RJ Mahalak tests the new EA Sports NHL 11 game Tuesday night. (Ed Wright photos)

New video game gives fans a chance to skate like the Whalers

  Thanks to EA Sports, local hockey fans can not only watch the Plymouth Whalers this season, they can help them kill a penalty.

  And fans don't even have to lace on a pair of skates.

  With the help of the Canadian Hockey League's media relations departments, EA Sports has added all of the CHL's teams and schedules to its NHL 11 product.

  As a result, you're just a couple of thumb touches away from joining Whaler Jamie Devane on a power play.

  "The graphics are very realistic," said Whalers Director of Communications Pete Krupsky. "They did a great job putting this game together."

  The CHL version of the game is depicted down to the slightest detail, including the center-ice logos and the mugs of the players.

  In conjunction with the game's launch on Tuesday, several Whalers were on hand at Destiny Games in Canton to play the game against fans who showed up from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

  Judging by the looks on the Whalers' faces as they tested the new product, the game received two thumbs up, so to speak.

WHALERS/COMPUWARE OPEN HOUSE
  The Plymouth Whalers and Compuware Arena are offering a free open house at Compuware Arena Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

  Fans can join Whalers Garrett Meurs, Tom Wilson, Stefan Noesen, Adam Nanji, Max Iafrate and Adam Restoule in a free Learn to Play and Learn to Skate session.

  Skate rental is free during the two-hour open house.

  Whalers mascot Shooter will also be involved in the sessions.

  The open house is an ideal event for parents to learn about all of the hockey and skating programs available at Compuware Arena for the 2010-11 season.

  Compuware Arena is located at 14900 Beck Rd. in Plymouth Township, between 5 Mile and M-14.