BOSTON - Well over a thousand rousing Boston University fans were on hand to get a first glimpse at the 2005-06 Terrier men's ice hockey team on Saturday night (Oct. 1) at Jack Parker Rink. Agganis Arena, in conjuction with BU Friends of Hockey, hosted its first-ever Hockey Mania to welcome students and faculty to the new season of BU hockey.

Beyond the usual "Dance for an iPod" competition, students competed for T. Anthony's Pizzaria gift certificates, a night at the Hotel Commonwealth and free textbooks. In addition, everyone received a free t-shirt and consessions, and was invited to skate with the Terriers.

A highlight of the evening was Head Coach Jack Parker's address to the crowd, which included much praise of the fan support. Parker, along with the rest of his staff and all 27 of this year's men's ice hockey players were introduced and used their first official practice to show off their skills.

In individual competitions, freshman Brandon Yip earned "fastest shot" with a 94 mph blast into the net, while fellow rookie John McCarthy won "fastest skater" and senior John Laliberte earned the "best scorer" title after converting on 2-of-3 breakaways.

Following the skills competitions, the Terriers played a 4-on-4 scrimmage and then changed into warmups to skate with the fans while Miracle played on the jumbotron.

The Terriers will take to the ice on Friday (Oct. 7) for an exhibition game versus the University of Toronto at 7:00 p.m., before opening the regular season at Agganis Arena versus UMass Lowell on Saturday, Oct. 15.

To purchase tickets or for more information, click here or visit our Ticket Office at 925 Commonwealth Avenue, Monday-Friday from 10am-6pm, or call 617-353-GOBU (4628).