Jackalopes' new foods

J.D. Foster says he'd come to Odessa Jackalopes hockey games even if they didn't have food.

"But this is better than what they had last year," the Andrews resident said after sampling some of the new food items the team unveiled during a "taste test" for season ticket holders to start the 2008-2009 season.

Along with classics like Frito pie and nachos, fans this year can enjoy items like chicken tacos, barbecue with potato salad, cheese curds and bratwurst.

Judging by the last two items, it should come as no surprise the Jackalopes' new man in charge of concessions is from Wisconsin.

"I figured the things I enjoy at different ballparks are things people would enjoy here," said Kevin Leisgang, who took over as director of Jack Shack Entertainment four months ago.

Leisgang said the cheese curds were a suggestion of Jackalopes' co-owner Bill Nybord.

The breaded and fried balls of fromage were a big hit with Stephanie Parum of Odessa.

"It's pretty good," she said. "It's getting better."

Parum, a two-year season ticket holder, said she also enjoyed the grilled chicken.

"It seems more dinner like instead of snack like," she said of this season's selections compared to the past.

The team promised lines at concession stands wouldn't be as long once the season starts as they were for the free event Thursday evening at Ector County Coliseum.

The themed concession stands included All American Grille and Mexican Stand. They'll be open at all Coliseum events, from rodeo to concerts.

On tryout night, Leisgang said chicken strips were particularly popular.

But he added he'd make adjustments if that's what the fans want.

"I'm not set on any one item," Leisgang said. "If (fans) like something I don't like, if something's not going well in our stand - I'll change it."