Record-best start sets stage for Steelheads

(Boise, ID) ? With a three-game weekend sweep over the Stockton Thunder, the ECHL?s Idaho Steelheads have established a new franchise record for best 20-game start with 16 wins, three losses, and one shootout loss. The Steelheads began play in 1997 as a member of the now-defunct West Coast Hockey League. Going into December, Idaho leads the ECHL in wins (16), points (33), and winning percentage (.825). ?There?s a whole lot of hockey left to play,? Steelheads head coach Derek Laxdal said. ?But I?m happy with how the team has played thusfar, We?ve got to work even harder now, though, because we?re wearing the bulls-eye.? The work begins this week as the Steelheads begin ?Rivalry Week.? Idaho hosts the Alaska Aces on Thursday and Friday at Qwest Arena before playing against Utah on Saturday at the E Center in West Valley City. Alaska is one of just two teams remaining that Idaho has been playing since its inception (Bakersfield is the other) and Utah is Idaho?s nearest geographical ? and, over the past two seasons, most-common -- opponent. The first 1,000 fans to come through the doors Thursday and Friday wearing a Steelheads t-shirt, jersey, or hat will get a voucher for one free small beer or Pepsi product. Any fan purchasing a hat, jersey, or t-shirt at the Qwest Arena merchandise stands at either game will receive two vouchers. The Steelheads return to the Qwest Arena ice Thursday night, December 3, when they host the Alaska Aces. Tickets are available at the Qwest Arena box office or by calling 208.331.TIXS. Full-season and partial-season ticket plans remain available as well. Contact the Steelheads front office at 208.383.0080 for more in