Cheering for the Air Force Falcons at Bentley Arena
If you?re a hockey fan in Waltham, Massachusetts, the Air Force Falcons (AFA) are a team you wouldn?t want to miss. Competing at the NCAA Division I level, the AFA has a rich history that started in the late 20th century. Formed in 1968, the Falcons have been a competitive team in college hockey, showcasing their talent on the ice year after year.
Bentley Arena, home to the Falcons, opened in 2018 and has quickly become a favorite spot for fans. With a seating capacity of approximately 3,000, the arena offers an intimate yet energetic environment for watching hockey. The seating arrangements are designed for great views from almost every angle, allowing fans to feel the excitement of the game up close. Whether you?re sitting in the lower bowl or higher up, you?ll find that the atmosphere is electric during game nights.
The seasonality of events at Bentley Arena typically runs from October through March, aligning with the college hockey season. The Falcons host several home games during this period, which means plenty of opportunities for fans to come out and support the team. Rivalries are also a huge part of the experience, with teams like the Air Force Academy and the Army Black Knights creating thrilling matchups that are always highly anticipated.
As for attending a game, parking is usually available at the venue, but it can fill up quickly on game days. Arriving early is a good tip to secure a spot. Ticket prices can vary, but generally, you can find affordable options, especially if you?re looking for seats further back. For the best experience, consider sitting closer to the action?these seats tend to be more vibrant during plays and give you a better view of the skill on display.
FAQs about the Air Force Falcons and Bentley Arena
- What is the history of the Air Force Falcons? The AFA hockey team was established in 1968 and has grown into a competitive force in NCAA Division I hockey.
- When did the Falcons start playing at Bentley Arena? The Falcons began playing at Bentley Arena when it opened in 2018.
- What are the seating arrangements like at Bentley Arena? The arena has a seating capacity of around 3,000, with options that provide great views of the ice from both lower and upper levels.
- What is the best time to attend a game? The college hockey season runs from October to March, making it the best time to catch AFA games.
- Who are the main rivals of the Air Force Falcons? The Falcons have fierce rivalries, particularly with the Army Black Knights and other service academies.
- Is parking available at Bentley Arena? Yes, there are parking areas nearby, but arriving early is recommended due to high demand on game days.
- How much do tickets typically cost? Ticket prices vary, but they are generally affordable, with better views available at a slightly higher price.
- What tips do you have for driving to Bentley Arena? Plan your route in advance, and consider traffic conditions. Arriving early can help you avoid last-minute rushes.
- How can I choose the best seat for a hockey game? For the best experience, aim for seats in the lower levels or near the center ice for optimal viewing of the action.
Bentley Falcons Induct Six New Members into Athletics Hall of Fame
Last week, Bentley University celebrated the induction of six new members into its Athletics Hall of Fame during a ceremony held at the Westin Waltham on September 19. The honorees include Mark Argust (men's basketball, '01), Stan DeMartinis (football, baseball, '96), Melissa Nash Ramirez (track and cross country, '09), Mary Kay Samko (swimming & diving coach), Holt Sihvonen (track and field, '18), and Ryan Soderquist (hockey, '00).
Mary Kay Samko, who has led the swimming and diving program since 1996, announced her retirement after a remarkable 29-year career, achieving a record of 506-150 and numerous conference titles. Mark Argust, a standout basketball player, ranks among Bentley's top scorers with a career total of 1,464 points. Stan DeMartinis excelled in both baseball and football, boasting impressive statistics in slugging and home runs. Melissa Nash Ramirez was a four-time Northeast-10 champion in track and cross country, while Holt Sihvonen made his mark as a javelin specialist, earning All-America honors. Finally, Ryan Soderquist, Bentley's all-time leading hockey scorer, transitioned to head coach, winning 277 games and multiple Coach of the Year titles. This induction brings the total number of Bentley Hall of Famers to 179.
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