How Topeka Scarecrows' Gabe Walden became the team's heart and soul

Yahoo Sports1h ago11 min readOriginal source →

TL;DR

Gabe Walden emerged as the heart and soul of the Topeka Scarecrows during their inaugural season, serving as the team's hype man and emcee. His goal is to make everyone feel welcomed and part of the team's identity.

Key points

Gabe Walden is the hype man for the Topeka Scarecrows.
He aims to make fans feel welcomed.
The team has a bright orange identity.
Head coach Robbie Nichols wears an orange suit.
New franchises seek to establish a strong identity.

Mentioned in this story

Gabe WaldenRobbie Nichols

Topeka Scarecrows

TOPEKA — Gabe Walden was hard to miss during the Topeka Scarecrows inaugural season. The team’s hype man and in-stadium emcee was the heart and soul for the FPHL franchise.

“Any interaction that I can get with anyone is a highlight,” Walden said. “I want everyone to feel just as welcomed as if you’re in my home.”

New franchises yearn for an identity, something to hang its hat on. The Scarecrows leaned into the bright orange look with head coach Robbie Nichols consistently wearing an orange suit, shoes and even a whistle.

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The rink is prepped before a hockey game Wednesday, April. 15, 2026 at Stormont Vail Events Center.

Binghamton Black Bear’s Nicholas Swain (24) reacts after scoring during a hockey game Wednesday, April. 15, 2026 at Stormont Vail Events Center.

Topeka Scarecrow’s TJ Sneath (17) slaps the puck during a hockey game Wednesday, April. 15, 2026 at Stormont Vail Events Center.

Topeka Scarecrow’s hype man Gabe Walden stands with the mascot during a hockey game Wednesday, April. 15, 2026 at Stormont Vail Events Center.

Q&A

Who is Gabe Walden and what role does he play for the Topeka Scarecrows?

Gabe Walden is the hype man and in-stadium emcee for the Topeka Scarecrows, contributing significantly to the team's identity during their inaugural season.

How did the Topeka Scarecrows establish their team identity?

The Topeka Scarecrows established their identity by embracing a bright orange theme, highlighted by head coach Robbie Nichols wearing an orange suit and accessories.

What is the significance of Gabe Walden's interactions with fans?

Gabe Walden believes that any interaction with fans is a highlight, aiming to make everyone feel as welcomed as if they were in his home.

What challenges do new sports franchises face in establishing their identity?

New sports franchises often struggle to create a unique identity and connection with fans, which is crucial for building a loyal following.