Hockey is our driving force. Whether you are a die hard Blues fan or a hardcore Maple Leafs fan or anything in between, October through April is packed with excitement. Not many other sports fanatics will understand us, so here are eleven things only hockey fans will get.

1. Summertime is NOT exciting.

With the exception of the lucky few teams who can get into the Stanley Cup Playoffs, summertime is really just a boring countdown until opening night. Sure, we may have fun at some parties or celebrations, but we all are waiting for the puck to drop.

2. Baseball is hardly comparable to hockey.

Generally speaking, hockey season ends as baseball season begins. Though some of us may enjoy baseball, hockey will always be first in our hearts.

3. Hockey becomes like a drug.

After our first game, hockey is all we care about. From stats to trades to fights, we love it all (especially fights, am I right?). It is very easy to become addicted to the game. The icy cold breeze, the rush of a goal, the overwhelming happiness from a win are all the drug to our hungry addiction.

4. Hockey gear, hockey gear, hockey gear.

No, seriously. If given the chance, we would buy our favorite hockey jerseys at the drop of a hat. However, it wouldn't just be a jersey. Anything from game specific pucks to rally towels to used game sticks, the options are endless (though our money supplies aren't). These memorabilia are nearly priceless and are a fan favorite for hockey fans.

5. Our favorite teams are the love of our lives.

Honestly, a hockey fan is die hard. Very rarely do you see a hockey fan who is a band wagoner. Our favorite teams are like the guy or girl we have always wanted to date, which means we stick by them through wins AND losses. Though Stanley Cup Playoffs are amazing, and not making it is a bit upsetting, we will always be back for the next season, ready to go.

6. Regardless of trades, some team members are always family.

When a player leaves a football or baseball team, often times they are forgotten. However in hockey, when a player is traded, they are NEVER forgotten. When their new team comes home, that player gets a big "Welcome Back!". Something that is so unique is that trading can make us mad or upset, but we will always welcome them back home on a game day the next season.

And finally...

7. Hockey fans are a family.

Regardless of the team you like or root for, each and every one of you probably have related to one or more of these items. We are a family. We are in our ice cold stadiums cheering on our favorite sport. So, here's to the NHL and the 216-2017 season.