An energetic yet introspective crowd of 2,369 came to celebrate the storied history of the 60-year-old Toledo Sports Arena on April 14, and at the end the scene resembled a wake.

The fans grew eerily quiet in the waning moments of the Toledo Storm s 7-3 loss to the Cincinnati Cyclones, which was the last pro hockey game played at the venerable old barn at One Main Street.

Hundreds stayed after the final horn sounded. Some took pictures and cheered public address announcer Bobb Vergiels, whom they normally boo.

Others snapped pictures, and a few unscrewed the backs of the red seats to save as souvenirs.

The 5,230 seat facility, which was built in 1947, is slated to be razed before the end of 2007. For years various minor-league teams, including the Goaldiggers, Blades, and Hornets, played in the rink that offered a huge advantage. The smaller ice surface and the close proximity of the fans led to thousands of memorable contests.

But for one last time the fans shouted Who cares? when the opposing players were announced.

They sported Storm and Goaldigger jerseys and rose out of their seats to get a better view of a fight. They watched the antique Zamboni make one last sweep of the ice.

Then they lingered to reminisce about the legendary players and coaches who for six decades heated up the Sports Arena on so many cold winter nights.

Contact Mark Monroe at:mmonroe@theblade.com

or 419-724-6110.

First Published April 22, 2007, 11:42 a.m.