My best friend is a hockey fan and his son's played in hight school. The equipment you need to buy is amongst the most expensive in sports. I've always considered it an elitist sport.
Anyway, every time he brings up hockey my response is "Nobody watches hockey". I'm pretty sure I'm right.
With all due respect, I must challenge you on that statement.
My daughter's husband is a hockey player - so there is at least 'one' family that watches hockey. (grin)