More than 3,200 tickets have been scooped up for the Brock Badgers’ first-ever hockey game at the Meridian Centre Friday, Sept. 16, where the men’s hockey team will play the Guelph Gryphons in the Steel Blade Classic.

The 7 p.m. game will build on last year’s two Brock University basketball appearances at the downtown St. Catharines arena complex, which each attracted more than 2,700 people including community members, Brock staff and students.

“Crossing the 3,000-ticket mark is a great sign that the community both at Brock and across Niagara is getting on board with the direction we’re heading,” said Neil Lumsden, Director, Brock Sports. “We want to be out in the community putting on big events that Niagara can get behind and this is a great example of that.”

There are limited free student tickets remaining for the game that can be picked up at the Walker Complex Welcome Desk. Community tickets are available through Ticketmaster for $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors.

Everyone in Niagara is also invited to the Homecoming Tailgate Party being held before the Steel Blade game at the neighbouring Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts.

The party starts at 4 p.m. and features music and family-friendly events. Outside alcohol won’t be permitted, but the tailgate will have a beer tent and barbecue.