The opening night of professional hockey in Columbus was a spectacle both on and off the ice Friday night, as a packed crowd filled the Hamilton Community Center and Ice Arena for the Indiana Sentinels’ inaugural season. While the scoreboard favored the visiting Topeka Scarecrows in a 6–1 decision, the atmosphere inside the arena was electric.

More than 1,000 fans filled the stands and lined the rink, eager to witness history as the Columbus hosted its first Federal Prospects Hockey League game. The crowd’s energy remained high throughout the night. Cheering the big hits, roaring during scuffles, and rallying behind their new hometown team despite the unfavorable outcome.

Despite the loss, professional hockey has made a memorable entrance into Columbus. From the standing-room-only crowd to the palpable excitement surrounding the team, professional hockey has made a memorable entrance into Columbus. The Sentinels will look to bounce back quickly, as they face the Scarecrows again Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

Indiana Sentinels Photo Gallery