A Grassroots Rangers Rally
As we slowly roll up on the All-Star Break and the Rangers remain in hot competition for a return to the post-season, 2011 is off to an auspicious start at least in that fans will want to watch more Rangers games as the year progresses. With almost half the season already underway, this will fortunately alleviate a little stress on the wallet as stress begins to mount around the playoff bubble. In what is shaping up to boil down to a 4 team race for 3 spots, between the Rangers, Thrashers, Canadiens and Hurricanes, the Blueshirts’ chances at this point still seem fairly optimistic, though a few more home wins would go a long way towards alleviating any concern. Season ticket packages are still available on the Rangers website, at reduced rates for the remainder of the season, if you would like to take part in the home crowd experience. After all, there’s no better place to watch the Rangers than in person at Madison Square Garden.Of course, season tickets aren’t an option for all fans, despite the need for crowds down the stretch, due to busy schedules and geographic proximity. For fans in the New York area, local programming will certainly carry both home and away games. However, for fans from afar, it could be approaching a point in the season where your TV service provider offers reduced rates on NHL packages. Or perhaps you do live in the area but simply want to watch more than just the Rangers to keep tabs on the playoff race and/or divisional standings. For example, on Center Ice through Dish Network or Direct TV New York, Atlanta, Montreal and Carolina games can all come straight to your living room. And, as always, highlights can be seen on ESPN and other sports news channels.No matter the method to your madness or medium of choice, it’s time for fans to both show up and/or tune in and rally the Rangers to a strong second half. As traditional sports theory implies, the stronger we make our presence felt in support the larger their presence will loom on the ice.