Recently I attended a Quinnipiac University hockey game versus Boston University. Since the Stanley Cup last year and the tragic end to the season (not a Penguins fan, sorry, not sorry), I forgot how much I enjoyed the energy and thrill of watching a hockey game. And of course you can watch it on TV, but nothing is the same as being at the rink surrounded by screaming fans and cold air. Some people, though, are truly missing out just watching football or basketball, but I am determined to turn everyone reading this article into a die-hard hockey fan.

1. The Fights

Probably the most obvious argument for why you should watch hockey. The anticipation for a fight that could happen at any moment is part of the reason why you're there (as long as your fave team is the one that seems to be winning). And of course you're going to be yelling down to the ice as if the players could hear you too, which brings me to my next point...

2. The Crowd

I don't know about you, but I am one of those people that WILL defend my team in the stands against anyone trying to insult them. And yeah, it embarrasses the people I'm with but it's part of hockey; I can't help myself. It's truly thrilling. But also, finding other fans who share your passion and will cheer as loudly as they can with you is an amazing feeling.

3. The Game Itself

Hockey is so much more fast-paced than all other sports, AND IT'S ON ICE! The players race down the ice back and forth trying to score goals against some of the greatest goalies alive. Okay I'm definitely not doing this justice but I swear other sports don't compare.

4. The Players

They're huge, they're good looking, and since a lot of them are Canadian, they're nice. If you're lucky enough to meet one in person, they're not too proud to take a selfie with you (and I'd post mine here if I didn't look gross in it).

5. The Venue

Everyone has their preferences for where they want to sit, but for real, any seat will have an awesome view and an amazing time. If you're up against the glass, you get to see the players slam into each other right in front of you, but if you're all the way in the upper tiers, you're able to see the strategy and plays that teams make to score goals (And as a Rangers fan, we get to play in Madison Square Garden so its pretty lit).

6. The Jerseys

They're just so much cuter than other sports jerseys and I will debate anyone on this.

7. It's Canadian

At a time when you might not be too proud to be an American, it's nice to pretend you're Canadian for a couple hours, enjoying their national sport, eh? Grab some poutine while you're at it and root for the Maple Leafs and next thing you know people will be mistaking you for a real canuck.

While you're watching slow-moving American football, I'll be yelling at my laptop screen for my team to start shooting some pucks.