Michigan State University Athletics
Spartans Meet Fans From Around the State
10/12/2014 12:00:00 AM | Men's Ice Hockey
EAST LANSING - A week before beginning its regular season, the Michigan State hockey team hit the road for a pair of open practices and Meet and Greet events on both sides of the state. The Spartans traveled to Southside Ice Arena in Byron Center, just outside Grand Rapids, on Friday afternoon, while on Saturday they went to Onyx Ice Arena in Rochester.
"It was great to be able to go out and give back to communities we don't normally get to," said junior captain Mike Ferrantino. "Practicing in front of fans and then getting to meet them was a great experience."
Friday's event drew Spartan fans from all over West Michigan. After watching the Spartans' practice, the crowd made its way to the ice where the players and coaches signed autographs and posed for photos.
Saturday's open practice at Onyx Ice Arena in Rochester drew another large crowd of Spartans. After putting his team through a 1 hour and 15 minute practice, coach Tom Anastos and the Spartans welcomed another group of fans to the ice for photos and autographs.
For freshman Josh Jacobs, who grew up just minutes from Onyx Ice Arena, it was an opportunity to revisit a familiar sheet of ice.
"It was a great experience," said Jacobs. "I grew up playing here and it brings back a lot of memories. It was just a good feeling to see all of my family and friends and all the other Spartans that came out to support us today."
The Spartans followed their Meet and Greet at Onyx Ice Arena with trip to the Fox Sports Detroit studios for a unique experience and the opportunity to take on roles in television production. The team was split into three groups with each player within the group taking on a production role. Director, producer, on-air talent and camera operator were just some of the roles the Spartans played in producing mock show segments.
"Our experience at Fox was fun and I think a lot harder than we all expected," said Ferrantino. "It was eye-opening to see how much goes into a TV production. The boys were able to serve in different roles and really embraced the experience."
The Spartans wrapped-up their busy weekend with a trip to Joe Louis Arena to see the Red Wings take on the Anaheim Ducks.
