The Blues tonight open their 50th season with a game against the Blackhawks, and these are "opportune times ... to explore new territories" for the team and "grow the fan base," according to Dan O'Neill of the ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH. The Blues have "topped the 100-point plateau in each of the last four full seasons." The Blues "ranked 13th among the 30 NHL teams in average home attendance last season, at 18,450." But there is "room to grow," as the club "ranked 21st in home capacity percentage, at 96.3." Blues President & CEO of Business Operations Chris Zimmerman said, “We’re in an interesting time. There’s no NFL football. We’re all disappointed the Cardinals didn’t get a chance to play in the postseason. Obviously, it puts a spotlight on hockey a bit earlier and, coupled with all these other initiatives, it’s a unique opportunity for us to keep getting more kids involved." Among the Blues’ initiatives is the “Hockey STL 2020” campaign announced last November. Its goal is to "develop 5,000 new players and grow the game" by 70% in the region by '20. The team has committed $2M "to that end over the next five years." The Blues have also "established a nonprofit, 'Legacy Ice Foundation,' which is positioned to promote and foster facility development." The initial project "involves a partnership with St. Louis County and a plan to build a four-sheet facility." The St. Louis Ice Center would have a "main rink with seating for 1,800 spectators and a team training center." Three additional ice sheets "are planned -- two for youth hockey and one suitable for the college game" (ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH, 10/12).
