The Fargo Force are a junior ice hockey team that play in the United States Hockey League (USHL). The USHL is the top junior ice hockey league in the United States and is widely considered to be the best developmental ice hockey league in the world for players aged 16-20 who are hoping to advance their hockey careers. Many current and former National Hockey League players got their start in the USHL. The Fargo Force have been members of the USHL since their inaugural 2008-09 season. Over the years, they have established themselves as one of the premier franchises in the league.
About the Fargo Force
The Fargo Force play their home games at Scheels Arena in Fargo, North Dakota. Scheels Arena has a capacity of 5,000 for hockey games. The Force have played in Scheels Arena since the team’s founding in 2008. Prior to the construction of Scheels Arena, there was no suitable venue for a USHL team in the Fargo-Moorhead metropolitan area. The addition of Scheels Arena and the Fargo Force helped spur a major growth in interest in high-level hockey in the region.
Fargo Force History
The Fargo Force began play in the 2008-09 USHL season. They replaced the Fargo-Moorhead Jets, who had played in the North American Hockey League from 1996 to 2008. The Force’s inaugural season was a successful one, as they finished second in the USHL’s West Division and qualified for the playoffs.
Over the next decade, the Force established themselves as one of the USHL’s most successful franchises. They have made the playoffs in 9 of their 15 seasons in the league so far. Their best season came in 2009-10, when they finished with the best regular season record in the USHL and won the Clark Cup as league champions.
While the Force have not able to replicate the success of that 2009-10 season, they have remained one of the USHL’s top teams. Recent Force alumni now playing in the NHL include Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Caleb Jones and Carolina Hurricanes goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov.
Scheels Arena
Scheels Arena has been the Fargo Force’s home arena since their inaugural 2008-09 season. Some key facts about Scheels Arena:
- Location: 5225 31st Ave S, Fargo, ND 58104
- Capacity: 5,000 for hockey
- Opened: 2008
- Construction cost: $25 million
- Other tenants: Fargo-Moorhead Bears (baseball)
The arena was financed through a public-private partnership between the City of Fargo and Scheels Sporting Goods. The Fargodome had previously served as the home for minor league hockey teams in Fargo-Moorhead, but it no longer met USHL standards. The construction of Scheels Arena enabled Fargo to attract a USHL franchise.
Amenities
Scheels Arena provides both players and fans with a modern, comfortable environment to watch elite junior hockey. Some key amenities and features include:
- Pro Shop selling Fargo Force merchandise
- Concession stands with typical hockey fare like hot dogs, pizza, and beer
- 24 luxury suites available for rental
- 3 large video screens
- Modern NHL-sized locker rooms
- Training and workout facilities for players
The arena’s seating bowl features chair-back seats rather than bleachers for maximum comfort. There is not a bad view in the intimate 5,000 seat venue. The proximity of fans to the action helps create an electrifying game atmosphere.
Attending a Fargo Force Game at Scheels Arena
Taking in a Fargo Force game at Scheels Arena is a thrilling experience for any hockey fan. Here is a guide to what you can expect when attending a game:
Tickets
- Tickets can be purchased at the Scheels Arena box office, on Ticketmaster, or through the Fargo Force website.
- Ticket prices typically range from $15-25 per game depending on seat location.
- There are deep discounts for season ticket packages.
- Special promotional nights may have discounts or offers on tickets.
Parking
There are approximately 1,500 parking spaces surrounding Scheels Arena that can be accessed for Fargo Force games. Pre-purchasing parking from Ticketmaster guarantees you a spot. Parking costs $10-15 depending on proximity to arena.
Food & Drink
- Beer, wine, and standard arena fare like hot dogs, nachos, pizza, and popcorn are all available for purchase inside the arena.
- No outside food or beverages are allowed.
- In-seat vending is available from vendors walking the aisles.
- There are multiple concession stands located on the concourse.
Arriving Early
Getting to Scheels Arena early allows you time to explore all the arena has to offer and soak in the atmosphere. You can:
- Catch players warming up on the ice
- Shop for Fargo Force merchandise at the Pro Shop
- Purchase food and drinks ahead of puck drop
- Catch highlights of other USHL games on the video board
Doors typically open 60-90 minutes prior to faceoff for games. Pregame warmups start about 30 minutes before gametime.
In-Game Entertainment
There are fun promotions and entertainment during intermissions and breaks in play at Fargo Force games:
- Chuck-a-puck contests where fans buy pucks to throw on the ice between periods trying to win prizes
- Youth hockey club members playing short scrimmages
- Shooting contests for fans
- T-shirt tosses into the crowd
- Appearances and performances from Star Wars characters due to the team’s name
Hockey Atmosphere
The intimate environs of Scheels Arena make for an electrifying hockey atmosphere. Fans are right on top of the action and can hear players communicating on the ice. The arena’s acoustics amplify the sounds of hits along the boards and pucks ringing off posts.
The passionate Fargo fans create a deafening roar after Force goals and big hits. They consistently provide the team with a classic noisy home ice advantage. Parents, relatives, and college scouts for players pack the arena all year for games.
The Fargo Force Experience
Taking in a Fargo Force USHL game at Scheels Arena provides everything a hockey fan could want out of a high-quality junior hockey experience. Some factors that comprise the terrific Fargo Force experience include:
- Watching elite teenaged hockey prospects on the doorstep of the NHL
- Affordable family entertainment at reasonable prices
- Loud, engaged crowds fueling a raucous atmosphere
- State-of-the-art arena with top amenities
- Opportunities to meet Force players up-close before and after games
- Exposure to hockey community’s youth as ballboys and intermission entertainment
- Passionate Fargo hockey culture on full display
The Fargo Force’s exciting brand of hard-hitting USHL hockey matched with Scheels Arena’s amenities and intimacy combines to create a must-see event for hockey fans of any age. Away fans routinely cite games in Fargo as highlights of road trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about the Fargo Force and attending their games at Scheels Arena:
What league do the Fargo Force play in?
The Fargo Force are members of the United States Hockey League, which is a Tier I junior league. The USHL is considered the top junior hockey league in the United States.
How much do Fargo Force tickets cost?
Individual ticket prices typically range from $15-25 depending on seat location. Season tickets, bulk tickets, and special promotions can reduce the average cost per ticket.
Can I buy Fargo Force tickets online?
Yes, tickets are available for purchase on Ticketmaster, the Scheels Arena website, and the Fargo Force website. Purchasing online in advance guarantees your tickets.
Is Scheels Arena accessible?
Yes, Scheels Arena meets ADA accessibility standards with wheelchair seating, accessible restrooms, and elevators. Contact the arena in advance for specific accommodations.
Is Scheels Arena family friendly?
Absolutely. Fargo Force games provide great family entertainment with a lively hockey atmosphere. Promotional nights like “Princess Night” and ample kid-focused concessions make it an ideal venue for families.
Where do players enter/exit? Can I get autographs?
Players typically enter through the back south entrance and exit on the west side by their parking lot. Fans often congregate hoping for autographs after games.
Is food & drink expensive?
Menu items are reasonably priced comparative to other sports venues. You can get a hot dog, popcorn, and soda for under $15. There are value meals for families available as well.
Conclusion
The Fargo Force offer fans the best of junior hockey with an exciting, competitive on-ice product and a top-notch fan experience. Scheels Arena provides the intimacy, amenities, and atmosphere necessary for a thrilling night out at a Fargo Force game. The team has become an integral part of the Fargo community and a source of pride for hockey fans across North Dakota. Anyone seeking quality affordable family entertainment should look no further than taking in a Force game at The Scheel.