Fan Pack: Florida Everblades

In a way, I'm disappointed in myself.

Having lived down here in Humidity Bay for two-plus years now, the only pro hockey we've seen has been in Tampa.

We've yet to make the four-hour run across Alligator Alley to watch the Panthers, even turning down an offer to make a road trip next week because of work. Even closer, down in Estero, are the Florida Everblades.

The Everblades, the ECHL affiliate shared by the Carolina Hurricanes and Florida Panthers, became the first minor pro team to honor our e-mailed request for a fan pack.

Though some may quibble over schedules and stickers, they can always be put to good use.

The schedule shows when the Augusta Lynx, the Lightning's ECHL club, will be in town. A sticker and white paint on a stick blade create a useful team item. From what I hear, it's pretty easy to get autographs.

Here's my report:

Team: Florida Everblades
Date sent: Aug. 15
Date received: Oct. 25
Elapsed time: 71 days
Items received: three 2008-09 season schedules and three team stickers