recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Little Falls Pilots

The **Little Falls Pilots** are a team of the Granite Hockey League, where they have played since their (and the league's) inaugural 1953-54 season. Based in Little Falls, Minnesota, the Pilots play their home games at the 800-seat Exchange Arena.

## History

The Pilots are named in honor of Charles Lindbergh, the first person to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Lindbergh grew up in Little Falls as a child, graduating from Little Falls High School (Class of 1918).

The Pilots have won 1 Granite League Title (1978).

### Culture

#### Traditions

Since their move indoors in 1979, the Pilots have used an authentic Air Raid Siren as their goal horn. You can hear the siren sing when Little Falls enters, at the end of each period, and after every Pilots goal.

Little Falls has taken to the ice for every period to the sound of Kenny Loggins' "Danger Zone" from the blockbuster movie "Top Gun". Fans sing along yelling *"Highway to the Danger Zone, Ride into the Danger Zone!"*

### Charlie

Beginning in 1980, the Pilots have a mascot named Charlie. A mustachioed man dressed in a black leather aviator helmet, black-rimmed goggles, tan scarf, black and gold bomber jacket, black pants and black shoes, Charlie is meant to be Charles Lindbergh, the Pilots' aforementioned namesake. He can be seen at all the Pilots' home games at Little Falls Ice Arena.

### Rivalry Trophies

#### Camp Ripley Memorial Trophy

The Pilots compete against their archrivals the Brainerd Lumberjacks for the Camp Ripley Memorial Trophy, decided by the winner of each season series (or, when the season series is tied, who scored more goals between the two teams).

Currently, the Lumberjacks hold the trophy, having won it back in 1989. The Pilots lead the all-time trophy series 4-2.
The Megaphone

**Current Streak** | Cake Eaters, 3 (1986-present)

**The Megaphone** is a rivalry trophy awarded since 1978 to the winner of the season series between the Edina Cake Eaters and the Richfield Roosters of the West Metro Hockey League. In years where the season series is tied, whichever team has scored more goals in their meetings wins the Megaphone.

Each half of the Megaphone is painted in the two teams' colors with the respective city name in gold block letters on either side, one half in the Cake Eaters' black with a gold block "EDINA" and the other in the Roosters' red with a gold block "RICHFIELD". The winning team displays their side of the Megaphone for as long as they are in possession of it.

Currently, Edina holds the Megaphone, having won it back in 1986 and holding it the next 2 years. The Cake Eaters lead the all-time trophy series, 7-4.

## Rivalry Facts

The idea for the Megaphone was first pitched by a Roosters player and an alumnus of Michigan State University, who suggested the Cocks and Eaters compete for a trophy similar to the football trophy which his Michigan State Spartans competed for against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

Currently, both teams are tied in Kellogg Cups won (1-1); however, the Eaters outpace the Cocks in West Metro League Titles (9-3) and Super Series appearances (17-4).
Blue Earth Hockey League

The **Blue Earth Hockey League** is an amateur hockey league with teams based in south central Minnesota and is one of the 18 leagues which comprise the Minnesota Amateur Hockey League. Based in Mankato, the league gets its name from its teams' proximity to the shores of the Blue Earth River.

Its current champions are the New Ulm Bavarians, who won their 9th League Title in the 1987—88 season, tying the Mankato Moose for the record for most Blue Earth League Titles.

In 1971, the Bavarians became the first Blue Earth League team to win the Kellogg Cup when they defeated the Edina Cake Eaters 3-1 in the Final. 14 years later, in 1985, the Bavarians won the Cup again, defeating the Fargo Titans 4-3 in the Final, remaining the only Blue Earth League team to ever win the Cup.

## Current Teams

### Former teams

* Marshall Pheasants ⁠— played in BEHL in 1969, left to form Southwest Hockey Association
* Sioux Falls Packers ⁠— played in BEHL from 1965—1969, left to form Southwest Hockey Association

## List of Champions

**Bold text** denotes the team won the Kellogg Cup that year. (Parentheses indicate that a BEHL team won the Kellogg Cup without winning the league championship.)

* 1965: Sioux Falls Packers
* 1966: Mankato Moose
* 1967: New Ulm Bavarians
* 1968: Sioux Falls Packers
* 1969: Sioux Falls Packers
* 1970: New Ulm Bavarians
* 1971: **New Ulm Bavarians**
* 1972: New Ulm Bavarians
* 1973: New Ulm Bavarians
* 1974: Mankato Moose
* 1975: St. Peter Governors
* 1976: St. Peter Governors
* 1977: Mankato Moose
* 1978: Mankato Moose
* 1979: Mankato Moose
* 1980: Mankato Moose
* 1981: Mankato Moose
* 1982: New Ulm Bavarians
* 1983: New Ulm Bavarians
* 1984: Mankato Moose
* 1985: St. Peter Governors (**New Ulm Bavarians**)
* 1986: Mankato Moose
* 1987: New Ulm Bavarians
* 1988: New Ulm Bavarians
Stewartville Scarlets

The **Stewartville Scarlets** are a team of the Valley Hockey League, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1986-87 season. Based in Stewartville, Minnesota, the Scarlets play their home games at the 550-seat Stewartville Civic Center.

## History

The Scarlets nickname comes from the teams primary color.

### Culture

#### Tainted Love

Stewartville fans have been singing along to the Soft Cell hit "Tainted Love" during the second intermission of every Scarlet home game since their inaugural 1987 season.

The crowd sings along with the entire song, adding some extra chants here and there.

Lyrics:

> *"Sometimes I feel I've got to (Bum! Bum!) run away, I've got to (Bum! Bum!) get away, From the pain you drive into the heart of me*
>
>
> *The love we share seems to go nowhere, And I've lost my light, For I toss and turn, I can't sleep at night*
>
>
> *Once I ran to you (I ran), Now I run from you, This tainted love you've given, I give you all a boy could give you, Take my tears and that's not nearly all, Tainted love (oh-oh-oh-oh), Tainted love*
>
>
> *Now I know I've got to (Bum! Bum!) run away, I've got to (Bum! Bum!) get away, You don't really want any more from me*
>
>
> *To make things right you need someone to hold you tight, And you think love is to pray, But I'm sorry, I don't pray that way*
>
>
> *Once I ran to you (I ran), Now I run from you, This tainted love you've given, I give you all a boy could give you, Take my tears and that's not nearly all, Tainted love (oh-oh-oh-oh), Tainted love*
>
>
> *Don't touch me, please, I cannot stand the way you tease, I love you though you hurt me so, Now I'm gonna pack my things and go*
>
>
> *(Bum! Bum!) Tainted love (oh-oh-oh-oh), (Bum! Bum!) Tainted love (oh-oh-oh-oh), (Bum! Bum!) Tainted love (oh-oh-oh-oh), (Bum! Bum!) Tainted love (oh-oh-oh-oh)*
>
>
>
> *(Bum! Bum!) Touch me, baby, tainted love, Touch me, baby, tainted love, Tainted love (oh-oh-oh-oh), Tainted love (oh-oh-oh-oh), Tainted love"*
>
>
Bloomington West Terriers

The **Bloomington West Terriers** are a team of the West Metro Hockey League, where they have played as a charter member since the league's inaugural 1971-72 season. Based on the west side of Bloomington, Minnesota, the Terriers play their home games at the 2,500-seat Bloomington Ice Garden, sharing a hometown and a home ice with their archrivals the Bloomington Bears.

## History

Before joining the West Metro League, the Terriers played their first 3 seasons (1969-1971) as a member of the Twin Cities Hockey League and its West Division.

The Terriers have won 2 West Metro League Titles (1982 & 1985) and appeared in 1 Super Series (1972).

### Weston III

The Terriers are named in honor of an Airedale terrier owned by one of the players. Said terrier, named Weston because the name includes "West," would serve as the Terrible Terriers' unofficial mascot for their first three seasons before being named their official mascot in 1972.

Currently, Weston III wears the collar after the original Weston passed away in 1979, followed by Weston II's passing in 1988.

### Rivalry Trophies

#### The Bone

The Terriers compete with their in-city rivals the Bloomington Bears for The Bone, awarded to the team which wins their head-to-head series each year (or, if the teams are tied, the one with the higher goal differential).

Currently, the Bears hold the Bone, having won it for the first time in 1986 and holding it the following two years. The Terriers lead the all-time trophy series, 7-3.
Grand Marais Explorers

The **Grand Marais Explorers** are a team of the Lake Superior Hockey League, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1967-68 season. Based in Grand Marais, Minnesota, the Explorers play their home games at the 750-seat Cook County Community Center.

## History

The Explorers nickname honors the French explorers who settled the town of Grand Marais, as well as the area's rich canoeing history.

### Culture

#### Traditions

Grand Marais has the tradition of letting local children create a tunnel for the Explorers to go through on their way to the ice. The kids hold canoe paddles up and out from two sides, forming a tunnel from the locker room to the rink door.

#### Girl from the North Country

Since their very first season, Explorers fans have come together arm in arm and swayed side to side while singing Bob Dylans "Girl from the North Country" during the second intermission.

Lyrics:

> *"If you're travelin' in the north country fair, Where the winds hit heavy on the borderline, Remember me to one who lives there, Oh she once was a true love of mine*
>
>
> *See for me if her hair's hanging down, It curls and falls all down her breast, See for me that her hair's hanging down, That's the way I remember her best*
>
>
> *If you go when the snowflakes falls, When the rivers freeze and summer ends, Please see for me if she's wearing a coat so warm, To keep her from the howlin' winds*
>
>
> *If you're travelin' in the north country fair, Where the winds hit heavy on the borderline, Please say "hello" to the one who lives there, Oh she was once a true love of mine*
>
>
> *If you're travelin' in the north country fair, Where the winds hit heavy on the borderline, Remember me to one who lives there, Oh she once was a true love of mine*
>
>
>
> *A true love of mine, A true love of mine, True love of mine, A true love of mine, A true love of mine, She was once a true love of mine"*
>
>

### The Agate

The Explorers' main rivals are the Lutsen Mountaineers, Silver Bay Beavers and Two Harbors Wolfpack, against whom they compete for The Agate, a Lake Superior agate awarded to the team which finishes the highest in the standings at the end of the season.

Currently, the Explorers hold the Agate, having won it back in 1989. The Explorers and Wolfpack are tied for the all-time trophy series lead at 5-5-4-0, with the Mountaineers not having won it yet as of 1989.
Red Lake Falls Rebels

The **Red Lake Falls Rebels** are a team of the Red River Hockey League, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1986-87 season. Based in Red Lake Falls, Minnesota, the Rebels play their home games at the 600-seat Cardin-Hunt Arena.

## History

### Culture

#### Traditions

Red Lake Falls has used David Bowie's "Rebel Rebel" as their victory song since their inaugural 1987 season.

Fans leave the Arena singing *"Doo doo doo-doo doo doo doo doo"* & *"Rebel Rebel!"*

### Season-By-Season Results

 1988
 1989
Mounds View Gunners

The **Mounds View Gunners** are a team of the Northeast Hockey Association, where they have played as a charter member since the league's inaugural 1982-83 season. Based in Mounds View, Minnesota, the Gunners play their home games at the 500-seat Shoreview Arena in nearby Shoreview, sharing a home ice with their archrivals the Shoreview Pike.

## History

Before joining the Northeast Association, the Gunners played their first 11 seasons (1972-1982) as a founding member of the East Metro Hockey League.

The Gunners name references Mounds View's close proximity to the Twin Cities Armory, which played a major part in the town's population increase after World War II.

The Gunners have won a league-best 3 Northeast Association Titles (1983, 1986 & 1987) and have appeared in 3 Super Series (1980, 1986 & 1987).

### Culture

#### Traditions

Mounds View is notable for having a real cannon that they fire as the Gunners enter every period & every time Mounds View scores.

### Boomer

Beginning in 1981, the Gunners have a mascot unlike any other in the MAHL. The first mascot in the league not to be a living thing (person or animal, live or costumed), Boomer is a red Civil War-era cannon situated in the back corner of the Gunners' home of Shoreview Arena.

Boomer's loud blast can be heard as the Gunners hit the ice every period & after every Gunners goal.
Columbia Heights Hussars

The **Columbia Heights Hussars** are a team of the Northeast Hockey Association, where they have played as a charter member since the league's inaugural 1982-83 season. Based in Columbia Heights, Minnesota, the Hussars play their home games at the 1,100-seat Columbia Heights Civic Center.

## History

Before joining the Northeast Association, the Hussars played their first 5 seasons (1978-1982) as a member of the East Metro Hockey League.

The Hussars name references Columbia Heights' Polish heritage and culture. Their namesake is the Winged Hussars, Polish cavalry soldiers that fought from the 16th to the 18th centuries, so named for the large wings on their backs.
The Lake Pepin Trophy

**Current Streak** | Skis, 1 (1988-present)

**The Lake Pepin Trophy** is a rivalry trophy awarded since 1985 to the winner of the season series between the Lake City Skis and the Wabasha Eagles of the Valley Hockey League. In years where the season series is tied, whichever team has scored more goals in their meetings wins the Trophy.

Currently, Lake City holds the Trophy, having won it back in 1988 to tie the all-time trophy series, 2-2.

## Rivalry Facts

Both the Skis and Eagles were 1975 Valley League expansion brethren, enjoying a fierce rivalry ever since.

The trophy's name honors both teams' location on the shores of Lake Pepin, the largest lake on the Mississippi River. Its design is a stylized figure meant to resemble a sailboat on a glass base.
Windom Woodpeckers

The **Windom Woodpeckers** are a team of the Blue Earth Hockey League, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1987-88 season. Based in Windom, Minnesota, the Woodpeckers play their home games at the 2,500-seat Windom Ice Arena.

## History

The Woodpeckers are named after the bird native to the area, specifically the Pileated Woodpecker as depicted in their logo.

### Culture

#### Traditions

Windom has been playing "The Woodpecker Song" by The Andrews Sisters after every home win since their inaugural 1988 season. Fans sing along, yelling *"Ho-ho-ho, ho, ho-ho-ho, ho!"*

### Woody

Since their inception, the Woodpeckers have been represented by a body-costumed mascot named Woody, a six-foot-tall black, red and white Pileated Woodpecker. Known for his passion for the game, Woody can be seen "flying" around the ice prior to all Woodpeckers home games at Windom Ice Arena.
Morris Mules

The **Morris Mules** are a team of the Central Hockey Association, where they have played as a charter member since the league's inaugural 1987-88 season. Based in Morris, Minnesota, the Mules play their home games at the 500-seat Morris Ice Arena.

## History

Before joining the Central Association, the Mules played their first two seasons (1986-1987) as a member of the Granite Hockey League.

The Mules name represents the team's desire to emulate the beast of burden's strength and work ethic, in addition to its alliteration with the city's name.

### Culture

#### Mule Train

Since their inaugural season, Morris has blared Frankie Laine's "Mule Train" over the sound system after every Mule win while fans sing and clap along.

Lyrics:

> *"Mule train, (\*hyah, hyah\*), mule train, Clippity clopping over hill and plain, Seems as how they'll never stop, Clippity clop, clippity clop, Clippity, clippity, clippity, clippity, Clippity clopping along*
>
>
> *There's a plug of chaw tobaccy for a rancher in Corona, A guitar for a cowboy way out in Arizona, A dress of calico for a pretty Navajo, Get along mule, get along*
>
>
> *Mule train, (\*hyah, hyah\*), mule train, Clippity clopping over mile and chain, Soon their gonna reach the top, Clippity clop, clippity clop, Clippity, clippity, clippity, clippity, Clippity clopping along*
>
>
> *There's some cotton thread and needle, For the folks who's way out yonder, A shovel for a miner who left his home to wander, Some rheumatism pills for the settlers in the hills, Get along mule, get along*
>
>
> *Mule train, (\*hyah, hyah\*), mule train, Clippity clopping through the rain, They'll keep goin' to the top, Clippity clop, clippity clop, Clippity, clippity, clippity, clippity, Clippity clopping along*
>
>
>
> *There's a letter full of sadness, And it's black around the border, A pair of boots for someone, Who had them made to order, A bible in the pack for the Reverend Mr. Black, Get along mule, get along, Get along mule, get along"*
>
>

### Jack

Beginning in 1986, the Mules have a body-costumed mascot named Jack, a green and red mule. Known for his enthusiasm in cheering on the Mules, Jack can be seen in the stands at all their home games at Morris Ice Arena.

### Season-By-Season Results

 1987
 1988
 1989
Roseau Stars

The **Roseau Stars** are a team of the Northland Hockey League, where they have played as a charter member since the league's inaugural 1946-47 season. Based in Roseau, Minnesota, the Stars play their home games at the 3,000-seat Roseau Memorial Arena.

## History

The Stars get their name from Roseau's nickname as the "North Star City."

Before joining the Northland League, the Stars played their inaugural 1946 season as a member of the Iron Range Hockey League.

The Stars are the most-decorated team in the Northland League, having won 3 Kellogg Cups (1947, 1964 & 1970) and a league-best 12 Northland League Titles, as well as appearing in 12 Super Series.

Many have speculated that the NHL's Minnesota North Stars were named and styled after the Roseau Stars, such speculation fueled by Roseau's history of success and both teams' similar color scheme. Neither team has confirmed nor denied these rumors.

### Culture

#### Traditions

Roseau is known as one of, if not the, toughest places to play in all of the MAHL. No team has a better winning percentage at home all-time than the Stars do at Roseau Memorial Arena. A massive part of this home ice advantage comes from the Green Army, the Stars supporters. Fans are known to pack the arena, as well as visiting rinks, in a sea of green.

The Stars have entered to "Baba O'Riley" by The Who since 1972, & have played Prince's "Baby I'm A Star" to celebrate victories since 1984.

### Rivalry Trophies

#### The Victory Bell

The Stars' archrivals are the Warroad Lakers, against whom they compete for The Victory Bell, decided by the winner of each season series (or, when the season series is tied, who scored more goals between the two teams). The rivalry is considered by many to be the fiercest in all of the MAHL with both towns treating each game against each other like a holiday.

Each half of the Bell is painted in the two teams' colors; one half in the Stars' green and gold and the other in the Lakers' blue and red. The winning team displays their side of the Bell for as long as it's in their possession.

Currently, the Stars hold the Bell, having won it back in 1985 and holding it the following four years. The Stars lead the all-time trophy series, 23-17.

### Retired Numbers

* **3** - C Matt Baumgartner (1946-1959): Known as "Boomer," led the Stars to five Northland League titles and the 1947 Kellogg Cup, became the Stars' head coach after his retirement, where he has led the Stars to two more Cups (1964 & 1970), five more Northland League titles and eight Super Series.
* **9** - RW William Soosi (1963-1967): 1963 Tschida Trophy winner, led the Stars to the 1964 Kellogg Cup, two Northland League titles and three Super Series. Drafted in 1967 by the NHL's Minnesota North Stars.
* **12** - C Isaac Broten (1966-1988): 1970 Tschida Trophy winner, led the Stars to the 1970 Kellogg Cup, four Northland League titles and ten Super Series. Retired as the MAHL's all-time leading goal scorer (821 goals).
St. Peter Governors

The **St. Peter Governors** are a team of the Blue Earth Hockey League, where they have played as a charter member since the league's inaugural 1964-65 season. Based in St. Peter, Minnesota, the Governors play their home games at the 1,500-seat Lund Arena.

## History

The Governors name honors the five St. Peter natives who became Governor of Minnesota (1 Territorial Governor and 4 State Governors).

The Govs have won 3 Blue Earth League Titles (1975, 1976 & 1985) and appeared in 1 Super Series (1976).

### Culture

#### Annie's Song

St. Peter fans have been singing "Annie's Song" by John Denver during the second intermission of every home game since their move into Lund Arena in 1975.

The song was written by Denver for his wife at the time, Annie Martell Denver. Annie was born and raised in St. Peter.

It is tradition for Governor fans to lock arm in arm and sway side to side while singing the entire song. The tune is used as a sort of love song for the hometown team and has become synonymous with the Govs.

Lyrics:

> *"You fill up my senses, Like a night in a forest, Like the mountains in springtime, Like a walk in the rain, Like a storm in the desert, Like a sleepy blue ocean, You fill up my senses, Come fill me again*
>
>
> *Come let me love you, Let me give my life to you, Let me drown in your laughter, Let me die in your arms, Let me lay down beside you, Let me always be with you, Come let me love you, Come love me again*
>
>
> *Let me give my life to you, Come let me love you, Come love me again*
>
>
>
> *You fill up my senses, Like a night in a forest, Like the mountains in springtime, Like a walk in the rain, Like a storm in the desert, Like a sleepy blue ocean, You fill up my senses, Come fill me again"*
>
>

### Rivalry Trophies

#### Minnesota River Rivalry

The Governors compete against their rivals the Mankato Moose in the Minnesota River Rivalry, decided by the winner of each regular season series (or, when the season series is tied, who scored more goals between the two teams). The Governors currently hold the trophy, having won it in the inaugural season in 1985.

Currently, the Moose hold the trophy, having won it for the first time in 1986 and holding it the following two years. The Moose lead the all-time trophy series, 3-1.
The Axe

**Current Streak** | Moose, 3 (1987-present)

**The Axe** is a rivalry trophy awarded since 1977 to the winner of the season series between the Coleraine Trout and Grand Rapids Moose of the Iron Range Hockey League. In years where the season series is tied, whichever team has scored more goals in their meetings wins the Axe.

Each half of the Axe's head is painted in the two teams' colors; one half in the Trout's Itasca blue and the other in the Moose's orange. The winning team displays their side of the axe for as long as they are in possession of it.

Currently, Grand Rapids holds the Axe, having won it back in 1987 and defending it the following 2 years to take the 7-6 lead in the trophy series.

## Rivalry Facts

The Moose outpace the Brookies in Kellogg Cups (3-0), Iron Range league titles (11-2) and Super Series (7-1).

The Axe series has been intense from the beginning. Moose captain and two-time Tschida Trophy winner Didi Miller suffered a career-ending knee injury during a Trout-Moose game in Grand Rapids when a race for the puck turned into a multi-player pile-up with a Brookie landing on Miller's knee.
The Battle for Nininger

**Current Streak** | Rivermen, 1 (1988-present)

**The Battle for Nininger** is a rivalry series contested since 1984 between the Cottage Grove Yellow Jackets and the Hastings Rivermen of the St. Croix Hockey League. Nininger is a ghost town located in between Cottage Grove and Hastings; as such, the winner of the season series gets to "claim" Nininger for their city and is awarded a trophy consisting of a sword sticking out of a stand. In years where the season series is tied, whichever team has scored more goals in their meetings claims Nininger and wins the trophy.

Currently, Hastings claims Nininger, having won it back in the 1988 Battle after a year in Cottage Grove's possession. Hastings leads the all-time trophy series, 4-1.

## Rivalry Facts

Since both teams began play in 1972 as charter members of the South Metro Hockey League, the Yellow Jackets and Rivermen have been perennial contenders. With both teams' move to help form the St. Croix League, their rivalry has only grown stronger, inspiring this rivalry to claim Nininger as part of their respective strong fanbases.

Although neither team has ever won a Kellogg Cup, the Rivermen outpace the Jackets in league Titles won (8-3 overall, 7-2 St. Croix League), while both teams are tied in Super Series appearances (2-2).
City of Lakes Trophy

**Current Streak** | Millers, 5 (1984-present)

The **City of Lakes Trophy** is a rivalry trophy awarded since 1981 to the team who finishes the highest in the Twin Cities Hockey League standings among the the 4 teams based in Minneapolis, Minnesota; the Minneapolis Bakers, Minneapolis Millers, Nokomis Skippers and Twin Cities Vulcans. A stylized trophy was made to resemble a sailboat and sun. It is the 3rd rivalry trophy in the MAHL to be contested among more than 2 teams, after the Quad City Trophy in the Iron Range Hockey League and The Agate in the Lake Superior Hockey League.

Currently, the Millers hold the Trophy, having won it for the first time in 1984 and holding it the following 4 years to take the 5-3-0-0 lead in the all-time trophy series, with the Bakers and Skippers not yet having won it as of 1988.

## Rivalry Facts

Initially, the rivalry was just between the Bakers, Millers and Vulcans; however, with Nokomis joining the league for the 1987-88 season, the Skippers were admitted to the trophy series beginning with their inaugural season.

## Series Standings

 **Twin Cities Vulcans** | 3
 **Minneapolis Bakers** | 0
 **Nokomis Skippers** | 0
Waseca Bluegills

The **Waseca Bluegills** are a team of the Blue Earth Hockey League, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1980-81 season. Based in Waseca, Minnesota, the Bluegills play their home games at the 500-seat Waseca Arena.

## History

The Bluegills are named after one of the most commonly-caught fish in Clear Lake (and in fact, all of Minnesota).

### Culture

#### Fishin' in the Dark

Bluegill fans have been singing "Fishin' in the Dark" by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band during the second intermission of every home game since the 1987 season.

Lyrics:

> *"Lazy yellow moon comin' up tonight, Shinin' through the trees, Crickets are singin' and lightning bugs, Are floatin' on the breeze, baby get ready*
>
>
> *Across the field where the creek turns back, By the old stump row, I'm gonna take you to a special place, That nobody knows baby get ready*
>
>
> *You and me go fishin' in the dark, Lyin' on our backs and countin' the stars, Where the cool grass grows, Down by the river in the full moonlight, We'll be fallin' in love in the middle of the night, Just movin' slow, Stayin' the whole night through, It feels so good to be with you*
>
>
> *Spring is almost over and the summer's come, And the days are gettin' long, Waited all winter for the time to be right, Just to take you along, baby get ready*
>
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> *And it don't matter if we sit forever, And the fish don't bite, Jump in the river and cool ourselves, From the heat of the night, baby get ready*
>
>
> *You and me go fishin' in the dark, Lyin' on our backs and countin' the stars, Where the cool grass grows, Down by the river in the full moonlight, We'll be fallin in love in the middle of the night, Just movin' slow, Stayin' the whole night through, It feels so good to be with you*
>
>
> *You and me go fishin', (You and me go fishin in the dark), In the dark lyin' on our backs and countin' the stars, Where the cool grass grows, down by the river, (Down by the light), In the full moonlight we'll be fallin' in love in the middle of the night, (We'll be fallin in love), Just movin' slow*
>
>
>
> *You and me go fishin', (You and me go fishin in the dark), In the dark lyin' on our backs and countin' the stars, Where the cool grass grows, Down by the river in the full moonlight, (Down by the light), We'll be fallin' in love in the middle of the night..."*
>
>
Eveleth Redbirds

The **Eveleth Redbirds** are a team of the Iron Range Hockey League, where they have played as a charter member since the league's inaugural 1915-16 season. Based in Eveleth, Minnesota, the Redbirds play their home games at the 3,000-seat Eveleth Hippodrome.

## History

From their inaugural season in 1916 until 1955, the Redbirds were known as the **Eveleth Reds**. However, as the United States was undergoing the Red Scare (largely fueled by the tactics of Senator Joseph McCarthy), various opposing fans taunted the Reds by calling them Communists and directing various anti-Communist chants at them. To nip said comparisons in the bud, the team changed their name to the Eveleth Redbirds in 1956, after the cardinal which has been featured in their logo since 1950.

The Redbirds are perhaps the most decorated team in the MAHL, holding the MAHL record for most Kellogg Cups won (7) and the Iron Range League record for most League Titles won (17) as well as appearing in 4 Super Series.

### Culture

#### Traditions

Eveleth has used Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Free Bird" as their entrance song since 1972. Players hit the ice as the crowd sings *"Wont you fly high, Free bird, Yeah!"*

The Birds most well known tradition is the color red. Redbird fans are notorious for being decked out in all red to show support for their team.

### Rivalry Trophies

#### Quad City Trophy

The Redbirds' archrivals are the Virginia Royals, for whom they, together with fellow St. Louis County teams Chisholm Flames and Hibbing Greyhounds, compete for the Quad City Trophy, awarded to the team which finishes the highest in the standings at the end of the season. The trophy series began in 1960, with the Redbirds finally winning the trophy in 1972.

Currently, the Royals hold the Trophy, winning it back in 1989. The Royals lead the trophy series, 14-9-6-1.

### Retired Numbers

* **2** - C Marco Palazzari (1947-1953): 1952 Tschida Trophy winner, led the Reds to five Iron Range League titles and two Kellogg Cups. Signed in 1954 by the NHL's Detroit Red Wings, whom he would lead to two Stanley Cups in his first two seasons with the team.
* **12** - RW Robert Mariucci (1945-1963): Led the Reds to six Iron Range League titles and two Kellogg Cups, remains the longest tenured player in Reds/Redbirds history.
The Hubcap Trophy

**Current Streak** | Zephyrs, 1 (1988-present)

**The Hubcap Trophy** is a rivalry trophy awarded since 1988 to the winner of the season series between the Luverne Flying Dutchmen and the Worthington Zephyrs of the Southwest Hockey Association. The Trophy is a hubcap from the early '70s (a reference to both teams' founding era), and the team that wins the Hubcap each year gets to paint it in their team color (Flying Dutchmen orange or Zephyrs green). In years where the season series is tied, whichever team has scored more goals in their meetings wins the Trophy.

Currently, Worthington holds the Trophy, having won the inaugural trophy series in 1988.

## Rivalry Facts

Although neither team has ever won a Kellogg Cup, the Flying Dutchmen outpace the Zephyrs in Southwest Association Titles (1-0), while the Zephs outpace the Clogs in Super Series appearances (1-0).
The Bone

**Current Streak** | Bears, 3 (1986-present)

**The Bone** is a rivalry trophy awarded since 1979 to the winner of the season series between the 2 teams based in Bloomington, Minnesota; the Bloomington Bears and the Bloomington West Terriers of the West Metro Hockey League. In years where the season series is tied, whichever team has scored more goals in their meetings wins the Bone.

Currently, the Bears hold the Bone, having won the it for the first time in 1986 and holding it the following 2 years. The Terriers lead the all-time trophy series, 7-3.

## Rivalry Facts

The Bone ties in to both teams' mascots, known for eating their meat right down to the bone (and, in the Terriers' case, for playing with and chewing on the bone itself).

Although neither team has ever won a Kellogg Cup, the Terrible Terriers outpace the B's in West Metro League Titles (2-0) and Super Series (1-0).
Neebing Nor'Westers

The **Neebing Nor'Westers** are a team of the Lake Superior Hockey League, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1985-86 season. Based in Neebing, Ontario, Canada, the Nor'Westers play their home games at the 800-seat Neebing Memorial Arena.

## History

The Nor'Westers are the MAHL's seventh Canadian team, as well as its fourth from Ontario, preceded by their Lake Superior League archrivals the Thunder Bay Giants and the Northland Hockey League's Fort Frances Trappers and Kenora Muskrats and followed by the Northland League's Dryden Bulls.

The Nor'Westers name references the Nor'Wester Mountains in the city. Their logo and color scheme are inspired by those of the NHL's Minnesota North Stars (though in darker shades).

### Culture

#### Traditions

Nor'Wester fans are known for always wearing green, turning every game at the Neebing Memorial Arena into a green out. Neebing is also notorious for traveling very well, bringing the green wherever the 'Westers go.

### Season-By-Season Results

 1987
 1988
 1989
Blackduck Mallards

The **Blackduck Mallards** are a team of the Itasca Hockey Association, where they have played as a charter member since the league's inaugural 1987-88 season. Based in Blackduck, Minnesota, the Mallards play their home games at a the 750-seat Blackduck Ice Arena.

## History

Before joining the Itasca Association, the Mallards played their first 25 seasons (1963-1987) as a member of the Northland Hockey League.

The Mallards namesake comes from their city's name.

### Culture

#### Traditions

Blackduck fans are known for bringing duck calls to games and using them as a noisemaker, much to the annoyance of their rivals.

Every home game since 1980 has started with the Mallards taking the ice to the tune of ACDC's "Back In Black" with fans singing along and adding Duck to the end of the chorus. *"Yes, I'm Back In Black...Duck!"*

### Rivalry Trophies

#### Beltrami County Cup

The Mallards compete against their in-county rivals the Bemidji Blue Ox and Red Lake Moccasins for the Beltrami County Cup, awarded to the team which finishes the highest in the standings at the end of the season.

Currently, the Blue Ox hold the Cup, having won the inaugural trophy series in 1984 and holding it the following five years. Bemidji leads the all-time series 6-0-0.
The Miners Hard Hat

**Current Streak** | Miners, 1 (1989-present)

**The Miners Hard Hat** is a rivalry trophy awarded since 1950 to the winner of the season series between the Ely Black Bears and Tower-Soudan Miners of the Iron Range Hockey League. In years where the season series is tied, whichever team has scored more goals in their meetings wins the Hard Hat.

Currently, Tower-Soudan holds The Miners Hard Hat, having won it back in 1989 after two years in Ely's possession. However, the Black Bears lead the all-time trophy series 20-11.

## Rivalry Facts

Both teams' hometowns are mining towns, which made the Hard Hat a natural choice to serve as their rivalry's trophy. From 1964-1972, the Hard Had was not played for because of the Miners ceasing operations after the Soudan Mine closed.

Ely outpaces Tower-Soudan in Kellogg Cups (5-0) and Iron Range League titles (9-2), with both teams tied in Super Series appearances (1-1). The Black Bears and Miners have met 3 times in the playoffs, with the Black Bears winning 2 of those meetings.
Coon Rapids Bandits

The **Coon Rapids Bandits** are a team of the North Metro Hockey League, where they have played as a charter member since the league's inaugural 1971-72 season. Based in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, the Bandits play their home games at the 1,000-seat Coon Rapids Civic Arena.

## History

The Bandits name and Raccoon logo references the city's name.

Before joining the North Metro League, the Bandits played their first 3 seasons (1969-1971) as a member of the Twin Cities Hockey League and its West Division.

The Bandits have won 2 North Metro League Titles (1986 & 1988) and appeared in 1 Super Series (1984).

### Culture

#### Traditions

Bandit fans are called "The Black Hole" for their tendency to dress themselves in black from head to toe on Coon Rapids game days.

#### The Bandit

Coon Rapids fans have locked arm in arm and sang Jerry Reed's "The Bandit" during the second intermission of every Bandit home game since 1977.

Lyrics:

> *"They call you the Bandit, an outlaw untamed, Shackled only by freedom, you wear no man's chain, Some say they despise you, well, maybe they do, But deep down inside them, I bet they wish they were you*
>
>
> *Bandit, you're reckless, and you live much too hard, Bandit, you're the joker in the deal of the cards, You're a legend to the old man, a hero to the child, Bandit steal a lady's heart with only a smile*
>
>
>
> *They call you the Bandit, They call you the Bandit, They call you the Bandit, They call you the Bandit"*
>
>

### Rivalry Trophies

#### The War Drum

The Bandits compete against their archrivals the Anoka Warriors for The War Drum, decided by the winner of each season series (or, when the season series is tied, who scored more goals between the two teams). The team that holds the Drum is known to bang on it throughout games against the other while in possession of it.

Currently, the Warriors hold the Drum, having won it back in 1989. The Warriors lead the all-time trophy series 5-3.
Spring Lake Park Prowlers

The **Spring Lake Park Prowlers** are a team of the Northeast Hockey Association, where they have played as a charter member since the league's inaugural 1982-83 season. Based in Spring Lake Park, Minnesota, the Prowlers play their home games at the 4,000-seat Columbia Ice Arena in nearby Fridley, sharing a home ice with their rivals the Fridley Foxes.

## History

Spring Lake Park has yet to qualify for the Kellogg Cup playoffs in any season.

### Culture

#### Traditions

Spring Lake Park has been playing "Man On The Prowl" by Queen since 1984 to celebrate wins.
Mankato Moose

The **Mankato Moose** are a team of the Blue Earth Hockey League, where they have played as a charter member since the league's inaugural 1964-65 season. Based in Mankato, Minnesota, the Moose play their home games at the 1,250-seat All Seasons Arena.

## History

Before joining the Blue Earth League, the Moose were a member of the Valley Hockey League from their founding in 1957 until 1964.

The Moose have won 10 League Titles (1 in the Valley League & a league-best 9 in the Blue Earth League) and have appeared in 8 Super Series.

### Culture

#### Antlers Up

Mankato fans have created a hand sign to show their support for the Moose. The signal is called "Antlers Up" and you'll be sure to see fans making it whenever Mankato is in town.

Fans put both hands up with all ten fingers extended. The thumbs are then placed on both sides of the head, mimicking the look of a pair of moose antlers.

#### In Heaven There Is No Beer

The Mankato Moose are well known for their love of the drinking song "In Heaven There Is No Beer". Fans sing and clap along to the tune after every period (unless the game is over).

Lyrics:

> *"In Heaven there is no beer, That's why we drink it here, And when we're gone from here, All our friends will be drinking all that beer*
>
>
> *La, la, la, la, la, la, La, la, la, la, la, la, La, la, la, la, la, la, La, la, la, la, la, la, la, la*
>
>
> *In Heaven there is no beer, That's why we drink it here, And when we're gone from here, All our friends will be drinking all that beer*
>
>
>
> *La, la, la, la, la, la, La, la, la, la, la, la, La, la, la, la, la, la, La, la, la, la, la, la, la, la"*
>
>

### Rivalry Trophies

#### Kato Cup

The Moose compete against their rivals the North Mankato River Bats for the Kato Cup, decided by the winner of each season series (or, when the season series is tied, who scored more goals between the two teams).

Currently, the Moose hold the Cup, having won it back in 1986. The Moose lead the all-time trophy series, 5-1.

#### Minnesota River Rivalry

In addition, the Moose compete against their rivals the St. Peter Governors in the Minnesota River Rivalry, decided by the winner of each regular season series (or, when the season series is tied, who scored more goals between the two teams).

Currently, the Moose hold the trophy, having won it for the first time in 1986 and holding it the following two years. The Moose lead the all-time trophy series, 3-1.
Sioux Cup

**Current Streak** | Packers, 9 (1980-present)

The **Sioux Cup** is a rivalry trophy awarded since 1976 to the winner of the season series between the Sioux City Shockers and the Sioux Falls Packers of the Southwest Hockey Association. In years where the season series is tied, whichever team has scored more goals in their meetings wins the Cup.

Currently, Sioux Falls holds the Cup, having won it back in 1980 and holding it the following 8 years to take the 11-2 lead in the all-time trophy series.

## History

Although neither team has ever won the Kellogg Cup, the Packers outpace the Shockers in Super Series (8-2) and Southwest Association Titles (10-0). The teams have meet in the playoffs twice, both meetings won by the Hogs.
Deer River Bucks

The **Deer River Bucks** are a team of the Iron Range Hockey League, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1987-88 season. Based in Deer River, Minnesota, the Bucks play their home games at the 800-seat Deer River Ice Arena.

## History

The Bucks name is a reference to the town's name.

### Culture

#### Traditions

Deer River has mounted set of Deer Antlers above their locker room door that Buck players touch on their way to the ice for good luck.

### Bucky

Since their inception, the Bucks have been represented by a body-costumed mascot named Bucky, a red buck with black antlers. Bucky can be seen at all Bucks home games at the Deer River Ice Arena, as well as some away games against the Grand Rapids Moose and Coleraine Trout.
St. Cloud Storm

The **St. Cloud Storm** are a team of the Granite Hockey League, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1957-58 season. Based in St. Cloud, Minnesota, the Storm play their home games at the 2,000-seat Municipal Athletic Complex.

## History

The Storm are primarily made up of players from the west side of St. Cloud. The MAC, their home rink, is also on the west side of town.

### Rivalry Trophies

#### The Chunk of Granite

The Storm's in-city rivals are the St. Cloud Bearcats, against whom they compete for The Chunk of Granite, decided by the winner of each season series (or, when the season series is tied, who scored more goals between the two teams). The Chunk is an homage to St. Cloud's nickname of the "Granite City" (which is also the namesake for the Granite League).

Currently, the Bearcats hold the Chunk, having won it back in 1988. The Cats lead the all-time series, 15-1.
Chisholm Flames

The **Chisholm Flames** are a team of the Iron Range Hockey League, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1920-21 season. Based in Chisholm, Minnesota, the Flames play their home games at the 1,250-seat Chisholm City Sports Arena.

## History

The Flames name references a 1908 forest fire that destroyed the city of Chisholm, though thankfully with no fatalities (largely because of citizens evacuating by running into the lakes).

The Flames have appeared in 1 Super Series (1981).

### Culture

#### Traditions

Chisholm is led onto the ice every game by a local youth player carrying a lit torch to center ice as teams take the ice.

Fans of the Flames are known as "The C of Red" in ode to them wearing burnt red to every game, turning the stands into a sea of red.

The Flames have used "Great Balls Of Fire" as their victory song since 1958 with the entire crowd sticking around to sing *"Goodness, Gracious, Great Balls of Fire!"* after home wins.

### Rivalry Trophies

#### Quad City Trophy

The Flames compete with their archrivals the Hibbing Greyhounds along with the Virginia Royals and Eveleth Redbirds for the Quad City Trophy, awarded every year to the team which finishes highest among them in the Iron Range League standings.

Currently, the Royals hold the Trophy, having won it back in 1989. The Royals lead the all-time trophy series at 14-9-6-1.
Shorewood Sharks

The **Shorewood Sharks** are a team of the Hennepin Hockey League, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1988-89 season. Based in Shorewood, Minnesota, the Sharks play their home games at the 750-seat Shorewood Community Center.

## History

The Sharks name alliterates with the town's name and ties into the town's waterside location (on the shore of Lake Minnetonka).

### Culture

#### The Chomp

Shorewood fans are known for doing the "Chop" during Sharks games. There are two different types of the Chomp; one as the Sharks are going on the powerplay & one as a clap/chant to motivate the team.

When the Sharks draw a penalty, the theme of the movie *Jaws* plays over the speakers while fans make a chomping motion at the penalized player until puck drop.

The other version of the Chomp comes during play and is a slow clap. Fans clap their hands like a pair of jaws, getting progressively faster and faster until it is just applause.

### Bruce

Since their inception, the Sharks have been represented by a body-costumed mascot named Bruce, a teal and white shark with gray eyes. Bruce can be seen cheering on the Sharks at all home games at the Shorewood Community Center.
Steinbach Barbarians

The **Steinbach Barbarians** are a team of the Northland Hockey League, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1957-58 season. Based in Steinbach, Manitoba, Canada, the Barbarians play their home games at the 1,250-seat Centennial Arena.

## History

The Barbarians name honors the German immigrants who founded the city and continue to have a strong presence in it (specifically their ancestors, the old Germanic barbarians), as does their color scheme of black, red and gold (the colors of the modern German flag). In addition, their logo pays homage to the numerous windmills in Steinbach dating back to 1877.

The Barbs are the MAHL's third Canadian team and its first from the province of Manitoba (preceding their archrivals the Winnipeg Monarchs and the St. James Stags, Morden Monsters and Winkler Wranglers).

So far, the Barbs have won 2 Northland League Titles (1976 & 1978) and appeared in 2 Super Series (1971 & 1972).

### Culture

#### Traditions

The Barbarians have a 10 foot replica Windmill behind the goal the Barbs shoot at in the 1st and 3rd. After every Steinbach goal, someone comes and pulls on the propellor, spinning it in celebration.

Steinbach plays "99 Red Balloons" by Nena during the second intermission of every Barbarian home game, with fans singing along.

### Rivalry Trophies

#### The Maple Leaf Trophy

The Barbarians compete with their provincial rivals the Monarchs for The Maple Leaf Trophy, decided by the winner of each season series (or, when the season series is tied, who scored more goals between the two teams).

Currently, the Monarchs hold the Trophy, having won it back in 1985 and holding it the following four years. The Bruisers lead the all-time trophy series 14-9.