OPENING DAY: Vancouver vs. Spokane Indians on SWX! - SWX Right Now-Sports for Spokane, CdA, Tri-Cities, WA

The Spokane Indians expect a near sellout crowd on opening day at Avista Stadium. The Indians host Vancouver Friday night in a game televised live on SWX.

Spokane practiced Thursday night under the lights so they know what to expect.

The packed house at Spokane's award-winning stadium is a far cry from the sparse crowds the newly arrived Indians are used to – whether it was in high school, college or in the Arizona

league.

"I'm really excited," said pitcher Shawn Blackwell. "In Arizona there wasn't much fan support at games. They don't seem like real games. I'm excited to get out in front of the fans and play some baseball."

It's not like they weren't playing real baseball in Arizona. It's just…

"The atmosphere is kind of what makes it," said pitcher Connor Sadzeck. "It'll be nice to have that crowd, for sure."

And then there's the field at Avista Stadium. The field is the perennial favorite in the Northwest League. The groundskeepers keep winning award after award for keeping it in perfect condition.

"I like it; I've only been between here and hotel but the field is nice, so you can't beat a nice field," said infielder Barrett Serratto.

John Kukuruda, in his second year in the NWL, will get the start on Friday against the Canadians.

"I'm just trying to prepare myself for Friday and be ready for the game."

The game gets underway at 6:30 on Friday. Fans will be treated to a fireworks show after the game.