Raise your hand if you are deeply familiar with Arena Football League or the Utah Blaze.

If you are like me, then your hand stayed down. And that is a shame. Arena Football provides a wonderful spectator experience in an intimate setting with fast-paced action.

This past weekend the Utah Blaze played the Spokane Shock. I was there, and it was my first Arena game.

The Blaze won a 52-48 game highlighted by 10 total touchdown passes, two interceptions returned for touchdowns, and two kickoffs returned for touchdowns.

As you can tell, the action is definitely plentiful in this sport.

Reigning AFL MVP Tommy Grady of the Utah Blaze (formerly of the University of Utah) accounted for seven of the 10 total passing touchdowns in what was an action-packed game.

What makes the Blaze a perfect family weekend activity? Well, as mentioned above, the fast-paced action and high scoring of the sport make it feel almost like an arcade version of football. Kids are sure to enjoy the faster action and closer view to the sport.

In addition to the game itself, the Blaze does a great job on intermission entertainment with dancers, T-shirt cannons, music, and fan and local challenges. The fun truly never stopped.

With the playing field so close to the fans, the action hits home and loose balls often go flying into the hands of excited fans. And, unlike in the NFL, the fans lucky enough to catch one of these footballs can keep them.

The Arena league takes great effort to make the sport and the game about the fans. In addition to the great view of the action on the field and the chance for a great souvenir, the team puts on a “Fan Fest” after each game where families and fans can meet the players and Blaze dancers, get autographs, run around and just have fun after the game. Perfect for a family outing.

If you like fast action, football, family fun and a great atmosphere, don’t be like me. Get out and get to a Utah Blaze game! I, for sure, will be going back with my family.

The Utah Blaze play at EnergySolutions Arena, and with UTA’s FrontRunner now on line in Utah County, there is no reason to keep this sport a secret.

I will see you there, and let’s try to catch some of those free footballs.

Utah Blaze vs. Iowa Barnstormers

What: Arena Football League game

When: Saturday at 7 p.m.

Where: EnergySolutions Arena, 301 W. South Temple, Salt Lake City

Cost: Tickets $10-$100

Info: (801) 355-SEAT or www.smithtix.com