Still Reigning Over the Empire

Sunday was one of those days that makes Southern California famous.

Bright and sunny in the middle of February, it was the perfect day to be outside with the family.

But instead of finding playing outside, more than 7,000 people sought shelter inside the cold.

It was Hockey Day in America, and fans in the Inland Empire celebrated at Citizens Business Bank Arena, as the Ontario Reign hosted the Colorado Eagles in a matinee, which ended in a 6-3 Eagles’ victory.

Yes, hockey is alive and well in the region.

A month after the NHL returned from its third labor stoppage since 1994, fans are still supporting the sport. There has been no fan backlash from the three-and-a-half month lockout, especially in Ontario. The Reign is second in the ECHL in average attendance, and leads the league in total fans through the gates.

Despite the loss, Sunday’s crowd remained active, from in-game activities including the banjo cam and dance cam, to paying attention to the action on the ice – including a first-period fight and a hat trick from the Reign’s Kyle Kraemer.

(Speaking of Kraemer, Sunday’s three goals brings his total to 21 on the season, meaning he’s on the hook for $105 for Loma Linda University Medical Center. He pledged to donate $5 for every goal this season.)

But while the news remains good off the ice for Ontario, on the ice, it’s another story.

After clinching a playoff spot Feb. 8, Ontario has lost its last four games – twice in overtime. The slide coincides with the team losing its top scorer – Colton Yellow Horn – and its two regular goalies – Chris Carrozzi and J.F. Berube -- to call ups to the American Hockey League.

But despite the losing streak, fans are still coming out cheering on the team. And don’t show signs of slowing down any time soon.