Walleye hit the ice on Saturday - 13abc.com Toledo (OH) News, Weather and Sports

Walleye hit the ice on Saturday

The seats at the Huntington Center may be empty now, but come Saturday, they'll be filled with thousands of fans ready for the first Walleye game of the season.

"It is an exciting day for us here in Toledo, especially with the fans, its going to be a great game," Captain of the Walleye, Kyle Rogers said.

Kim McBroom, the chief marketing officer, said, "we've had so much response to people looking forward to the game, so we couldn't be happier."

On Saturday, the puck drops just after 7 p.m. but McBroom says the fun starts much earlier.  Fans will be able to enjoy live music, food, an giveaways before the game, and after the buzzer, fans can head upstairs to meet the team.

Rogers says, "we play hockey, but our second job is to mingle with the fans.  We want to answer questions and get to know those who support us."

Another big draw this year is the new food.  Each season, they add new food choices to keep it fresh, and this year is no different.  Fans can indulge in a funnel sundae and other ice cream, or grab a Canadian burger and mac and cheese.

"Our fans are looking for more than the hot dog and popcorn," Scott Furnstein, the general manager of food and beverages said.

It's expected to be a sell out game, a trend many hope carries through all season.

There are still tickets available for Saturday's game.