Few things can match the excitement of game day at Baxter Arena, home of the Omaha Mavericks. With a buzzing atmosphere, enthusiastic fans, and unique traditions, Omaha Hockey has created a game-day experience that is both thrilling and unforgettable. From the moment fans walk through the doors, they are part of a celebration that extends beyond the rink, reflecting the deep connection between the team and the community.
The Iconic Fish Toss: A Tradition That Lives On
One of the most beloved and unique traditions at Baxter Arena is the “fish toss.” Whenever the Mavericks score their first goal of the game, fans hurl a frozen fish onto the ice — a quirky ritual that dates back to the early days of the program at the Civic Auditorium. The origin of the tradition is as unexpected as the act itself; it began as a playful gesture mocking an old hockey superstition.
“What makes the fish toss so special is that it’s become a part of our identity,” said Mike Kemp, the program’s first head coach. “It’s a way for the fans to show their passion and, in a way, it’s a signal that the game has truly begun”. Today, the fish is kept in a freezer under section 118, ready to be tossed after that all-important first goal, continuing a tradition that has persisted for more than two decades.
The Red Army: Bringing the Noise
Every sports team has its dedicated fan base, but few are as passionate and organized as Omaha’s Red Army. Located in the heart of the lower bowl, this group of die-hard fans brings the noise, energy, and color that define the Baxter Arena game-day experience. Equipped with blue trash cans that double as drums, the Red Army leads the chants, rallying the rest of the arena and keeping the energy high from the first drop of the puck to the final buzzer.
“The Red Army is what makes Baxter feel like home,” said Head Coach Mike Gabinet. “They bring that intensity every game, and it really lifts our guys. When you hear those chants echoing around the arena, you know you’re in for a battle”.
The Red Army’s presence has turned Baxter Arena into one of the toughest places to play for visiting teams, creating an electric atmosphere that can be felt on the ice. Players, fans, and even opposing teams recognize the difference it makes when Baxter is rocking.
Unleash the Fury: A Third-Period Rallying Cry
As the second intermission comes to an end, the lights dim, and fans know what’s coming next: the “Unleash the Fury” hype video. Played before the final period, this video has become a staple of Omaha Hockey’s game-day traditions. It features high-energy music, clips of memorable goals, big hits, and even moments from the Red Army, all designed to fire up the team and the crowd for a strong finish.
“Unleash the Fury is our way of reminding everyone, including the players, that the game’s not over,” said Gabinet. “No matter what the score is, there’s still hockey left to play, and we want to bring everything we’ve got. The fans respond to that, and it creates this incredible energy heading into the last period”.
A Family-Friendly Environment with Local Flavor
Baxter Arena’s game-day experience isn’t just about hockey; it’s about creating a community event that everyone can enjoy. Families flock to the arena not just for the game but for the overall experience. With activities for kids, live music, and local food vendors, there’s something for everyone. Baxter Arena’s location in Aksarben Village also means fans have access to shops, restaurants, and entertainment, making game day an all-day event.
For fans looking to get closer to the action, the pre-game skate provides a rare opportunity to watch the Mavericks warm up on the ice and catch glimpses of their favorite players. “I love coming to the pre-game skate with my kids,” said one local fan. “They get so excited just to see the players up close, and it’s become a little tradition of ours”.
Honoring the Past: Alumni and Special Guests
Part of Omaha Hockey’s game-day magic is how it honors its rich history. Throughout the season, Baxter Arena frequently welcomes back alumni, former coaches, and special guests to drop the ceremonial first puck, keeping the connection between past and present alive. These moments serve as a reminder of the program’s growth and the players who helped build it.
During the 2023-24 season, notable alumni like Andrej Sustr and Scott Parse returned to the arena, drawing cheers from the crowd and inspiring the next generation of Mavericks. “It’s always special when we can bring alumni back and show them what they helped create,” said Gabinet. “They are part of the Omaha Hockey family, and it’s important for the players to see that they’re part of something bigger than themselves”.
Creating Memories That Last
Whether it’s the roar of the Red Army, the thrill of the fish toss, or the excitement of a third-period comeback, every game at Baxter Arena is an experience that fans carry with them long after they leave. The Mavericks have worked hard to create traditions that resonate with their community, making each game not just a sporting event but a celebration of Omaha pride.
“Omaha is a hockey town, and you feel that every time you walk into Baxter Arena,” said Mike Kemp. “We’re more than just a team; we’re part of the fabric of this city, and that’s what makes it all so special”.
