In the last two weeks, I've discussed ways for the fan's experience to be enhanced for hockey games. Two weeks ago, I've called for more noise at games; even suggesting something like a supporter's section or group, ideally endorsed by the team and filled with fans who know what their job is (to be loud & proud).  Last week, I suggested putting up isolated cameras on players for viewers at home who are interested in a certain player, for broadcasts to feature top players, and to get a better understanding of why said players make the decisions that they do.

Admittedly, both are pretty lofty ideas.  The first requires organization, cooperation, and a willingness to be loud when no one else really is amid a culture.  A lot of it is nice to say, but doing it is far more difficult than expected.  The second requires additional resources of sorts and a viewing audience showing some interest in the idea for it to get off the ground. Not at all an easy task as well.

This week, I want to suggest several smaller ideas for hockey television broadcasts to enhance and enrich the audience that views them.  They aren't necessarily large plans, but I believe they far more attainable than what I've suggest previously because they aren't big.

Note: Since I'm a Devils supporter, I'm going to be referring to their broadcasts on the MSG family of networks. Perhaps the network or sports affiliate of your favorite hockey team follows some of these ideas.

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Last Friday, I've tried to make the case that more noise from an organized group of fans at Devils games would enhance the fan's experience at games.  Given the comments, it was pretty well received and I hope that people who did read it will try to raise a little more hell in tonight's game against Our Hated Rivals. 

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If you're interested in a preview of tonight's game, please scroll down. This is about something I've been thinking about for the past few days.

Professional sports serve a dual purpose. It is a competition, and so most everyone involved is focused on whether the team succeeds or fails in their sport. It is also a business, and the goal there is to please the customer, the ticket-buyer that experiences the game whether for the first time or for their entire life.   Generally, the two go hand-in-hand.  Winning teams please the home crowds and gives them an easy reason to see them again.  Losing teams, like the New Jersey Devils have been to start the 2010-11 season, frustrate, disappoint, or anger crowds and the business suffers regardless of having a fairly new and sweet arena, easy access to mass transit, and other perks.

While the Devils - the hockey team - sort out their on-ice problems (and need to do so A.S.A.P.); the business side that's focused on the "game experience" can certainly try to improve it further in the meantime.    One idea to do just that is to have more noise at games.  Actual, from-the-heart-of-the-fans noise.  From a group of hardcore fans who are willing in their vocal support of the team whether they are winning or losing.  Fortunately, for the Devils, they don't even have to start from scratch to accomplish this task of boosting the atmosphere at the Rock.

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