Cole Back on the Ice, Carlson Center

Former Clarkson standout, and Carolina Hurricanes star Erik Cole finally got a chance to hit the ice in practice after suffering a devastating injury in March. Hurricanes fans are still holding out hope that Erik will get a chance to play in the Conference or Stanley Cup Finals if the Hurricanes advance. The Hurricanes lost the opening game of their series against the Buffalo Sabres, and are down 1-0. Todd Marchant's Mighty Ducks are also down 1-0 in their series, falling to Edmonton 3-1.

I had a chance to visit the Carlson Center in Fairbanks, Alaska, home of the UAF Nanooks earlier this week for a high school graduation while visiting family. The place looks "rustic" to say the least, with the Carlson Center sign out front oxidizing away. In addition, has a bonus teal/blue color that makes the roof of Cheel and CAMP look like they're in place with their surroundings.

While the ice was not in place, you can tell that this place is probably pretty intimidating when there's a packed house, which at Carlson is about 4,600. Nothing like coming off the plane in Fairbanks, or the six hour road trip from Anchorage to show up in -40 degree weather and see a tight two-tier arena filled to the brim. Having two levels puts pretty much every seat close to the ice. It would've been great to see a hockey game up there, but alas, I'll have to settle for Gallagher instead if I can snag tickets.