Local fans pack the Resch

ASHWAUBENON - There was no shortage of lakeshore fans in the stands at the Resch Thursday night for the Algoma game.

While it's a bit of a change from Madison, most enjoy the fact the tournament is practically in their backyard.

Algoma High School's spirit and bright green presence was hard to miss along the sidelines Thursday night.

Fans say the 40 minute drive sure beats a two-hour drive to Madison.

"It's great not to have to get on a bus with a bunch of people or trying to car pool to save on gas and stuff," said Algoma Junior Emily Wiese.

"It's really nice to be here in Green Bay, so all our fans can come along, where in Madison wasn't a big option for them," said Senior Taylor Daul.

And because of a shorter trip, even some Kewaunee fans decided to come a day early.

"A local team, if they're going to support us, we support them," explained Jim Walecka of Kewaunee.

Last spring, the WIAA voted to move the girls’ tournament from Madison to Ashwaubenon, ending its 37 year run in Madison.

The agreement is for two years. That means the future home after 2014 is still up in the air.

However, even fans who had to travel a few hours say it's all about supporting the team, no matter the venue.

"I think it's special either way. Obviously the Kohl Center is really cool, but it's still state and so it's still going to be fun," explained Cuba City Senior Jason Derby.

Resch officials say they've sold around 24,000 tickets so far.

They expect around 34,000 people to walk through doors during the tournament.