The top level of professional hockey returned to Ohio when the National Hockey League granted an expansion franchise to 5 Columbus area investors. The Columbus "Blue Jackets" - the named reflecting the blue color of the Union Army - opened their doors for the 2000-2001 season.  The Jackets play at the newly constructed National Arena - a truely fantastic modern facility.

Tickets for the Blue Jackets can be purchased through their web site.

Every year around the NHL All Star break, the AHL Syracuse Crunch hosts the Cleveland Barons and Cincinnati Mighty Ducks for a regular season game at the home of the Blue Jackets.  The fans in Heckler's Grove just might have to schedule a road trip...