Overall, nothing tops football. Great fun, food, tailgating, drinking, partying, ect. But I think hockey is much more enjoyable in person. The arena and playing area is smaller, so every seat is a "close" seat and easier to follow. If I was on a first date with a chick who's a sports fan, i'd much rather go to a hockey game than any other sport.
Side note, Golf is alot better to watch on TV than person! Nascar would be great in person if you seat them in couples, a Jeff Gordon fan for every Earnhardt Jr. fan!