‘Tis the slushy season. Every little thing from school to the movies to the mall seems a little too moist and a little too hazy and… whine, whine, whine. It’s not quite spring until spring break arrives (and even then…). If only there were a place to go with a little activity, a little of that outdoor feel? How about catching a game? Live? In person? Toss the kids in the SUV and head out to watch one of out local athletic reps do their thing? Here’s a novice’s guide to some basics:

Rochester Razorsharks (basketball – American Basketball Association): Blue Cross Arena; $9-26.50 though various deals can improve that price; last home game this season is 3/8, 7:05 p.m. followed by the playoffs

Rochester Knighthawks (indoor lacrosse – National Lacrosse League): Blue Cross Arena; $15-27 or reduced by the occasional promotion; next home game is 3/31, 7:35 p.m.

Rochester Americans (ice hockey – American Hockey League): Blue Cross Arena; $11-20 or less with the periodic coupon; next home game is 3/9, 7:35 p.m.

Rochester Raiders – Indoor football – Continental Indoor Football League): Armory Arena; $10+ with season tix being the best deal; kickoff the season on 3/17, 7:00 p.m. [now defunct]

And it’s not too early to look forward to opening day for the outdoor teams as well. Nothing quite says you believe in another summer like standing in a spring downpour with a baby sleeping in your arms waiting for the game to resume.

Rochester Raging Rhinos (soccer – United Soccer Leagues); Paetec Park; $10+ though deals are available; 5/4, 8 p.m. (men’s) – 5/25, 7:35 p.m. (women’s)

Rochester Rattlers (outdoor lacrosse – Major League Lacrosse); Paetec Park; only season tix are available right now and they start at $32; 5/26, 7:30 p.m.

Rochester Red Wings (baseball – International League); Frontier Field; $6-10 with numerous deals also popping up; 4/6, 1:35 p.m.

March, 2007