Raiders to play in front of sellout home crowd Friday night

“It’s a fun place to play for our guys,” Scissons said. “It’s a place where people dread to come otherwise. I remember the former coach in Regina Dave Struch, who I worked with in Saskatoon, said he’d like to bring the team to the Hauser for every game that he could when it’s full because it teaches them how to play in a hostile environment. Our fans are right on top of the bench and on top of the players, and we’re vocal.”

As jarring as it can be for other teams to play in that setting, the Raiders themselves will receive a shot in the arm. Every big hit, every goal, and every key play will send a jolt of electricity through the crowd.

“I’m not going to say that it’s going to mean a goal one way or another, but what it does do is it gives our guys some extra jump in their step,” said Scissons. “Potentially, it makes our guys just a little more comfortable. Regina has played in front of sold-out crowds before, the Bedard factor is a thing… but our sell-out crowd is a little bit different.”

The Connor Bedard factor has been in full effect throughout the second half of the season, and it’s sure to bring in some fans who aren’t always at Raiders games. Those fans may well find a reason besides the Pats’ phenom to come back another night.

“A full Hauser lures you to come back,” Scissons said. “You get swept up in the energy and the emotion. Ideally, it’s a big Raiders win, and this place erupts in the way our guys deserve.”

Scissons added the extra tickets sold doesn’t mean too much extra work leading up to the big night, though it might keep security and staff on their toes during the game itself.

—-

rob.mahon@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @RobMahonPxP

by Rob Mahon

Raiders to play in front of sellout home crowd Friday night

What's Trending