Amerks hold first game with fans in stands in almost 2 years

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — For the first time in almost two years, Rochester Americans fans were able to watch and cheer on their favorite team in person. Friday night’s home opener at the Blue Cross Arena against the Syracuse Crunch was one of the hottest tickets in town.

The last time fans were able to see the Amerks play live was back on March 11, 2020, but all that was forgotten as fans turned up by the thousands.

Just before the puck dropped, fans shared their excitement as they were welcomed back into the arena once again.

"We’re just absolutely thrilled to be here this evening," said John Marshall. He continued, "You know we remember going to the very last game before unfortunately, COVID shut the season down, and we’re just absolutely thrilled to be able to come out tonight and support the team."

Davis Briggs added, "I mean we’ve been coming for 45 years as a family so the last year and a half when we missed the seasons it really was kind of hard to get through. Even though they were on TV last year which was good for us for home games."

Entry into the arena was strictly enforced by proof of vaccination. For now, fans 12 and above can enter only if they’ve received at minimum their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Children under the age of 12 can still enter but must wear a mask at all times unless they’re eating or drinking. One fan we talked to welcomed the vaccine mandates.

"I personally like the vaccine mandates. I would much rather know that everybody is vaccinated than have to worry about it," said Cassie Moyer.

Starting on Nov. 2, you must be fully vaccinated to enter the arena with no exceptions. Click here for more information.