recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Ham Lake Hammers

The **Ham Lake Hammers** are a team of the Northeast Hockey Association, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1984-85 season. Based in Ham Lake, Minnesota, the Hammers play their home games at the 900-seat East Bethel Ice Arena in nearby East Bethel, sharing a home ice with their archrivals the East Bethel Cranes.

## History

The Hammers name honors the city and area's large Scandanavian population and plays on the towns' name.

The Hammers are the first (and as of 1989, only) team in the MAHL to use pink in their color scheme.

### Culture

#### Traditions

"Hammer Down" is the official team motto of the Ham Lake Hammers and has been fully embraced by the team and their fans. You'll hear the call and answer *"Hammer...Down!"* chant all night on Ham Lake game days.
Thief River Falls Railers

The **Thief River Falls Railers** are a team of the Red River Hockey League, where they have played as a charter member since the league's inaugural 1961-62 season. Based in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, the Railers play their home games at the 3,500-seat Thief River Falls Sports Arena.

## History

The Railers are named in honor of the famous Thief River Falls SOO station, which has become a center of business and growth for the city. In fact, SOO Lines serves as the team's main sponsor.

Before joining the Red River League, the Railers played their first fourteen seasons (1948-1961) as a member of the Northland Hockey League, before leaving to form the Red River League because of increasing travel distances in the Northland League.

The Railers have won 1 Kellogg Cup (1963), 6 League Titles (1 in their final season in the Northland League (1961) and 5 in each of their first seasons in the Red River League), and have appeared in 5 Super Series.

### Culture

#### Traditions

The Railers have used Ozzy Osbourne's hit "Crazy Train" as an unofficial team anthem since its release in 1980. The song is used for player entrances before the game, and is also played to hype up the crowd if Thief is winning with under five minutes to play.

Thief River uses an authentic Train Horn from a retired locomotive. The booming horn blares after every Railer goal, as the Railers take the ice every period, and at the end of every period.

#### All Aboard!

Perhaps no team in the MAHL has a slogan as instantly recognizable or iconic at Thief River Falls and "All Aboard!" It dates back to the 1959 Kellogg Cup Playoffs which saw the Railers on the road against Mankato in the opening round. Tied 1-1 after regulation, the game went to overtime and here is the description of what happened next according to the *T*hief River Falls Times

> *"A couple minutes into the overtime period Thief River got a lucky bounce in the neutral zone sending them on an odd man rush which was capitalized on by Jack Smith who immediately took off towards his bench while reportedly yelling "ALL ABOARD!" and pumping his right arm as if he was pulling a train horn."*
>
>

Since then, the phrase "All Aboard" and the subsequent horn pulling arm motion have become synonymous with Thief River Falls and can be heard all over on Railer game days.

### Rivalry Trophies

#### The Train Whistle

The Railers compete against their archrivals the Crookston Kings for The Train Whistle, 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 Kings hold the Whistle, having won it for the first time in 1989 to tie the trophy series at 1-1.

### Retired Numbers

* **9** - RW Jack Smith (1955-1973): Played for the Railers for 19 seasons with twin brother Zach, leading them to 6 League Titles, 5 Super Series, and 1 Kellogg Cup (1963). Originated the "All Aboard!" battle cry & arm movement.
* **10** - LW Zach Smith (1955-1973): Played for the Railers for 19 seasons with twin brother Jack, leading them to 6 League Titles, 5 Super Series, and 1 Kellogg Cup (1963).
Farmington Reapers

The **Farmington Reapers** are a team of the South Metro Hockey League, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1985-86 season. Based in Farmington, Minnesota, the Reapers play their home games at the 1,000-seat Farmington Civic Arena.

## History

The Reapers name references the town's agricultural roots. With their identity being a mix between farming and the Grimm Reaper.

### Culture

#### Traditions

Farmington fans are known for singing along to Blue Öyster Cult's "(Don’t Fear) The Reaper" during the second intermission of all Reaper home games.

### Season-By-Season Results

 1987
 1988
Richfield Roosters

The **Richfield Roosters** 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 in Richfield, Minnesota, the Roosters play their home games at the 1,300-seat Richfield Ice Arena.

## History

The Roosters have won 1 Kellogg Cup (1980), 3 West Metro League Titles (1977, 1980 & 1981) and appeared in 4 Super Series.

### Culture

#### Traditions

Richfield fans have been doing the "Chicken Dance" at Rooster games since 1982. The thing is, they only do it when the Cocks are winning with under 5 minutes to play. The dance and song are used to taunt opposing teams and fans, rubbing in the fact that Richfield is winning.

### Brock the Cock

Beginning in 1975, the Roosters have a body-costumed mascot named Brock the Cock, a rooster in the team colors of yellow and red. A left-handed stick-holder, Brock can be seen at all the Roosters' home games at Richfield Ice Arena, usually pulling the on-ice shenanigans he is known for.

### Rivalry Trophies

#### The Megaphone

The Roosters compete with their archrivals the Edina Cake Eaters for The Megaphone, 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).

The Megaphone is painted in the Roosters' red with a gold block "RICHFIELD" on one side and the Cake Eaters' black with a gold block "EDINA" on the other, with the winning team displays their side of the Megaphone for as long as they are in possession of it. The idea was first proposed by a Roosters player and a Michigan State University alumnus, who was inspired by the Megaphone trophy his Spartans football team competes for against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

Currently, the Cake Eaters hold the Megaphone, having won it back in 1986. The Eaters lead the all-time trophy series, 7-4.
Silver Bay Beavers

The **Silver Bay Beavers** are a team of the Lake Superior Hockey League, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1966-67 season. Based in Silver Bay, Minnesota, the Beavers play their home games at the 2,500-seat Silver Bay Arena.

## History

The Beavers are named to honor the town's original name of Beaver Bay. Their color scheme is a tribute to the taconite ore which made Silver Bay the town it is now, as well as the orange moss which clings to the dark gray rocks on Lake Superior's bays.

The Beavers have won 1 Lake Superior League Title and appeared in 1 Super Series (both in 1977).

### Culture

#### Sweet Caroline

Silver Bay has a unique entrance as teams return for the third period. Beaver fans come together arm in arm and sway side to side while singing the Neil Diamond classic "Sweet Caroline".

The crowd sings the entire song, with some added chants, before the players return to the ice about halfway through the song.

Lyrics:

> *"Where it began, I can't begin to knowing, But then I know it's growing strong, Was in the spring, And spring became the summer, Who'd have believed you'd come along*
>
>
> *Hands, touching hands, Reaching out, touching me, touching you*
>
>
> *Sweet Caroline (Bum! Bum! Bum!), Good times never seemed so good (So good! So good! So good!), I've been inclined (Bum! Bum! Bum!), To believe they never would, But now I*
>
>
> *Look at the night and it don't seem so lonely, We filled it up with only two, And when I hurt, Hurting runs off my shoulders, How can I hurt when holding you*
>
>
> *One, touching one, Reaching out, touching me, touching you*
>
>
> *Sweet Caroline (Bum! Bum! Bum!), Good times never seemed so good (So good! So good! So good!), I've been inclined (Bum! Bum! Bum!), To believe they never would, Oh no, no*
>
>
>
> *Sweet Caroline (Bum! Bum! Bum!), Good times never seemed so good (So good! So good! So good!), Sweet Caroline (Bum! Bum! Bum!), I believe they never could, Sweet Caroline (Bum! Bum! Bum!), Good times never seemed so good (So good! So good! So good!)"*
>
>

### Rivalry Trophies

#### The Agate

The Beavers' main rivals are the Grand Marais Explorers, Lutsen Mountaineers 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.
Blaine Spartans

The **Blaine Spartans** 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 Blaine, Minnesota, the Spartans play their home games at the 800-seat Blaine Civic Center, sharing a home ice with their rivals the Lino Lakes Herons.

## History

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

The Spartans have won 2 Northeast Association Titles (1984 & 1988) and appeared in 3 Super Series (1983, 1984 & 1988).

### Spartacus

For the 1972-73 season, the Spartans have introduced a mascot named Spartacus, a person dressed in Spartan gear in the team's crimson-and-gold color scheme. Wearing a Spartan helmet and cape and wielding a sword and shield (engraved with a "B" for Blaine), Spartacus energizes the crowd at all Spartans home games.
Maplewood Retrievers

The **Maplewood Retrievers** are a team of the East Metro Hockey League, where they have played as a charter member since the league's inaugural 1971-72 season. Based in Maplewood, Minnesota, the Retrievers play their home games at the 3,400-seat Aldrich Arena.

## History

The Retrievers are named in honor of one of the players' pet Golden Retriever, who had passed away shortly before the team was founded.

The Retrievers have won a League-best 7 East Metro League Titles and appeared in 5 Super Series.

### Culture

#### Heart of Gold

Maplewood fans have joined together to sing Neil Young's "Heart of Gold" during the second intermission of every home game. The song is used as a love song for the team that many locals know by the Goldies.

Lyrics

> *"I want to live, I want to give, I've been a miner, For a heart of gold, It's these expressions, I never give, That keep me searching, For a heart of gold, And I'm getting old, Keep me searching, For a heart of gold, And I'm getting old*
>
>
> *I've been to Hollywood, I've been to Redwood, I crossed the ocean, For a heart of gold, I've been in my mind, It's such a fine line, That keeps me searching, For a heart of gold, And I'm getting old, Keeps me searching, For a heart of gold. And I'm getting old*
>
>
>
> *Keep me searching, For a heart of gold, You keep me searching, And I'm growing old, Keep me searching, For a heart of gold, I've been a miner, For a heart of gold"*
>
>

### Goldy

Beginning in 1981, the Goldies have a live mascot; a living female Golden Retriever named Goldy. The first female mascot in the MAHL, Goldy sports a green jacket with her name in gold on the side.

Goldy can be seen at all Retrievers home games at Aldrich Arena.

### Rivalry Trophies

#### The Wooden Barrel

The Retrievers' archrivals are the White Bear Lake Braves, against whom they compete for The Wooden Barrel, decided by the winner of each season series (or, when the season series is tied, who scored more goals between the two teams). The Barrel was chosen in honor of a sportswriter's words about how the budding rivals "roll out the barrel" every time they play each other.

Currently, the Retrievers hold the Barrel, having won it back in 1983 and successfully holding it the following six years. The Goldies lead the all-time trophy series, 10-6.
Wadena Devils

The **Wadena Devils** 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 Wadena, Minnesota, the Devils play their home games at the 800-seat Wadena Community Center.

## History

Before joining the Itasca Association, the Devils played their first two seasons as a member of the Granite Hockey League.

The Devils name was suggested shortly after the team chose red and white as its color scheme; the name quickly gained popularity and it stuck.

### Culture

#### Traditions

The Devils use the phrase "Forks Up" as their rallying cry, but they also have a hand sign to go with it. Wadena fans will throw their hand up with the pointer, middle, and pinky fingers up, creating a pitchfork with their fingers.

Since their inception in 1986, the Devils have used "Shout At The Devil" by Mötley Crüe as their entrance song. Fans sing along, yelling *"Shout, shout, shout!, Shout, shout, shout!, Shout at the devil!"* as the teams hit the ice.

### Season-By-Season Results

 1987
 1988
 1989
The Victory Bell

**Current Streak** | Stars, 5 (1985-present)

**The Victory Bell** is a rivalry trophy awarded since 1950 to the winner of the season series between the Roseau Stars and Warroad Lakers of the Northland Hockey League. In years where the season series is tied, whichever team has scored more goals in their meetings wins the Bell.

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

Currently, Roseau holds the Bell, having won it back in 1985 and holding it the following 4 years. The Stars lead the all-time trophy series, 23-17.

## Rivalry Facts

Roseau outpaces Warroad in Kellogg Cups (3-1), Northland League Titles (12-8) and Super Series appearances (12-8). In addition, the Stars have won 5 of their 7 playoff encounters with the Lakers.
New Brighton Polka

The **New Brighton Polka** 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 New Brighton, Minnesota, the Polka play their home games at the 750-seat New Brighton Civic Center.

## History

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

The Polka are named in honor of New Brighton's annual Polka Dance Party, which has taken place since 1892 to celebrate the city's Eastern European and German heritage.

### Culture

#### The Beer Barrel Polka

New Brighton Polka fans sing, clap, & dance along to the tune of the "Beer Barrel Polka" after every period and every Polka win.

The popular drinking song has been played at every New Brighton home game since their inception & has become synonymous with the team.

Lyrics:

> *"Roll out the barrel, We'll have a barrel of fun*
>
>
> *Roll out the barrel, we've got the blues on the run*
>
>
> *Zing Boom Terrara*
>
>
> *Ring out a song of good cheer*
>
>
> *Now it's time to roll the barrel*
>
>
> *For the gang's all here!*
>
>
>
>
> *Roll out the barrel, We'll have a barrel of fun*
>
>
> *Roll out the barrel, we've got the blues on the run*
>
>
> *Zing Boom Terrara*
>
>
> *Ring out a song of good cheer*
>
>
> *Now it's time to roll the barrel*
>
>
>
> *For the gang's all here!"*
>
>
Lakeville Admirals

The **Lakeville Admirals** are a team of the South Metro Hockey League, where they have played as a charter member since the league's inaugural 1971-72 season. Based in Lakeville, Minnesota, the Admirals play their home games at the 800-seat Lakeville Arena.

## History

The Admirals name is in reference the city's name and numerous lakes.

### Culture

#### Traditions

The Admirals return to the ice for the third period to the tune of CCR's "Fortunate Son" while fans sing along until puck drop.
Perham Turtles

The **Perham Turtles** 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 Perham, Minnesota, the Turtles play their home games at the 500-seat Perham Ice Arena.

## History

The Turtles name references Perham's "Turtle Fest." Held annually since 1979 in Perham, the festival is best known for its International Turtle Races, where people gather from all over the world to race their turtles. Most of the turtles raced are the local Painted Turtle depicted in the team's logo.

### Culture

#### Traditions

Perham fans have been singing "Happy Together" by The Turtles during the second intermission of every home game since their inaugural 1988 season.

### Sheldon

Since their inception, the Turtles have been represented by a body-costumed mascot named Sheldon, a green turtle with orange eyes and mouth and a sand-colored shell. Sheldon can be seen at all Turtles home games at the Perham Ice Arena.
Detroit Lakes Wood Ducks

The **Detroit Lakes Wood Ducks** 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 Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, the Wood Ducks play their home games at the 1,500-seat Kent Freeman Arena.

## History

Before joining the Itasca Association, the Wood Ducks played their first eleven seasons (1977-1987) as a member of the Red River Hockey League.

The Wood Ducks are named after the colorful waterfowl native to the area.

The Woodies have won 1 Kellogg Cup and appeared in 1 Super Series (both in 1986). In their Kellogg Cup run, the Ducks became the lowest-seeded team in the Super Series era to win the Cup (being seeded #14 in the North Region and #15 in the Super Series).

### Culture

#### Don't Stop Believin'

Detroit Lakes has been singing Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'" during the second intermission of every home game since 1981.

Fans sing along to the entire song as players return to the ice midway through. Duck fans are known to really yell the line *"Born and raised in South Detroit"* as a show of town pride.

Lyrics:

> *"Just a small town girl, Livin' in a lonely world, She took the midnight train going anywhere, Just a city boy, Born and raised in South Detroit, He took the midnight train going anywhere*
>
>
> *A singer in a smokey room, A smell of wine and cheap perfume, For a smile they can share the night, It goes on and on and on and on*
>
>
> *Strangers waitin', Up and down the boulevard, Their shadows searchin' in the night, Streetlights, people, Livin' just to find emotion, Hidin', somewhere in the night*
>
>
> *Workin' hard to get my fill, Everybody wants a thrill, Payin' anything to roll the dice, Just one more time*
>
>
> *Some'll win, some will lose, Some are born to sing the blues, Whoa, the movie never ends, It goes on and on and on and on*
>
>
> *Strangers waitin', Up and down the boulevard, Their shadows searchin' in the night, Streetlights, people, Livin' just to find emotion, Hidin', somewhere in the night*
>
>
> *Don't stop believin', Hold on to that feelin', Streetlights, people*
>
>
> *Don't stop believin', Hold on, Streetlights, people*
>
>
>
> *Don't stop believin', Hold on to that feelin', Streetlights, people"*
>
>

### Rivalry Trophies

#### Peliduck Trophy

The Wood Ducks compete against their archrivals the Pelican Rapids Petes for the Peliduck 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 Wood Ducks hold the Trophy, having won the inaugural trophy series in 1988 and holding it the following year.
Morden Monsters

The **Morden Monsters** are a team of the Northland Hockey League, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1988-89 season. Based in Morden, Manitoba, Canada, the Monsters play their home games at the 1,000-seat Access Event Centre.

## History

The Monsters are the MAHL's ninth Canadian team and its fourth based in Manitoba, joining Northland league-mates the Steinbach Barbarians, Winnipeg Monarchs, St. James Stags and expansion brethren the Winkler Wranglers.

The Monsters are named after the Moasaur, a prehistoric marine reptile which has been discovered in the Morden area. Among its largest collection of marine reptile fossils in Canada, Morden boasts of the largest Moasaur ever recorded.

### Rivalry Trophies

#### The Gemini Trophy

The Monsters compete against their Manitoba Twin City rival the Winkler Wranglers for The Gemini 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 Monsters hold the Trophy, having won the inaugural trophy series in 1989.
Spirit Lake Stampeders

The **Spirit Lake Stampeders** are a team of the Southwest Hockey Association, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1970-71 season. Based in Spirit Lake, Iowa, the Stampeders play their home games at a 500-seat rink at Center Lake.

## History

The Stampeders are the third MAHL team to hail from Iowa, joining their Southwest Association league-mates the Sioux City Shockers and the Mason City Musicians of the Blue Earth Hockey League.

### Culture

#### Traditions

Spirit Lake fans are sick, and the only prescription... is more cowbell. Stamp fans are known around the league for bringing cowbells to games and using them as a noisemaker in support of their Stampeders, much to the annoyance of their league-mates.
Sauk Rapids Bulldogs

The **Sauk Rapids Bulldogs** are a team of the Granite Hockey League, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1955-56 season. Based in Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, the Bulldogs play their home games at the 800-seat Sports Arena East.

## History

For their first seven seasons, the Bulldogs were known as the **Sauk Rapids Tornados**, named after the Tornado of 1886 which destroyed the city of Sauk Rapids. Although the city was rebuilt, it has never regained its former status as one of the most prominent cities in Minnesota. Although their (at the time) Granite league-mates the Fergus Falls Cyclones appealed to the league to force Sauk Rapids to change their name (because they felt it was too similar to their own), the Granite League sided with the Tornados, allowing them to keep their identity.

In 1963, the team changed their name to the Bulldogs, not only to distinguish themselves from Fergus Falls, but to play off their recent reputation as a physical team.

The Bulldogs have won 5 Granite League Titles & appeared in 3 Super Series (1984, 1986 & 1987).

### Culture

#### Hey Bulldog

Sauk Rapids has been playing The Beatles' "Hey Bulldog" after wins since their move indoors for the 1987 season. Bulldog fans sing along on their way out of the arena after victories.

Lyrics:

> *"Sheepdog, Standing in the rain, Bullfrog, Doing it again, Some kind of happiness is measured out in miles, What makes you think you're something special when you smile?*
>
>
> *Child-like, No one understands, Jackknife, In your sweaty hands, Some kind of innocence is measured out in years, You don't know what it's like to listen to your fears*
>
>
> *You can talk to me, You can talk to me, You can talk to me, If you're lonely, you can talk to me*
>
>
> *Big man (yeah), Walking in the park, Wigwarm, Frightened of the dark, Some kind of solitude is measured out in you, You think you know me, but you haven't got a clue*
>
>
> *You can talk to me, You can talk to me, You can talk to me, If you're lonely, you can talk to me, (Eh, eh)*
>
>
> *Wahoo! Woof! Woof! Hey, Bulldog! Woof! Hey, Bulldog! Hey, Bulldog! Hey, Bulldog!*
>
>
> *Hey man, what's that, boy? Woof! What do you say? I said, woof! You know anymore? Whoa-ha, ha, ha! You've got it, that's it, you had it*
>
>
> *That's it, man, woo! That's it! You've got it! Don't look at me man, I only have ten children, Ah-ho! Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha! Quiet, boy, quiet! Okay, quiet!*
>
>
>
> *Hey, Bulldog! Hey, Bulldog!"*
>
>
The War Drum

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

**The War Drum** is a rivalry trophy awarded since 1982 to the winner of the season series between the Anoka Warriors and the Coon Rapids Bandits of the North Metro Hockey League. The winning team is known to bang the Drum during games against the other while in possession of it. In years where the season series is tied, whichever team has scored more goals in their meetings wins the Drum.

Currently, Anoka holds the Drum, having won it back in 1989 after a year in Coon Rapids' possession. The Warriors lead the all-time trophy series, 5-3.

## History

Although neither team has won a Kellogg Cup, the Warriors outpace the Bandits in North Metro League Titles (5-2) and Super Series appearances (2-1).
Austin Mavericks

The **Austin Mavericks** are a team of the Valley Hockey League, where they have played since their (and the league's) inaugural 1949-50 season. Based in Austin, Minnesota, the Mavericks play their home games at the 2,500-seat Riverside Arena.

## History

The Mavericks are named in honor of and sponsored by Austin-based meat-packing company George A. Hormel and Company, specifically their SPAM brand of canned cooked pork. In addition, their color scheme of blue and yellow are the same as SPAM.

The Mavericks have won 1 Kellogg Cup, which they won in their seventh season in 1956. Finishing second in the Valley League and entering the playoffs as a #12 seed, the Mavericks upset the #1 seed St. Cloud Bear Cats in the Quarterfinals and the #2 seed West St. Paul Waves in the Kellogg Cup Finals. The Mavs played every possible playoff game in every playoff series (all together 23 games, only one less than the entirety of the regular season), and became the first and so far only team in the Valley League to have captured Senator Kellogg's Cup.

The Mavs have also won 4 Valley League Titles and have appeared in 5 Super Series.

### Culture

#### Horns Up

"Horns Up" is the official slogan of the Austin Mavericks. It is used as a rallying cry, but also has a corresponding hand sign. Mavs fans are known for holding their right arms up with their pointer and pinky fingers up to mimic a pair of horns.

### Rivalry Trophies

#### The Wishbone Trophy

The Mavericks compete against their rivals the Rochester Mustangs for The Wishbone 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 Mustangs hold the Trophy, having won it for the first time in 1983 and holding it the following five years. The Stangs lead the all-time trophy series, 6-1.

### Retired Numbers

* **10** - C Bobby Frenz (1950-1960): 1956 Tschida Trophy winner, led the Mavericks to the 1956 Kellogg Cup and the 1957 Valley League Title.
Virginia Royals

The **Virginia Royals** are a team of the Iron Range Hockey League, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1918-19 season (the first expansion team in MAHL history after the "Original Ten"). Based in Virginia, Minnesota, the Royals play their home games at the 2,000-seat Miners Memorial Building, sharing a home ice with their rivals the Mountain Iron Cougars.

## History

The Royals' name comes from the city of Virginia's nickname, the "Queen City of the North".

So far, the Royals have won 4 Kellogg Cups and 10 Iron Range League Titles and have appeared in 6 Super Series.

### Culture

#### You'll Never Walk Alone

After visiting family in England & catching a Liverpool match, a Virginia Assistant Coach was blown away by the fans singing "You'll Never Walk Alone" and insisted that it be used at Royals games.

Starting in 1963, the Royals have returned to the ice for the third period while their fans stand with their arms in the air, belting "You'll Never Walk Alone" at the top of their lungs.

Lyrics:

> *"When you walk through a storm, Hold your head up high, And don't be afraid of the dark*
>
>
> *At the end of a storm, There's a golden sky, And the sweet silver song of a lark*
>
>
> *Walk on through the wind, Walk on through the rain, For your dreams be tossed and blown*
>
>
> *Walk on, walk on, With hope in your heart, And you'll never walk alone*
>
>
> *You'll never walk alone*
>
>
> *Walk on, walk on, With hope in your heart, And you'll never walk alone*
>
>
>
> *You'll never walk alone"*
>
>

### Rivalry Trophies

#### Quad City Trophy

The Royals compete with the Hibbing Greyhounds, Eveleth Redbirds and Chisholm Flames 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, 14-9-6-1.

#### The Miners Pickaxe

The Royals compete against their rivals and arena neighbors the Mountain Iron Cougars for The Miners Pickaxe, 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 Royals hold the Pickaxe, having won it back in 1989. The Royals lead the all-time trophy series 5-3.

### Retired Numbers

* **6** - RW Louis Nelson (1959-1978): Played for the Royals for 19 seasons, leading them to four Iron Range League titles, three Super Series and one Kellogg Cup (1978)
Albert Lea Dragoons

The **Albert Lea Dragoons** 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 Albert Lea, Minnesota, the Dragoons play their home games at the 1,400-seat Albert Lea City Arena.

## History

The Dragoons are named in honor of the city's namesake, Albert Lea, who was a topographer with the United States Dragoons.

Before joining the Blue Earth League, the Dragoons were a member of the Twin Cities Hockey League in their inaugural 1948–49 season, and afterwards were a founding member of the Valley Hockey League from 1950–1964.  As such, the Drags are the first team in MAHL history to have played in three different leagues (the Minnetonka Muskies would later have that distinction, having played in the Twin Cities, West Metro and Hennepin Leagues).

### Culture

#### Traditions

Albert Lea fans are known as "The Orange Mob" and are known for their incredible travel support, filling visiting arenas in orange whenever the Drags are in town.

#### C'mon Everybody

The Drags have been playing their home games at Albert Lea City Arena since 1974 and every home win has ended with the song "C'mon Everybody" by Eddie Cochran playing over the speakers with the crowd singing and dancing along yelling *"Ooh, c'mon everybody!"*

Eddie Cochran was one of the biggest artists of the mid 50's & early 60's and he was born in Albert Lea and lived there until the age of 14.

Lyrics:

> *"Oh, well, c'mon everybody and let's get together tonight, I got some money in my jeans, and I'm really gonna spend it right, Well, I've been a doin' my homework all the week long, And now, the house is empty and the folks are gone, Ooh, c'mon everybody*
>
>
> *Oh well, my baby's number one, but I'm gonna dance with three or four, And then the house'll be shakin' from the bare feet a-slappin' the floor, Well, when you hear that music, you can't sit still, If your brother won't rock, then your sister will, Ooh, c'mon everybody*
>
>
> *Oh well, we'll really have a party, but we gotta put a guard outside, If the folks come home, I'm afraid they're gonna have my hide, There'll be no more movies for a week or two, No more runnin' 'round with the usual crew, Who cares, c'mon everybody*
>
>
>
> *C'mon everybody!"*
>
>
Cloquet Broncos

The **Cloquet Broncos** are a team of the Lake Superior Hockey League, where they have played as a charter member since the league's inaugural 1923-24 season.  Based in Cloquet, Minnesota, the Broncos play their home games at the 900-seat Pine Valley Ice Arena.

## History

Before joining the Lake Superior League, the Broncos played their first four seasons (1920-1923) as a member of the Iron Range Hockey League, and its first members based outside of St. Louis County, Minnesota.

The Broncos have won 2 Kellogg Cups (1926 & 1982) and 9 Lake Superior League Titles, including the first three from 1924-1926. In addition, the Broncos have appeared in 4 Super Series.

### Culture

#### Traditions

It's tradition in Cloquet to touch the Lucky Horseshoe above the locker room door any time you leave the room. Every player makes sure to touch the shoe before stepping foot on the ice.

#### Stand By Me

Bronco fans have joined together in singing the Ben E. King classic, "Stand By Me", during the second intermission of every home game since 1961. The song has become a staple of Cloquet and is the unofficial team anthem.

Lyrics:

> *"When the night has come, And the land is dark, And the moon is the only light we'll see, No, I won't be afraid, Oh, I won't be afraid, Just as long as you stand, Stand by me*
>
>
> *So darlin', darlin', stand by me, Oh, stand by me, Oh, stand, Stand by me, stand by me*
>
>
> *If the sky that we look upon, Should tumble and fall, Or the mountain should crumble to the sea, I won't cry, I won't cry, No, I won't shed a tear, Just as long as you stand, Stand by me*
>
>
> *And darlin', darlin', stand by me, Oh, stand by me, Oh, stand now, Stand by me, stand by me*
>
>
> *And darlin', darlin', stand by me, Oh, stand by me, Oh, stand now, Stand by me, stand by me*
>
>
>
> *Whenever you're in trouble won't you stand by me, Oh, stand by me, Won't you stand by"*
>
>

### Handsome Jack

Beginning in 1983, the Broncos have a body-costumed mascot named Handsome Jack, a purple bronco with a gold mane and gold tail. A fan favorite, Handsome Jack can be seen at all Broncos home games at the Pine Valley Ice Arena.

### Rivalry Trophies

#### The Rusty Skate

The Broncos compete with their archrivals the Duluth Voyageurs for The Rusty Skate, 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 Voyageurs hold the Skate, having won it back in 1988 and holding it the following year. Le Bleus lead the all-time trophy series 16-4.

### Retired Numbers

* **3** - C Brady Millen (1960-1967): Four-time Tschida Trophy winner (1960, 1964, 1965, 1967), led the Broncos to five Lake Superior League titles, three Super Series and the 1964 Kellogg Cup Final. Drafted in 1967 by the NHL's St. Louis Blues.
The Milk Jug

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

**The Milk Jug** was the first rivalry trophy in the Minnesota Amateur Hockey League's history. Awarded since 1946 to the winner of the season series between the two teams based in Minnesota's capital city, the St. Paul Saints and St. Paul Victorias of the Twin Cities Hockey League. In years where the season series is tied, whichever team has scored more goals in their meetings wins the Jug.

Currently, the Saints hold the Milk Jug, having won it back in 1987 after a year in the Victorias' possession. However, the V's lead the all-time trophy series 30-13.

## History

### Before the Jug

The Saints (known as the **St. Paul Athletic Club** until 1918) and Victorias were both charter members of the MAHL and the Twin Cities League for the inaugural 1916 season. Whereas membership on the Saints is restricted to members of the St. Paul Athletic Club, the Victorias are open to all residents of St. Paul.

The V's have had the edge in the rivalry early on, having already won the very first Kellogg Cup in 1916 and 6 Twin Cities League Titles by the time the Halos won their first League Title in 1937. Overall, the V's lead the Halos in Kellogg Cups (3-1), Twin Cities League Titles (19-9) and Super Series appearances (15-3). However, the Saints had defeated the Victorias in 3 of their 4 playoff encounters before the fateful second round in 1946.

### 1946 Second Round

As the Victorias had defeated their other archrivals the Minneapolis Millers in the knockout round, and the Saints had earned a knockout round bye thanks to their 1946 TCHL title, the two teams faced each other once more in the best-of-three second round series of the 1946 Kellogg Cup Playoffs.

After the Victorias had won Game 1, some Saints players discovered the "lucky" milk jug which V's captain Lance Ogden brought to every game. The Halos seized the jug from the V's locker room before going on to win Game 2. Before Game 3, the Saints made an offer to the Victorias; whoever won the winner-take-all game would get to keep the jug after the game. After the Saints won the game (and would go on to win their first Kellogg Cup that year), they paraded around the ice with the jug to further taunt the Victorias.

From that moment on, whichever team would win the head-to-head series between the Halos and V's in any season would take home the Milk Jug.

### Since the Jug

The V's series lead is largely thanks to their 13-year winning streak from 1950-1962 (the longest in series history) as well as their eleven-year winning stream from 1975-1985.

The V's and Saints have met in the playoffs three more times since 1946, with the Saints having won two since then.
North Mankato River Bats

The **North Mankato River Bats** 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 North Mankato, Minnesota, the River Bats play their home games at the 1,000-seat North Mankato Ice Arena.

## History

For years, rumors have circulated about North Mankato trying to get a Blue Earth League team, with these same rumors claiming that the Mankato Moose were the ones who had been blocking any such expansion (having several talented players from North Mankato on their roster). With the River Bats' arrival, these rumors have been put to rest once and for all.

The River Bats name references North Mankato's location on the shores of the Minnesota River.

### Culture

#### Traditions

North Mankato players return to the ice for the third period to the sound of "Bat Out of Hell" by Meat Loaf. This tradition started back in the teams inaugural season and the tune has become synonymous with the team.

### Rivalry Trophies

#### Kato Cup

The River Bats compete against their archrivals the Mankato Moose 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.
The Anchor

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

**The Anchor** is a rivalry trophy awarded since 1978 to the winner of the season series between the Duluth Hornets and the Superior Lakers of the Lake Superior Hockey League. In years where the season series is tied, whichever team has scored more goals in their meetings wins the Anchor.

Currently, Duluth holds the Anchor, having won it back in 1989 after nine years in Superior's possession. However, the Lakers lead the all-time trophy series, 9-3

## Rivalry Facts

The Hornets and Lakers have enjoyed a fierce rivalry for their entire history, both teams being charter members of the Lake Superior league located across the Minnesota-Wisconsin border (in fact, the Lakers were the first team based outside Minnesota to ever join the MAHL). The Anchor was chosen as their rivalry trophy to reflect both teams' location on the shores of Lake Superior.

Currently, the Hornets outpace the Lakers in Kellogg Cups (3-2) and Lake Superior League Titles (11-5). However, the Lakers outpace the Hornets in Super Series appearances (6-2).
North Oaks Acorns

The **North Oaks Acorns** are a team of the Northeast Hockey Association, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1988-89 season. Based in North Oaks, Minnesota, the Acorns play their home games at the 600-seat North Oaks Recreation Center.

## History

The Acorns name plays off the town's name.

### Culture

#### Big Nuts

North Oaks has a... unique celebration. Dating back to their inaugural season, players have done what has been dubbed the "Big Nuts" celebration after scoring.

Players scoop their arms below their waist, as if holding up a giant pair of nuts, while skating their way to their teammates for celebratory high fives as they skate past the bench.

The celly has gotten a lot of heat from opposing teams who say it is "lewd, childish, & disrespectful". Despite the critics, the Big Nuts celebration has been embraced by the Acorns who perhaps like it more now knowing it upsets opponents and their fans.

### The Acorn

Since their inception, the Acorns have been represented by a body-costumed mascot simply known as The Acorn, a brown acorn with green eyes. Because of the costume's very poor visibility, the Acorn is a comedic mascot known to fall over and run into things. The Acorn can be seen stumbling around the ice or concourse at all Acorns home games at the North Oaks Recreation Center.
New Ulm Bavarians

The **New Ulm Bavarians** 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 New Ulm, Minnesota, the Bavarians play their home games at the 1,200-seat New Ulm Ice Arena.

## History

The Bavarians name, logo and color scheme honors the immigrants from the German state of Bavaria who founded the town and named it after the Bavarian city of Ulm. New Ulm is sometimes called "The Most German Town In America" for its long and proud German history.

Before joining the Blue Earth League, the Bavarians were a member of the Valley Hockey League from their founding in 1961 until 1964.

The Bavarians have 2 Kellogg Cups (1971 & 1985), 9 Blue Earth League Titles (tied with the Mankato Moose for most in the league), and have appeared in 11 Super Series.

### Culture

#### Traditions

The Bavarians have been playing "99 Luftballons" by German pop artist Nena during the second intermission of every home game since 1983. Fans sing along in its original language of German.

#### Ein Prosit

What started simply as a fun chant after goals has led to a key part of New Ulm hockey. The popular Octoberfest drinking song "Ein Prosit" has been sung after every Diamonds goal and win since their inaugural 1961 season.

The term has also become a rallying cry for Bavs fans, using it as a simple way to show support for their boys in blue, being adopted as the teams official motto.

Lyrics:

> *"Ein Prosit, ein Prosit*
>
>
> *Der Gemütlichkeit*
>
>
> *Ein Prosit, ein Prosit*
>
>
> *Der Gemütlichkeit*
>
>
> *Oans, zwoa, drei, gsuffa!*
>
>
> *Ziggy zaggy, ziggy zaggy*
>
>
> *oi oi oi!*
>
>
> *Ziggy zaggy, ziggy zaggy*
>
>
>
> *oi oi oi!"*
>
>
Japanese Items

Relocating to an island over 100 thousand miles away from home, the Japanese sought to evade surrender and start a new Empire. After the sudden execution of their Prime Minister and re-establishing the Japanese Empire, the Emperor declares war on the Cobra Empire. Assuming the Cobras are weak due to being 100 thousand miles away from the developed world sends a small army to the island of Jetacoria unaware that the island of Onel is the capital and they didn't make plans of attack. The Cobras taking it as a sign of war and not attention seeking declare war on the Japanese Empire and a state of war begins between the Cobra Mega-Empire (merging of 3 Super-Kingdoms), the Japanese Empire, and an angry nomad faction who wishes to rule the world themselves!
Crystal Colts

The **Crystal Colts** are a team of the West Metro Hockey League, where they have played since moving to the league for the 1982-83 season. Based in Crystal, Minnesota, the Colts play their home games at the 2,200-seat New Hope Ice Arena in nearby New Hope, sharing a home ice with their archrivals the New Hope Raiders.

## History

Before joining the West Metro League, the Colts played their first 8 seasons (1975-1983) as a member of the North Metro Hockey League.

In their 14 seasons of play thus far, the Colts have never qualified for the Kellogg Cup playoffs.

### Simon the Stallion

Since their inaugural season, the Colts have had a two-person body-costumed mascot named Simon the Stallion, an orange horse with blue eyes. Because of the costume's limitations and challenges, Simon is known for his quirkiness and awkwardness. However, despite the challenge, Simon can be seen on the ice and in the crowd during all the Colts' home games at the New Hope Ice Arena.

### Rivalry Trophies

#### The Silver Horseshoe

The Colts compete against their archrivals the New Hope Raiders for The Silver Horseshoe, 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 Colts hold the Horseshoe, having won it for the first time in 1987 and holding it the following year to tie the all-time trophy series, 2-2.
Minnesota River Rivalry

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

The **Minnesota River Rivalry** is a rivalry series contested since 1985 between the Mankato Moose and the St. Peter Governors of the Blue Earth Hockey League. The trophy for the Rivalry is a metal tube bent in the shape of the Minnesota River, which is awarded to the winner of the regular season series. In years where the season series is tied, whichever team has scored more goals in their meetings wins the Rivalry and its trophy.

Currently, Mankato holds the trophy, having won it for the first time in 1986 and holding it the following 2 years. The Moose lead the all-time trophy series, 3-1.

## Rivalry Facts

The rivalry's name references the cities of Mankato and St. Peter's respective locations on the shores of the Minnesota River.

Although neither team has ever won a Kellogg Cup, the Moose outpace the Governors in Blue Earth League Titles (9-3) and in Super Series appearances (8-1). The teams have met once in the Kellogg Cup playoffs, with the Govs defeating the Moose 4-3 in the first round of the 1978 playoffs.
Cold Spring Springers

The **Cold Spring Springers** are a team of the Granite Hockey League, where they have played since joining the league as an expansion team for the 1988-89 season. Based in Cold Spring, Minnesota, the Springers play their home games at the 500-seat River Lakes Civic Arena in nearby Richmond.

## History

The Springers are owned and sponsored by the Cold Spring Springers baseball team, a Minnesota Town Ball Baseball team which has won 4 State Championships and has more State Tournament appearances than any other Town Ball team. Not only has the hockey team adopted the baseball Springers' name, but also their color scheme, script, & "CS" cap logo.