GIRL POWER PLAY

It’s been more than 34 years since Title IX became law, requiring equal representation in sports for women. Congress did its part in passing the law. Schools have largely done their part to add women’s sports teams and athletic scholarships. Now, it is time for fans to show up.

Men’s ice hockey games at the University of Maine routinely sell out. High school games draw a decent crowd. But, when it comes to women’s hockey, a sea of empty blue seats greets the players in the Alfond Arena. That is too bad. This isn’t a Maine problem. Women’s college hockey games tend to draw only a few hundreds fans elsewhere in the country, too.

First, for those who don’t know, yes, there is a UMaine women’s hockey team. There has been since 1997. Once you know the team exists, which is difficult given the lack of promotion and coverage of their games, there are some misconceptions to overcome. The players are not huge and unshaven. In fact, the tall blonde is the enforcer.

They don’t play a prissy game. Even though the rules technically don’t allow checking, there is plenty of aggressive play. For those looking to teach children that some behavior is not acceptable, a stint in the penalty box follows most rule violations, including hitting.

There are lots of good reasons to check out a women’s game on the Orono campus. If watching a competitive game isn’t enough, the admission is free. Because the crowds are sparse, you can pretty much sit where you want. It’s also a great venue for kids. The game is a bit slower, which makes it easier for novice fans to get a grasp of the basics. If the game doesn’t hold their attention, kids can wander, within reason, among the empty seats.

The players are approachable and personable. They appreciate the high-fives from young fans as the team heads on to the ice. After the game, they’re willing to sign autographs and chat with peewee players. They’ll thank fans, young and old, for coming to the game and ask them to catch the next one.

You have a few more chances to catch a home game before the season ends. The team, which has a record of 13 wins, six losses and six ties, plays the University of Vermont at noon at the Alfond Arena this Saturday and Sunday. Two weeks later, they play against Boston College at noon on Saturday and Sunday.