud again," said Tony Wedzinga, who has been following the team for 13 years.
"It was loud when I first got here and the arena was packed every game. It's quieter now, and I think it's time for the fans to start showing their support for the boys," he said.
He's a Cats' super fan, coming to the opener with his face painted, jersey on and ready to make some noise. Wedzinga said he expected the opener against the Giants to be a good, rough game.
Some people have complained he is too boisterous, but said he won't stop.
"These kids need the crowds to be loud, not quiet and sitting on their hands. The NHL teams always get loud fans and why should our boys expect anything else?"
While some fans have wavered over the years, Cheryl Stanker remembered when it was almost impossible to get Cougar tickets.
"It was absolutely amazing (when the team first came to Prince George)," said Stanker. "I remember trying to get tickets and all the phone lines went down. I ended up calling Ottawa to get tickets, but it was worth it."
She said she's excited for the new season to start, and she knows the players must be pumped to play their best. Stanker billeted players for four seasons and has been a Cougars fan since before they came to CN Centre.
"Win or lose, we're here. I don't just come for the hockey, but the social scene too. These people become my family. There are people I only see during Cougar season.
"It's just a great night out for the entire family."
