DJ E-V, second from right, greets fans of the Youngstown Phantoms hockey team at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre on Wednesday night. With him, from left, are Blake Bechen, Andrew Strathmass and Chase Pietila. Hundreds came out to the Ignite the Valley rally for the Phantoms, which won its league’s championship Clark Cup last weekend....Staff photo / Greg MacAfee

YOUNGSTOWN — Hundreds of fans gathered Wednesday night to celebrate the Youngstown Phantoms at their “Ignite the Valley” rally.

The rally, featuring players from the team that just last weekend captured the coveted Clark Cup, took place at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre downtown.

In addition to music, food trucks and autograph signings, several players enjoyed games of hockey with youngsters in the crowd.

The 2023 title represents the team’s first championship win the U.S. Hockey League since its inception.

Fireworks climaxed the downtown celebration last night.