Fresh off a third Memorial Cup win in nine years, Windsor Spitfires fans are excited about the upcoming season.
Windsor has put together a younger roster this year with a number of key players moving on to play for NHL teams.
The Spits opened the 2017-18 campaign Thursday night at the WFCU Centre with a 3-1 win over the Saginaw Spirit.
Fans gathered before the game for a tailgate celebration.
Michael McCarthy says the team needs to keep the Memorial Cup momentum going.
"This team being such a great, but young team, these guys are going to have that high of that win and I think that's really going to propel them into a great, great playoff spot again and I think we might have a chance to actually enter into this year's Memorial Cup and I can't wait to see what they do."
Brian Sheff say it's going to be an entertaining year.
"I think it should be exciting. They're going to have some ups and downs, but overall, it should be an exciting year."
Fans at 2017-18 Windsor Spitfires season opener (Photo courtesy of Kristen Hazael)
Rick Rickeard says the Spits made some good additions in the off season and he's looking forward to the future.
"I think that they'll do well. I don't think they're going to be a Memorial Cup team this year, but I give them a couple years. I see a lot of good talent on the team. I think Rychel made some good moves."
A shot from the 2017-18 Windsor Spitfires season opener (Photo courtesy of Kristen Hazael)
The tailgate party included food, live music and plenty of entertainment for the entire family.
The Spitfires are back in action Friday night as they travel to London to take on the Knights.
Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30pm.
- with contributions from AM800 A-Team