ST. LOUIS – It’s been a long summer for St. Louis Blues fans. 

They’ve been waiting for a new season to start following last year’s heartbreaking exit from the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

“I think everyone’s ready to get hockey season started,” said Cindy Marlo, a Blues season ticket holder.

Fans enjoyed live music, autographs from Blues alumni and games during a pre-game pep rally at Union Station on Thursday.

“I think it’s going to be a great year,” said Brad Brock, a Blues fan. “They added a lot of good players.”

Some fans expressed excitement over the combination of veterans and younger players anchored by Jordan Binnington, the Blues’ Stanley Cup champion goalie.

“I think we’re going to be better than last year,” Blues fan Todd Hussein said.

“They look good,” said Jeff Richardson, a Blues fan. “I’m excited.”

Conor Fairchild, a Blues fan attending Thursday night’s game, wore a new Blues sweater sporting the team’s modernized Blue Note.

“I do like the new jersey,” said Fairchild “It looks pretty slick; it’s just a little different.” 

Blues fan Kendall Grosvenor feels hockey season helps bring the St. Louis community together. 

“Everybody’s just so excited when anything happens. It’s so fun,” Grosvenor said.