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HERITAGE TIER 1 HOCKEY SHOWCASE SCORES (10/30/15)

 16 U First Round (Friday, October 30, 2015)

Chicago Fury 5, Minnesota Magicians 2
Madison Capitols 6, Phoenix Jr. Coyotes 5
Minnesota Blades 3, Green Bay Jr. Gamblers 2
Team Wisconsin 9, Sioux Falls Jr. Stampede 2
Chicago 2, Sioux Falls 0
Wisconsin 8, Magicians 4
Blades 5, Phoenix 1
Madison 5, Green Bay 5


Saturday, October 31, 2015

MN Blades 5  Madison 2
Magicians 4  Sioux Falls 1

Phoenix 2  Green Bay 0
Team Wisc 8  Chicago 1  

Semi Final Play
Team Wisc 5  Madison 0 
Blades 4  Chicago 1
Phoenix 3  Sioux Falls 0
Magicians 5  Green Bay 3 

Matchups for Sunday, November 1

9:00 AM    Phoenix Jr. Coyotes vs. MN Magicians (Consolation)
9:00 AM    Chicago Fury vs. Madison Capitols (3rd place)
11:00 AM  Team Wisconsin vs.MN Blades (Championship)

18 U First Round Play (October 30, 2015)

Shattuck- St. Mary's 3, Notre Dame Hounds 2
Minnesota Blades 4, Minnesota Magicians 2
Chicago Fury 9, Phoenix Jr. Coyotes 1
Madison Capitols 1, Sioux Falls 1
Green Bay Jr. Gamblers 6, Kenora Thistles 1
MN Blades 8, Shattuck 0
MN Magicians 5, Phoenix 5
Notre Dame 6, Kenora 3
Chicago 7, Madison 2
Sioux Falls 2, Green Bay 1

Saturday, October 31, 2015
Chicago 6  Green Bay 1
Sioux Falls 3  Kenora 0
​Madison 4  MN Magicians 0
Notre Dame 6  MN Blades 4
Green Bay 4 MN Magicians 2 
Madison 3, Shattuck 0
Notre Dame 3, Sioux Falls 2
MN Blades 2, Phoenix 1

Matchups for Sunday, November 1

9:00 AM  MN Blades vs. Sioux Falls Jr. Stampede (Consolation)
11:00 AM  Chicago Fury vs.Notre Dame Hounds (Championship)

                                  HERITAGE TIER 1 HOCKEY SHOWCASE
                                        16 U STANDINGS AS OF 10-31-15
                 
                                                        GOLD POOL 
Team   Won Lost Tied Points Goals Scored Goals Allowed  Differential 
Team Wisconsin 3 0 0 6 25 7 18
Chicago   2 1 0 4 8 10 -2
Magicians 1 2 0 2 10 11 -1
Sioux Falls 0 3 0 0 2 7 -5
                 
                                                          MAROON POOL 
Team   Won Lost Tied Points Goals Scored Goals Allowed  Differential 
Minnesota Blades 3 0 0 6 13 5 7
Madison   1 1 1 3 13 15 -2
Green Bay 0 2 1 1 7 10 -3
Phoenix   1 2 0 2 8 11 -3

 

 

18U Final Standings as of 10/31/15
   
Team   Won Lost Tied Points Goals Scored Goals Allowed  Differential 
Chicago Fury 4 0 0 8 30 6 24
Notre Dame Hounds 3 1 0 6 17 12 5
Minnesota Blades 3 1 0 6 18 9 9
Sioux Falls  2 1 1 5 8 5 3
Madison Capitols 2 1 1 5 10 8 2
Green Bay  2 2 0 4 13 17 -4
Phoenix Jr. Coyotes 1 2 1 3 11 20 -9
Shattuck   1 3 0 2 6 17 -11
Minnesota Magicians 0 3 1 1 9 17 -8
Kenora   0 4 0 0 5 23 -18

 

SEITZ ICE BACK IN ACTION (9/18/14)

     After a full summer of turf activities, “winter” has once again come to Seitz Arena. Under the guidance of Senior Lead Ice Technician Troy Sager, it took the DHSC Arena associates less than seven days to remove the turf, cool the floor and get the ice ready for skating. The Duluth Fire Department skaters were the first to test the new sheet and proclaimed it to be in “perfect” skating condition.
     Meanwhile, the turf has been transferred to the DECC aboard a Jeff Foster truck, where it will be stored until it can be placed into winter service at Pioneer Hall in November. 
     With Seitz ice in service, the Sill ice will be conditioned for the upcoming season. Although the ice sheet won’t be removed this year, it will get some serious attention to provide a like-new surface. This reconditioning process is expected to take three days, as the ice is shaved down close to the floor and then gradually rebuilt to skating condition.
     Both Sill and Seitz Arenas are scheduled for some busy times during the month of October, starting with Gary-Morgan Park’s  Chris Johnson  3 on 3 Memorial Classic on October 3-5 and finishing with the Holiday Inn & Suites Hockey Showcase 18U Midget Tournament October 24-26. In between, DAHA teams will use nearly every available after-school and weekend hour as they prepare for their upcoming season.
     The month caps off with the Halloween “Boo Bash”, a free community skating party that is hosted by the City of Duluth, the Boys & Girls Club, the Duluth Children’s Museum and the Duluth Heritage Sports Center. 

FORMER BULLDOG GREATS TOUR THE DHSC (07-31-14)


Butch Curran (left) and Pat Francisco (right) enjoy some old time hockey talk with Elmer Schwartz (center)

     On Monday, July 28, 2014, the words “Hockey Heritage” had a special meeting as three former UMD Bulldog hockey players visited our facility.
     Shown in the accompanying photo, Irving (Butch) Curran, Elmer Schwartz and Pat Francisco took some time to reminisce about the “good old days” when they carved their permanent niche in Duluth’s hockey history. Elmer and his spouse, Sharon, were in town for the UMD Hockey reunion.
     Elmer Schwartz attended UMD during the team’s MIAC years (1955-58). He and teammate Harvey Flaman made the trip from Saskatchewan to play for then-head coach Connie Pleban. During his tenure, Schwartz set some UMD records which still exist today and may never be duplicated. He scored 5 goals in one period against Hamline University (1957) and recorded 7 assists in one game against Gustavus (1958). Schwartz was elected to the UMD Athletic Hall of Fame in 1993. 
    Butch Curran was a Duluth East grad who his youth hockey at Glen Avon. He played with the ‘Dogs from 1956-59. He amassed 61 points in 62 games during his career as the left wing on the Schwartz-Flaman line.  
     Pat Francisco was a Bulldog from 1963-67. The former Denfeld grad was a right wing on a high-scoring line which included Bruce McLeod on the left and Keith (Huffer) Christianson at center. This dynamic group led the WCHA in scoring during the 1966-67 season, the team’s first in the new home at the Duluth Entertainment & Convention Center. 
     Francisco is the Chair of the Duluth Heritage Sports Center Foundation, taking a lead role in the fundraising campaign to finance the Center 

DULUTH EAST'S ALEX TRAPP WINS AWARD (05/20/14)

     Alex Trapp, Duluth East High School Senior, is the recipient of a 2014 Hobey Baker High School Character Award. He was selected for this honor based on his outstanding individual performance on and off the ice
    
With the philosopy that “success starts with character” , this award is granted each year to honor high school hockey players who exemplify the Hobey Baker ideal that "Character Builds Excellence."     Candidates are nominated by their coaches, based on the following criteria:

  • Integrity and positive attitude
  • Coachability
  • Outstanding sportsmanship
  • Community spirit

     The Duluth Heritage Sports Center joins with his teammates, his school and the entire community to add our congratulations to Alex for this significant accomplishment. 

FOUR NEW HOCKEY HERITAGE RENDITIONS INSTALLED IN WEST WALL ARCHES 12-28-13


A mural of Duluth's outdoor rink life, with 1960 Olympian Tommy Williams sharing his time & talents with the youth on Lower Chester's neighborhood rink.

     Murals depicting photos from Duluth's storied hockey history are now on display in Sill Arena's west wall arches. The murals, prepared by the DHSC Heritage Commitee,  contain an interesting collection of hockey history photos, including the equipment used to play the game and those who kept us informed through the media. There are also typical displays of life on our community's outdoor youth rinks, including some special pictures of kids having fun.
     When you're next in Sill Arena, be sure to check out these interesting new displays.

NEW "NOTABLE" BANNERS IN PLACE 11-23-13


Jack Connolly, 2012 Hobey Baker winner, takes his place among the "Notables" in Duluth storied hockey history. Adam Coole is in the background, with the immortal Tommy Willams in the foreground.

Seven (7) new “Notable” banners are now suspended from the ceiling above the north concourse in Sill Arena. They are:

JACK CONNOLLY , who received the 2012 Hobey Baker trophy symbolizing the best college hockey player in the country. Jack is a product of the Duluth Heights rink and the Duluth East Pee Wee & Bantam Programs. He played high school hockey at  Marshall High School before going on to UMD, where he was a two-time All American.  On his way to UMD, Jack played for the Sioux Falls Stampede in the United States Hockey League and was selected as USA Hockey’s Junior Player of the Year in 2006. He is currently playing professional hockey in Sweden.

LAURA BELLAMY, who came through Duluth’s hockey programs to become a star goaltender for Harvard University. Laura played her youth hockey at the Piedmont rink and in the Duluth Icebreaker’s girls program. She was the starting goalie for the Duluth Northern Stars for 4 years, winning the prestigious Let’s Play Hockey award as the best girl goalie in Minnesota in 2009. Laura attended Denfeld High School, before going on to play hockey at Harvard, where she became one of the top goaltenders in the school’s history, with several goaltending record to her name. Laura was Harvard’s captain during her senior year and is currently on the team’s coaching staff for the 2013-14 season.

KYLE KOLQUIST, who tended goal for Duluth East High School, winning the Frank Brimsek Award as the best high school goalie in Minnesota in 1997.  Kyle ‘s goaltending helped the Greyhounds gain the 1997 Minnesota High School Hockey State tournament, where they lost an exciting Championship game to Edina 1-0. He played his youth hockey at the Portman Rink and the Duluth East Pee Wee & Bantam programs. After high school, Kyle continued his hockey career as a four-year member of  Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish hockey program .

LEAH WRAZIDLO, who made her claim to fame as a referee. Leah was selected to work the women’s games during the 2010 Winter Olympics. On her way to earning this honor, Leah officiated hockey in the 2007 International Ice Hockey Federation Women’s World Championships and has spent several years working in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association’s women’s programs. She has also worked a number of Junior hockey games in the North American Hockey league. Leah began her career as a youth hockey player at the Irving Rink. She attended Denfeld High School, playing hockey for Duluths only high school girls team, the Dynamite, before moving on to UMD. Her Bulldog team won the 2001 NCAA Women’s Ice Hockey Championship. Leah refereed her first game in the Duluth Amateur Hockey Association.

ADAM COOLE who was the 1998 winner of the Frank Brimsek Award as the best high school goalie in Minnesota. As a stand-out goalie for Duluth East, he was rock solid for the Greyhounds, capping the season with a stellar performance in the Minnesota State High School Hockey Tounament to help his team defeat Anoka 3-1 to claim the title.  Adam was a member of the Glen Avon rink and the Duluth East Pee Wee & Bantam programs. He began his college hockey career as a member of the UMD Bulldogs and later transferred to St. Cloud State.

FRANK (CODDY) WINTERS,  a Duluth native who started his hockey career long before there was high school hockey in Duluth. Coddy began playing the game when it was referred to as “ice polo”, as a member of the Duluth Northern Hardware team. In 1904, the Duluth team played a series of games with a Cleveland, OH all-star team, which was dubbed the “National Championship”. Coddy led the Duluth team to victory in that series and was ultimately recruited to remain in Cleveland. After retiring from hockey after the 1922 season, Coddy turn to coaching, first mentoring the semi-professional Case Tech teams in Cleveland and the team from the University of Pennsylvania. During his career, he turned down several offers to play the game professionally and is often compared to US Hockey Hall of Fame members Hobey Baker and Frank (Moose) Goheen as one of America;s greatest hockey players.

STAN GILBERTSON, who started his hockey career at the Lower Chester Rink and ended it after playing 428 games  spread among 4 different teams in the National Hockey League.  Stan spent six years playing junior hockey in Canada and in the minor leagues. He got his first chance with the pros when he was drafted by the California Golden Seals. He remained there for three years, before going to the St. Louis Blues, then to the Washington Capitals. Stan ended his career as a member of the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he was a part of the teams Stanley Cup playoff roster in 1976. He retired in 1977, after losing part of a leg in a car accident.

RAY PETERSON GRANT AWARDS (11/12/13

Duluth Heritage Sports Center Foundation (DHSCF) Chair Patrick Francisco announced today that grants have been awarded from the Ray Peterson Fund (Fund) to three local youth organizations to help fund their programs to assist financially challenged youth wishing to participate in sports activities.
        The Duluth Amateur Hockey Association (DAHA) received a grant in the amount of $2,000 to be used to bolster its Hank Jensen Fund, the Boys & Girls Club of the Northland received a grant in the amount of $1950 to fund ten scholarships for the Duluth Heritage Sports Summer Camp and the Arrowhead Youth Soccer Association (AYSA) received $1,000 to help sustain its scholarship program to fund both fees and equipment for youth in need of financial assistance. The grants were awarded based upon the applications submitted by these organizations, with their recognition that the funds be restricted for use in a manner that befits the Fund’s mission.
       
“We’re both pleased and proud that we’ve been able to make these awards to these deserving organizations” commented Francisco. “Ray Peterson strongly believed that participation in sports was a positive way for a young person to burn off pent-up energy and he wanted any kid who wanted to play to have that chance, regardless of their financial ability.”
        
Ray Peterson was an icon within the annals of Duluth’s rich hockey heritage. As the Director of Activities for Wheeler Field, he launched some of Duluth’s earliest hockey programs, including the first Duluth Denfeld high school team. But he was best known as a person who truly cared about youth and gave freely of his time and limited resources so that those most in need could participate in athletics.
         
The Ray Peterson Fund was launched in 2010, when a group of Ray’s former players, led by Duluthians Russell and Anne Strom, bestowed a very generous gift in Ray’s memory, with the request that the funds be used to continue the work that Ray started more than 70 years ago…assisting financially challenged youth who wish to participate in athletic activities or pursue an education in vocational training.  
         
“It’s an honor to have been entrusted to keep Ray’s spirit alive in this manner.” said Francisco. “He’d be very pleased to know that his desire to help kids continues, thanks to those whom he helped through their giving back to help others”

LSC BOYS HOCKEY JAMBOREE RETURNS TO THE DHSC 11/8/13

      On Tuesday, November 19, the Duluth Heritage Sports Center (DHSC) will once again be the site for the Lake Superior Conference (LSC) Boys Hockey Jamboree. The eight LSC boy’s teams will be divided into two pools, with Superior, Proctor, North Shore and Ashland playing in the early games, while Denfeld, Marshall, Hermantown & Cloquet will square off in the nightcaps. The teams were placed into the pools based upon their last season’s standings in the conference. 
     In addition to the hockey jamboree, the dance teams from Denfeld, Hermantown, Marshall and Superior will also be displaying their talents in the Clyde Iron Restaurant Event Center. The dance team performances are planned so as to permit fans to be able to watch both the hockey games and the dance lines.  As a extra enticement for fans to attend both the Jamboree and the dance line performances, the Clyde Iron Restaurant will prepare a pizza buffet with a special  price of  $12 that will include not only pizza & soda, but admission to both the dance team event and the hockey game. The pizza buffet will be available from 6 PM to 8 PM. 
    
Jerry DeMeo, DHSC’s president, said that the entire event was planned with the students in mind. “We wanted this to be much more than just another Hockey Jamboree.” said DeMeo. ”Here’s a chance to see all LSC teams play in one building and, at the same time, support your school’s dance team while enjoying some Clyde Iron pizza. We think this will be a huge attraction, at an affordable price,  and we expect that students, families and pure hockey fans will turn out for an enjoyable evening.”
    
Ticket prices for the games alone are $6 for adults and $4 for students. The schedules follow:

LSC BOYS HOCKEY JAMBOREE

SILL ARENA

 

SEITZ ARENA

5:30

Proctor

vs.

North Shore

 

5:15

Superior

vs.

Ashland

6:10

Superior

vs.

Proctor

 

5:55

North Shore

vs.

Ashland

6:50

Superior

vs.

North Shore

 

6:35

Proctor

vs.

Ashland

 SILL ARENA

 

SEITZ ARENA

7:45

Hermantown

vs.

Denfeld

 

7:30

Marshall

vs.

Cloquet

8:25

Cloquet

vs.

Denfeld

 

8:10

Hermantown

vs.

Marshall

9:05

Hermantown

vs.

Cloquet

 

8:50

Marshall

vs.

Denfeld

 

DANCE TEAM PERFORMANCES

(Clyde Event Center

7:00 PM

 

Marshall

                             7:15 PM

 

Denfeld

7:30 PM

 

Hermantown

7:45 PM

 

Superior

SHATTUCK-ST. MARY'S CAPTURES HI&S SHOWCASE 10/27/13

Shattuck-St. Mary’s Sabres successfully defended its title as champions of the Holiday Inn & Suites Hockey Heritage Showcase, defeating Team Wisconsin by a score of 2-1. This was the second year that these two teams met in the Championship game. Shattuck also won last year’s game by one goal.
             In the Third place game, the Thunder Bay Kings took measure of the Duluth Northern Wings 4-3, while the Minnesota Blades bested the Chicago Fury 5-3 for the Consolation championship.
          The games were played on Sunday, October 27, in AMSOIL Arena and marked the 5th game in three days for all of the final round competitors.  
          The Holiday Inn & Suites Hockey Heritage Showcase is an event for Tier 1 16U teams which are generally comprised of the top 15-16 year old players in the country. 

Holiday Inn & Suites Hockey Showcase

Round Robin Results

Friday, October 25, 2013

Duluth Northern Wings   4          KC Mav Elites  1

Thunder Bay Kings  3                Madison Capitols  2

Team Wisconsin  2                    Chicago Fury   1

Shattuck- St, Mary’s   3             Minnesota Blades   2

Thunder Bay Kings   4               KC Mavs Elite   3

Duluth Northern Wings   4          Madison Capitols   0

Minnesota Blades   3                 Chicago Fury   3

Team Wisconsin   6                   Shattuck- St. Mary’s   4

Saturday, October 26, 2013

KC Mavs Elite   5                      Madison Capitols   1

Thunder Bay Kings   4               Duluth Northern Wings   4

Shattuck-St. Mary’s   6              Chicago Fury   2

Team Wisconsin   2                   Minnesota Blades)

Standings after Round Robin play:

Maroon Pool:    1. Duluth Northern Wings; 2. Thunder Bay Kings; 3. KC Mavs Elite; 4. Madison Capitols

Gold Pool:          1. Team Wisconsin; 2. Shattuck-St. Mary’s; 3. Minnesota Blades; 4. Chicago Fury

Championship Round – Oct. 26 3:00 PM

Shattuck-St. Mary's   5           Duluth Northern Wings   4

Team Wisconsin  2                Thunder Bay Kings  0

Consolation Round – October 26, 3:00 PM

Chicago Fury    2                 KC Mavs Elite   1  (OT)

Minnesota Blades   6           Madison Capitols   2

Sunday, October 27, 2013

Consolation Championship
Minnesota Blades   5          Chicago Fury   3

Third Place Game
Thunder Bay Kings   4        Duluth Northern Wings   3

Championship
Shattuck- St. Mary's  2       Team Wisconsin   1

SENIORS TAKE CENTER ICE (10/7/13)


The Minnesota Old Tymers pose with the Clyde Iron Cup, symbolic of their two victories in the Senior Get-Together in Sill Arena. The players names will be engraved on a plaque which will be added to the Cup, which is on permanent display at the DHSC

     It's often said there's no substitute for experience and, when it comes to recognzing value, senior hockey players take a back seat to no one. Taking advantage of economical weekday ice time, three men's senior teams laced 'em up at Sill Arena on Monday, October 7 and Tuesday, October 8, to compete for bragging rights in a hockey series that offered a high content of exercise & enjoyment with a small budget. 
    The Minnesota Old Tymers, based in Minnetonka, MN and the Thunder Bay Juicers traveled to Duluth to take on the Duluth Old Dawgs in an event where the players each paid $15 to play two one hour games, with each team playing the other once.  The games were played at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when midweek ice rental costs are the lowest. In keeping with the low cost concept, the games were "self-officiated" with a player commiting a penalty simply imposed it upon himself and skated to the penalty box.
    On Monday evening, the teams & spouses gathered at the Clyde Iron Restaurant for dinner and to share stories of their hockey experiences. The Old Tymers left town with the bragging rights, winning both of their games. 
    The success of the event has prompted the organizers to consider expand the event to as many as eight teams for next fall. 
     

Denfeld Boys Hockey Hosts Inaugural "Skate With the Hunters" Event 10/06/13

            On Sunday, October 6th, the Denfeld Boys Hockey team held an event called "Skate With the Hunters".  This event was put on by the Denfeld Hockey Booster Club, and was open to all youth in the western Duluth working group--the feeder program for the Denfeld High School team.  Over 60 skaters representing Duluth Heights, Piedmont, Gary-Morgan Park, and the Denfeld Youth Associations were treated to 2 hours of ice time with the high school players.   The event kicked off with a rousing rendition of the Denfeld school song, led by the Hockey Cheerleaders.  On ice games such as Pom-Pom Pull Away, Shoot on the (High School) Goalie, a hockey-themed obstacle course, and even a dice game were a hit with the skaters, as facilitated by the high school players.  Off-ice events included a tribute to the recent Denfeld Youth Association/Duluth Lakers State Participant teams, drawing for prizes donated by families and local businesses, and a small lunch, open to all in attendance.  The afternoon closed with a center-ice "stick salute"--a show of respect and appreciation for the players, parents, and supporters of Denfeld Hockey, at all levels.  This event was proof that Denfeld Pride is alive--and contageous!

"Shirley's Kitchen" Project Begins To Take Shape (9/19/13)


Volunteers Jim Stebe & Jim Seitz put the finishing touches on the arch that will contain the photo display for "Shirley's Kitchen"

       At the end of last hockey season, a group of people whose lives were positively affected by Duluth's ultimate hockey mom, Shirley Kirsch, came together to form a plan to assist the Duluth Heritage Sports Center (DHSC) with its fundraising and, at the same time, commemorate Shirley for all she's done to help literally hundreds of college students, many of whom were hockey players, to have a "home away from home"!
     These kids would regularly flock to Shirley's home to be both housed & fed, not because they needed food or shelter, but with many of them being away from home for the first time, they missed the family life... a life they found in abundance at the Kirsch residence.
     The fundraising effort was launched with a generous lead gift of $10,000 by an anonymous source who could well relate to all that Shirley has done to help these "homeless" college students preserve their strong family values. This lead gift was more than tripled by contributions from many others who felt that Shirley was well-deserving of recognition for her spirited support.
     In appreciation for these generous donations, the DHSC will rename the Sill Arena concession stand as "Shirley's Kitchen". This coming season, the stand will offer a revised menu that includes some of the soup styles for which the Kirsch kitchen became famous. An awning with the "Shirley's Kitchen" logo will be placed above the concession stand serving window and an arch displaying photos that tell Shirley's story will be placed on an adjacent wall. One of Shirley's quilts will also adorn the front of the concession stand. Except for the awning, all of the materials and labor for the display were donated by Shirley's friends.
     The Grand Dedication for "Shirley's Kitchen" opening is set for Saturday, October 19.

FIVE YEARS...AND STILL GROWING! (5/5/13)

It was the second day in May, 2008 when the first skater stepped on to the ice at Sill Arena in the Duluth Heritage Sports Center. It was a time that those skeptical about the project were willing to bet would never come. It was a time when those who believed and diligently lent their support were smiling. Today, five years later, the skeptics have disappeared into their realms of negativity while the supporters are still beaming with pride. The Duluth Heritage Sports Center and all it means to our community and its youth is here to stay!
     Seitz Arena (then known as the Pavilion) opened its doors in January 2009, making the DHSC the only medium sized two ice sheet facility north of the Twin Cities. With all of the amenities it offers, Duluth has always been the “preferred” place to come for youth hockey tournaments, especially during the summer months, when the entire family could enjoy both the scenery and the weather. Adding the DHSC to the mix made for a perfect recipe to attract visitors from nearly every state in the union who come to play hockey and stay to enjoy all of the benefits of a northland vacation. During 2012, nearly 375,000 adults, students and children visited the DHSC to attend one or more of the youth, high school and junior hockey games, to enjoy physical activities on the ice or turf or to attend one of the corporate picnics and other social events. On a day-to-day basis, it’s the busiest arena in the area.
    
In addition to participants and spectators, the DHSC receives many visitors during the summer months. According to the DHSC’s President & CEO Jerry DeMeo, these visitors include former Duluthians, who just want to see the facility. “They enjoy looking through the historical displays for a photograph of a friend or relative.” said DeMeo. “They also check out the commemorative brick walls searching for the name they know and quite often want to purchase a brick either for themselves or for a family member or friend. They always leave impressed.”
    
DeMeo said that while visitors find the facility itself impressive, they are further impressed to learn that the DHSC was built through a collaboration of public and private funding, with the majority of the funds coming from the private sector. “They are amazed to hear that the DHSC receives no funding at all from tax dollars.” DeMeo said. “Many can’t believe that, in a facility like ours that benefits the entire community, we must operate strictly through user fees and any additional donations we may receive from the private sector. Those from outside the area and unaccustomed to the Duluth tradition of ‘giving back’, claim this is unheard of.”
    
When it was first constructed, the DHSC, as a part of the Clyde Park development project, made a significant difference to the landscape in the Lincoln Park neighborhood. Today, it continues to be the icon for additional neighborhood development but has also carved its own niche in the entire community.
    
DeMeo summarizes the past five years by saying  that even those most skeptical at the start cannot deny that the DHSC has made a positive difference, not only for all those who benefit through its use, but as an economic benefit to the entire community and the surrounding areas. “After all,” said DeMeo, “It’s not possible to think of the Duluth Heritage Sports Center, without first thinking of ‘Duluth’!”

TROY SAGER PROMOTED


Troy Sager

     We're pleased to announce that Troy Sager, a long time DHSC part time associate, has been promoted to Senior Ice Technician. He has accepted this position on a full time basis.
     Troy joined the DHSC staff in September, 2009 as a building maintenance associate. Since that time, he has become proficient in both ice & turf maintenance, including installation and removal of ice sheets. He has also served as the assistant arena manager at Fryberger Arena.
     In addition to his regular duties, Troy will also be assisting with Zamboni operations training for new associates as we ramp up for the coming winter season.

LANDSCAPING PROJECT COMPLETED


A view from the street.

    The unsightly wood mulch, blown about by the wind leaving exposed landscape fabric, is gone. The loose & torn landscape fabric has been replaced and the area is now completely covered with washed rock, supplemented by some distinctive boulders. A border of 6" rocks keeps the smaller rocks from straying into the walking areas. When coupled with the flowering garden area, our entry plaza once again provides a welcoming visual for those who enter our facility.
      Duluth Heritage Sports Center's Harbortown Rotary Entry Plaza has been thoroughly renovated  by Scott Pionk Landscaping. Pionk's crews applied their talents to create this new showpiece, accomplishing the task ahead of schedule and below budget. 
    For additional photos, please click on the "About DHSC" tab.

DHSC TO HOST AREA’S ‘LITTLE WILD” HOCKEY PROGRAM

     This fall, the DHSC will be the site for the “Little Wild” Learn-to –play hockey program. Through the combined efforts of the Minnesota Wild, Minnesota Hockey, CCM, Total Hockey and Minnesota Wild player Charlie Coyle, the program will serve to introduce the game of ice hockey to children who have not participated in an organized hockey program before.
     Each participant will be outfitted from head to toe with Little Wild branded CCM equipment and receive four (4) hours of on-ice instruction for $100. To be eligible to participate, children must be no older than 8 or younger than 5 on August 1, 2014, and must not have previously been registered with a local Minnesota Hockey affiliate.
     Skating lessons are highly recommended before the start of the Little Wild Program. Little Wild participants should be able to skate the width of the ice without falling before they come to the first Little Wild clinic. For more information on skating lessons, please check out your local community education or rinks for classes. 
     Registration opens Tuesday, May 27.  Only 60 participants will be accepted and all must register on line at www.wild.com/littlewild. (no exceptions.)
      The four (4) practices will all be held on each Sunday during September, at 4:30 PM. The dates at the DHSC are September 7, September 14, September 21 & September 28      
     For additional information, please refer to the website: www.wild.com/littlewild.


REGISTRATIONS NOW OPEN MEN'S NO-CHECK HOCKEY LEAGUE (9/17/14)

     Registrations are currently open for Duluth’s Heritage Men’s No-Check Hockey League.  League play will start in November and is open to any team, irrespective of playing talent. Each team is afforded 17 league games with a post-season playoff. The team registration fee is $1,800. 
     
Games are played on Sunday evenings, starting at 6:00 PM. The entry fee includes the cost of referees and score keepers.

Click on the link below to register. 

https://duluthheritage.sportngin.com/register/form/122453498

   Those interested in playing hockey, but currently have no team affiliation, may consider the HockeyFinders Duluth Hockey League for team placement. This league offer a variety of skill levels, including those who can skate but do not have prior hockey experience. Teams play their games at the DHSC on Thursday nights.
    For more information contact HockeyFinders at the link below.

http://www.hockeyfinder.com/duluthhockeyleague

OFF-ICE OFFICIALS SEMINAR DATE SET

Information dated 09/12/14
     
    
The Duluth Heritage Sports Center is pleased to offer the area’s first seminar for off-ice hockey officials. The date is Saturday, October 18, in the DHSC’s Warming House. The event will start at 8:00 AM and will end at noon.
     As the sport of ice hockey continues to evolve, the need for qualified officials, both on and off the ice, is more prevalent than ever before. The DHSC Off-Ice Officials Seminar will be conducted by qualified instructors and is intended to provide familiarity with the time keeper and score keeper responsibilities that are integral to the game of ice hockey. Special attention will be given to new rules and to tracking penalties, both on the clock and the scoring sheet.
     All reference materials will be provided. The registration fee is $65 and includes a continental breakfast. 
     Seminar attendance will be limited to 20, with members of the Duluth Amateur Hockey Association receiving priority consideration. The DHSC will select contractors from those who attend this seminar to fill its off-ice official’s services for the 2014-15 season. The off-ice official's contractor’s fee schedule is as follows:

  • Squirt games (typically 1 hour); per game $15.
  • Pee Wee games (typically 1.5 hours); per game $25
  • Bantam’ Jr. Gold games (typically 1.75 hours); per game $25

     Those wishing to attend the seminar must register on line. Please click on the "Programs/Camps" tab for registration information.  Only credit/debit cards will be accepted as payment for the registration fee.

DHSC OFF-ICE OFFICIALS SEMINAR REGISTRATION SITE

Information dated 09/12/14
     
     
The Duluth Heritage Sports Center is pleased to offer the area’s first seminar for off-ice hockey officials. The date is Saturday, October 18, in the DHSC’s Warming House. The event will start at 8:00 AM and will end at noon.
     As the sport of ice hockey continues to evolve, the need for qualified officials, both on and off the ice, is more prevalent than ever before. The DHSC Off-Ice Officials Seminar will be conducted by qualified instructors and is intended to provide familiarity with the time keeper and score keeper responsibilities that are integral to the game of ice hockey. Special attention will be given to new rules and to tracking penalties, both on the clock and the scoring sheet.
     All reference materials will be provided. The registration fee is $65 and includes a continental breakfast. 
     Seminar attendance will be limited to 20, with members of the Duluth Amateur Hockey Association receiving priority consideration. The DHSC will select contractors from those who attend this seminar to fill its off-ice official’s services for the 2014-15 season. The off-ice official's contractor’s fee schedule is as follows:

  • Squirt games (typically 1 hour); per game $15.
  • Pee Wee games (typically 1.5 hours); per game $25
  • Bantam’ Jr. Gold games (typically 1.75 hours); per game $25

     Those wishing to attend the seminar must register on line. Please click on the "Programs/Camps" tab for registration information.  Only credit/debit cards will be accepted as payment for the registration fee.

Click on link below. 

https://duluthheritage.sportngin.com/register/form/678625748

“WARMTH” ADDED TO DHSC’S WARMING HOUSE (9/25/14)

         In the heyday of youth outdoor skating, no rink was complete without having a “warming shack” as a place to lace up the skates and dry the mittens and no warming shack was complete without having a wood fueled potbellied stove to provide the warmth. Thanks to the a recent gift by the Dennis Hoel family of Duluth,  the DHSC’s Warming House, the area that’s located within Sill Arena and regularly used for parties & meetings, became “official” with the addition of its own potbellied stove.
            The stove is a Peninsular Oak Model 118 that’s been in the Hoel family since it was new. Our best guess puts the age of the stove in the vicinity of 70+ years and, until it was donated to us, it was in usable condition. It now sits in a prominent position in the Warming House, perched upon a brick hearth, complete with a non-functioning chimney for effect.
            Although it will not ever be stoked again, the stove’s presence provides some visual “warmth” to the room and has sparked a renewed effort to add some ambiance to the Warming House. Currently, the DHSC staff is searching through its storehouse of artifacts for items that will add to the “warming shack” theme.
            The posters on the wall on each side of the stove are symbolic of the DHSC’s awards as the “Best Barn” and “Best Ambassador” for the State of Hockey. For more information on these awards, please click on the “news” tab at the top of the page. 

REGISTRATIONS NOW ACCEPTED FOR 2nd Session of the 2014-2015 SOCCER LEAGUE 11/20/14

Contact Barry Chastey Bchastey@css.edu  to inquire about registation

   The Pioneer Park Soccer League, the area's premiere indoor soccer program, is now accepting registrations for 2nd Sessions of the 2014-15 seasons. The second session will operate from 16th ofDecember through the 18th January. The league is open to all area youth (boys & girls) between the ages of 11 and 18. 
     The league will offer three divisions for each gender..12 & under, 14 & under and 18 & under. The number of players on each team will be dependent upon the total registration for each division but team rosters will be structured to ensure playing time for all. While there's no guarantee, very effort will be made to keep friends together on the same team. 
     Each team will play a minimum of 9 regular season games, plus play offs. Games consist of two 22 minute halves. Teams are coached by current or former College of St. Scholastica (CSS) soccer players. All games are are played in Pioneer Park, at the Duluth Entertainment & Conventions Center (DECC).
     Players may now register for the first session by clicking on the link below. Registrations for the second session will open on November 17,
     Please address any questions yo may have about the registration process to the Duluth Heritage Sports Center by calling 218-464-1711 or by e-mail to shari@duluthheritagesportscenter.com
 
Please find the link for the 2nd Session of the 2014 -2015 Registration 

https://duluthheritage.sportngin.com/register/form/024048214

Denfeld Fun Day

Denfeld Fun Skate 2014 Fun time skating with the Denfeld Hunters with all the games and food.

DHSC PARKING LOTS RENOVATED (10/15/14)

     Thanks to generous terms from Sinnott Blacktop, LLC, portions of the DHSC's western parking lots received a new seal coating and new white lines. As the 2014 driveway coating season drew to a close, Scott Sinnott, the firm's Vice President, found his company had too much inventory to carry over the winter months. According to Sinnott, the material doesn't store well for prolonged periods and rather than see it wasted, he thought of the DHSC's parking lot. 
     For a price that covered labor and paint supplies, Sinnott crews repaired all major cracks, sealed the designated portions of the parking lot and laid down new white lines for both general parking and handicapped parking.There was sufficient material to cover the portions along the vacant lot this year, with the larger portion of the lot scheduled for seal coating next summer. 
    In addition to special pricing, Sinnott also provided special terms for payment so that the DHSC could amend its FY 2015 budget to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.
    When you park in our lot and see the new surface and lines, be sure to remember Sinnott Blacktop. They're just another outstanding example of Duluth's business community giving back to make our city a better place.

LSC BOYS HIGH SCHOOL HOCKEY JAMBOREE BRACKETS SET (11-9-15)

            On Tuesday, November 17, the Duluth Heritage Sports Center (DHSC) will once again be the site for the Lake Superior Conference (LSC) Boys Hockey Jamboree. The eight LSC boy’s teams will be divided into two pools, with Superior, Proctor, North Shore and Ashland playing in the early games, while Denfeld, Marshall, Hermantown & Cloquet-Esko-Carlton (CEC) will square off in the nightcaps. The teams were placed into the pools based upon their last season’s standings in the conference. Each team will play three (3) 17-minute periods during the event. 
             In addition to the hockey jamboree, the LSC dance teams from Denfeld, Hermantown, Marshall and Superior, will also be displaying their talents in the Clyde Iron Restaurant Event Center. The dance team performances are planned so as to permit fans to be able to watch both their favorite hockey games and the dance teams.  As an extra enticement for fans to attend both the Jamboree and the dance team performances, the Clyde Iron Restaurant will prepare a soup ‘n salad buffet at a special price of $12. The special will include Clyde’s chicken wild rice soup, salad & a soda, and admission to both the dance team event and the hockey game. The “Dancer’s Dinner” will be available from 6 PM to 8 PM.
         Ticket prices for the hockey games and/or dance team performances alone are $7 for adults and $4 for students. The schedules follow:

LSC BOYS HOCKEY JAMBOREE

SILL ARENA

 

SEITZ ARENA

5:15

Proctor

vs.

North Shore

 

5:00

Superior

vs.

 Ashland

6:00

Superior

vs.

Proctor

 

5:45

North Shore

vs.

 Ashland

6:45

Superior

vs.

North Shore

 

6:30

Proctor

vs.

 Ashland

 SILL ARENA

 

SEITZ ARENA

7:45

Hermantown

vs.

Marshall

 

7:30

Denfeld

vs.

 C-E-C

8:30

C-E-C

vs.

Hermantown

 

8:15

Denfeld

vs.

 Marshall

9:15

Hermantown

vs.

Denfeld

 

9:00

Marshall

vs.

 C-E-C

DANCE TEAM PERFORMANCES

(Clyde Event Center
Activities start at 6:00 PM 

 

HERITAGE HOLIDAY CLASSIC SCHEDULE

MONDAY - December 29th
SILL ARENA - VARSITY

1:00 pm   Game  1          Proctor vs Owatonna

3:00 pm   Game 2           Bemidji vs St. Louis Park

6:00 pm   Game  3          Apple Valley vs SPA & Summit School 

8:00 pm   Game 4           Duluth Denfeld vs Hudson, WI

SEITZ ARENA - JV GAMES

All games will have same pairing but will start 15 minutes later. 
Example: Proctor vs Owatonna will start at 1:15 pm.  

TUESDAY - DECEMBER 30TH

SILL ARENA - VARSITY

1:00 pm Game 5           Game 1 vs Game 2 Losers

3:00 pm Game 6           Game 3 vs Game 4 Losers

6:00 pm Game 7           Game 1 vs Game 2 Winners

8:00 pm Game 8           Game 3 vs Game 4 Winners

SEITZ ARENA   JV GAMES

Same draw except games will start 15 minutes later than varsity.

WEDNESDAY - DECEMBER 31ST

  9:00 am Game 9         Game 5 vs Game 6  Losers

11:00 am Game 10       Game 5 vs Game 6  Winners

  1:00 pm Game 11       Game 7 vs Game 8  Losers

  3:00 pm Game 12  Game 7 vs Game 8 Winners

SEITZ ARENA  JV GAMES

Same draw except games will start 15 minutes later than varsity.

SELECTED NO. 1

MORGAN PARK HOCKEY ARCH TO BE UNVEILED (11/18/15)

     On November 27,  a gathering of former Morgan Park alumni will gather at the DHSC to celebrate the unveiling of the Morgan Park Commemorative Hockey Arch, a montage of photos and clippings that depicts the school’s storied hockey history. The arch was made possible through donations from more than 200 Morgan Park Alumni. 
    After almost 100 years of service, Morgan Park High School closed in 1982, with its current students being relocated to Duluth Denfeld. 
 In its time, the Wildcats developed a number of players who went on to accomplish great things in the sport of ice hockey. Among them is USA Hockey Hall of Famer Larry Ross, who is best known for his stellar coaching career in International Falls, where he won 566 games, taking the Broncos to the Minnesota State High School Hockey tournament 13 times, with 6 championships. Others who had notable Division 1 careers were Jim Liston (1975-78) - Harvard,  and Billy Watt (1967-70) and Jim Watt (1969-72) - Michigan State University. Jim also spent some time with the NHL's St. Louis Blues. 
     The Morgan Park arch will keep the Wildcat hockey memories alive for many generations to come. 

KEIGHLY EVANSON SCORES

Duluth East student Keighly Evanson showed her puck-shooting accuracy when she beat the ‘Hounds “Greg the Goalie” with a wrist shot from the blue line between the 2nd & 3rd period of the East-Apple Valley game. Keighly’s skill with the stick won her a Subway Party Platter, furnished by Northland Subway. East also won the game 3-2. 

'HOUNDS TRAVEL FROM "NO CHANCE" TO "ALMOST"! 3/9/15

     Lakeville North defeated Duluth East 4-1 to earn the Minnesota Boys High School Hockey state championship but, with the 'Hounds not expected to be on the ice at Xcel Energy this year, it's hard to be disappointed with a second place finish.
     East was not supposed to survive the Section AA playoffs. They had quality teams like Grand Rapids and Elk River in the way and most of the experts agreed that there was little chance that the 'Hounds would be among the final 8 at the Xcel Energy Center. 
     After a 5-4 come-from-behind overtime upset of the Elks, the unranked East team, with a record of 14-10-4, was given "no chance" to upset #3 seed St. Thomas. The naysayers prediction seemed to be a sure thing when East was down twice by 3 goals at 3-0 and 5-2. But the "no-quit" kids  once again used their strong work ethic to once again come from behind to defeat the 'Tommies in the quarterfinals 6-5, again in overtime.
      In their semi-final contest, East outplayed the #2 ranked Edina Hornets 3-1 to earn a berth in the finals against the #`1 ranked and undefeated Lakeville North team. While Lakeville North was favored to win that matchup, no one was willing to say the 'Hounds had "no chance". If fact, there were many who felt that East just might pull off another upset. 
     While a 4th championship trophy would have been nice prize to bring back from St. Paul, it's very difficult to be disappointed with the Duluth East's performance during the 2015 state tournament. They made the trip from a team with "no chance" to one that "almost" won the whole thing.
     The DHSC offers its sincere congratulations to the Duluth East Greyhounds. The 2014-15 season was a great trip!

DHSC TO HOST MINNESOTA HOCKEY BANTAM STATE TOURNAMENT (3/2/15)

One week after the Minnesota State High School League champion is decided, Minnesota Hockey's youth teams will take center stage (or ice) to compete in the Minnesota Hockey State Tournaments. 
     This year, the Duluth Heritage Sports Center's Sill & Seitz Arenas will provide the venue for the Bantam AA and Bantam A tournaments. The Duluth Amateur Hockey Association will serve as the host for this three day event, with festivities commencing with a banquet for players and parents on Thursday, March 12, with game action to start of Friday, March 13. The championships in both divisions will be played on Sunday, March 15.
     The competing teams are : Bantam AA - Grand Rapids,  Moorhead, Edina,  Wayzata,  Centennial,  Osseo-Maple Grove, Minnetonka,  Bloomington Jefferson. Bantam A teams are:: St Paul,  Spring Lake Park, Warroad,  Alexandria,  Johnson-Como-NSP,  Cottage Grove,  Edina,  Orono.
     Tournament brackets may be found on the Minnesota Hockey website at http://www.minnesotahockey.org

Ticket prices are:
Adults- Tournament pass (all games) $20; daily admission $10
Seniors/students - Tournament pass (all games) $10; daily admission $8.
Children 10 & under are admitted without charge.
Military appearing in uniform will be admitted without charge.

2015 HERITAGE TIER 1 HOCKEY CLASSIC DATES SET

Pictured above are the Notre Dame Hounds..the 2014 18U Division Winners -

Pictured above are the Notre Dame Hounds..the 2014 18U Division Winners -

     The dates for the 2015 Heritage Tier 1 Hockey Classic are October 30 thru November 1, 2015. The event will again offer competition in both the 16U & 18U brackets and will only invite teams that compete in USA Hockey Tier 1 programs.
     The weekend will again include a UMD men's hockey game and a tour of the William A. Irvin "Haunted Ship". 
     Invitations will be sent within the next two weeks, with a reservation deadline of July 1, 2015. 

FISHING OPENER FOR SOME..."JUNK HUNTING SEASON FOR OTHERS. (5/11/15)

     While many people could be found on Minnesota lakes for the opening weekend of the fishing season, there were also many people who visited Seitz Arena on the hunt for "Junk". The junk hunting season was open during the 7th annual "JUNK HUNT", held Friday, May 8 & Saturday, May 9th at the  DHSC's Seitz Arena.
     The organizer's decision to move its program to a larger venue with more space...both for vendor displays and parking...proved to be a wise one, as a record crowd strolled through the myriad of treasurers, making a serious dent in the displays of vintage, antique and re-purposed items. 
     A poll of the vendors indicated that all were extremely pleased with the facility and the crowd activity and are already looking forward to returning to the DHSC next spring. 

"LITTLE WILD" REGISTRATION BEGINS MAY 26 (4/23/15)

2015 LITTLE WILD LEARN-TO-PLAY REGISTRATION OPENS MAY 26

Program Adds Five New Communities in Youth Initiative Designed to Grow the Game of HockeY

    SAINT PAUL, Minn. - The Minnesota Wild and partners Minnesota Hockey, CCM and Total Hockey announced today that registration for the 2015 Little Wild Learn-to-Play program will open at noon (CT) on Tuesday, May 26 at www.wild.com/littlewild. Due to its success in the first year, five new locations have been added bringing the total this year to 12 participating communities across the State of Hockey.
    
 The initiative is designed to introduce the game of ice hockey at the beginner level by offering a low-cost, low-commitment opportunity in an effort to increase participation in youth hockey and grow the game.
     
"Minnesota Hockey saw another solid year of growth at the 8 & Under level this past season, and I firmly believe the inaugural Little Wild Learn-to-Play program had a lot to do with that," said Glen Andresen, executive director of Minnesota Hockey. "The success of last year's program exceeded our expectations and the feedback from new hockey families was tremendous. Thanks to the Minnesota Wild, CCM and Total Hockey, we'll be adding more hockey communities to the program which will allow the player base in the State of Hockey to keep growing."
     
The Little Wild program will begin in September, when up to 720 youth will have the opportunity to take part. Each participant will be outfitted with gear from head-to-toe and receive four hours of professional on-ice instruction for $100. The program will also promote the importance of regular exercise, team work, and developing leadership skills while having fun experiencing the game of hockey.
     
"We are thrilled the Little Wild Learn-to-Play Program has been so well received," said Minnesota Wild Chief Operating Officer Matt Majka. "It's our mission to create a greater State of Hockey, and together with our valued partners, we are excited to be able to share the game we love with even more children and families across Minnesota."
     
Registration for Little Wild Learn to Play will begin at noon (CT) on Tuesday, May 26 on www.wild.com/littlewild on a first-come, first-served basis for children age five to eight (as of Aug. 1, 2015). The program is open to those who have not already participated in an organized youth hockey team or association. Completion of a learn-to-skate program is suggested in advance of Little Wild participation. Children with any previous hockey league or program experience (including previous Little Wild season) are not eligible to participate in the program.
     
The program at each location will be led by licensed USA Hockey and Minnesota Hockey instructors. Each participant will receive co-branded Little Wild and CCM equipment including skates, a hockey bag, jersey, helmet, gloves, pants, protective pads, hockey socks and a stick. The cost of the program includes all equipment and four hours of on-ice instruction. If not enrolled in the program, Little Wild equipment will still be available for purchase (youth sizes only) through CCM at local Total Hockey locations while supplies last.

LOCATION

RINK

DAY

DATES

TIMES

BEMIDJI*

CITY ARENA OR SANFORD CENTER

THURSDAY

9/10, 9/17, 9/24, 10/1

6 - 7 pm

BLOOMINGTON*

BLOOMINGTON ICE GARDEN

WEDNESDAY

9/9, 9/16, 9/23, 9/30

5:30 - 6:30 pm

COON RAPIDS*

COON RAPIDS ICE CENTER

WEDNESDAY

9/9, 9/16, 9/23, 9/30

5:30 - 6:30 pm

DULUTH

HERITAGE CENTER

SUNDAY

9/13, 9/20, 9/27, 10/4

4:30 - 5:30 pm

EAGAN

EAGAN ICE ARENA

MONDAY

9/14, 9/21, 9/28, 10/5

6:45 - 7:45 pm

LAKEVILLE*

AMES ARENA

THURSDAY

9/10, 9/17, 9/24, 10/1

5:30 - 6:30 pm

PLYMOUTH

PLYMOUTH ICE CENTER

WEDNESDAY

9/9, 9/16, 9/23, 9/30

6 - 7 pm

PRIOR LAKE

DAKOTAH ARENA

WEDNESDAY

9/9, 9/16, 9/23, 9/30

6:20 - 7:20 pm

ROCHESTER*

GRAHAM ARENA

THURSDAY

9/10, 9/17, 9/24, 10/1

6:30 - 7:30 pm

ST. CLOUD

MUNICIPAL ATHLETIC COMPLEX

THURSDAY

9/10, 9/17, 9/24, 10/1

5:45 - 6:45 pm

ST. PAUL

HIGHLAND ARENA

WEDNESDAY

9/9, 9/16, 9/23, 9/30

5:40 - 6:40 pm

WOODBURY

BIELENBERG SPORTS CENTER

WEDNESDAY

9/9, 9/16, 9/23, 9/30

5:30 - 6:30 pm

* new 2015 location
 Visit www.wild.com/pressbox for the latest news and information from the team including press releases, game notes, postgame notes, multimedia content and daily statistics.

Follow the Minnesota Wild on Twitter and Facebook

HIGH SCHOOL HOCKEY 2015-16 SCHEDULES RELEASED (4/29/15)

     The 2015-16 hockey schedules for Duluth's three high school teams was released recently, with 32 games being played on home ice. The Northern Stars season starts on Tuesday, November 10, with Section 7 rival Cambridge-Isanti providing the opposition. The boys season opens on Friday, November 27 with Denfeld taking on against Red Wing, followed by a doubleheader on Saturday, November 28, with East vs. Wayzata at noon Denfeld vs. Bloomington Jefferson  at 2 PM.
     The complete schedules for all three teams may be found by clicking on the "High School Hockey" tab, at the upper left of this page. 

IT'S A "WILD" TIME AT THE DHSC

     On Thursday, June 25, between the hours of 3-4 PM, it's going to be a "WILD" time in the DHSC's Giuliani Hall, as the Minnesota WILD road show comes to town.
     Featured on this year's traveling team are defensemen Matt Dumbo and Jordan Leopold. Former WILD player Wes Walz will also be on hand for the event. Walz played for the WILD from 2000 thru 2008, before retiring to become a sports analyst for FSN North.
     The WILD, with a 46-28 win-loss record, are coming off their best season since 2007, when they won 48 of their 82 games. During their run for the 2015 Stanley Cup, they defeated the St. Louis Blues 4 games to 2 before losing out to the eventual Cup winning Chicago Blackhawks.
     Last year, the WILD Road Show attracted more than 1,200 fans to obtain autographs from WILD players Charlie Coyle and Jason Zucker.
    

NORTHERN STARS NAME NEW COACH


Jaime Kenyon

     Former UMD Bulldog standout Jamie Kenyon has been selected to lead the Duluth Northern Stars Girls Hockey team for the 2015-16 season. 
     Kenyon played for the Bulldogs from 2010 to 2014. She was an Assistant Captain for 2012-2013 seasons and served as Captain for the Bulldogs for the 2013-2014. Her collegiate accolades include WCHA Rookie of the Week and a two-time WCHA Player of the Week selection.
     She was an attendee of the USA Hockey National Team Development Camps from 2005 to 2008 and played for the U18 U.S. Women’s Select Team in 2008 and again 2009, when her team won the Gold Medal during the World Championship.
     Prior to her college career, Kenyon played for the Madison Capitols Women’s Team from 2002 to 2010, serving as the team's captain for 4 years. She was named an Academic All-Star by the Midwest Elite Hockey League and also played Western Wisconsin Blue Devils Boy’s Team from 2005 to 2010.  
     Coaching stints include the University of Minnesota Duluth Youth Hockey Camp and the Duluth Icebreakers. 

DHSC CAMPERS GET SURPRISE VISIT


DHSC Campers pose for a photo with Gordy Seitz (back row, 2nd from right). Gordy & his wife Betsy were the major benefactors of Seitz Arena.

     On Friday, June 26th, the DHSC Sports campers were surprised by a vist from Gordy Seitz...the benefactor for whom Seitz Arena was named.
     Gordy & his wife Betsy provided a very generous financial gift, enabling the DHSC to fit out Seitz Arena as a multi-Sports facility. The campers showed their appreciation with a loud "Thank You Mr. Seitz" cheer, followed by a round of applause.
     Each year on April 1, the ice & hockey boards are removed, replaced by a 200' x 100' synthetic turf surface. The presence of turf makes the facility attractive for a variety of indoor sports in a controlled weather environment. 
     During "turf time", the Boys & Girls Club are the major beneficiaries of the turf but the City of Duluth and area youth soccer programs also use for their programs.
     The ice & boards return by mid-Spetember in time for the hockey season. 

RECORDS SET FOR HERITAGE SUMMER HOCKEY CLASSIC


Teams & coaches gather on the ice for a post-game photo.

     The 2nd Annual Heritage Summer Hockey Classic, featuring most of the area's best hockey players and coached by Kevin Smalley and Mike Randolph, was a record-setting event. Team Smalley won the game in overtime by a 9-8 score but that in itself was not a record. 
     The first record to fall was the line-up, with a record numbers of current professional players (7), current college players (9 Division I; 5 Division III) and Tier 1 Juniors (8). With very few exceptions, it was some of the area's best hockey talent. 
     The second record was the ticket sales, with 510 adult tickets sold (students were admitted free of charge) , versus the old record of 425 and finally, what might be the world record for hockey games, the longest pre-game player introduction ever! But, given the outstanding accomplishments of the players, there was a lot to talk about. 
     Leading the list of professionals was Drew Leblanc, the 2012 Hobey Baker winner and former Chicago Black Hawk, who will be playing in germany for the 2015-16 season. He was joined by Rob Bordson, a member of the American Hockey League (AHL) Chicago Wolves. Adam Krause, who plays with the AHL's Wilkes Barre/Scranton Penguins and Southern Professional Hockey Association players Keehan Flaherty (Pensacola Ice Flyers) and Jake Johnson (Knoxville Ice Bears). Rounding our the pro group was Cloquet's Tyler Johnson and Reid Ellingson, both of whom were coming off stints in Sweden.
     Six (6) of the Division I players were affiliated with teams in the National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC), two (2) with the Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference (ECAC) and one (1) with Hockey East.
     The Tier I United States Hockey League was also well represented by players from the Dubuque Fighting Saints, Waterloo Blackhawks, Lincoln Stars, Sioux City Musketeers and Tri-City Storm.
     Among the four (4) women on the teams was Leah Wrazidlo, a former Duluthian who played college hockey with the UMD women's team but made her mark in hockey wearing the stripes of a referee. Leah officiated in the Women's World Hockey Championships 2007 thru 2009 and worked the women's games during the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, BC. 
    The event was held as a fundraiser for the Ray Peterson Legacy Fund (Fund).  The Fund was launched in 2010 with a generous gift from Russell and Anne Strom. Strom was a member of Duluth's Wheeler Rink, where Peterson served as Director of Activies for more than 33 years. Since that time, the Fund has helped financially challenged youth participate in organized sports activies, supported youth organizations that foster integrity, teamwork and build leadership skills and has assisted high school athletes who aspited to have higher educational opportunities,
     The game's proceeds added an additional $5,100 to the Fund. 

HAPPY 94TH SERTIE


Mark Amil Sertich...getting ready to take his shift on the ice.

July 18, 1921 was a dark day in the history of baseball.  Eight members of the infamous Chicago "Black Sox team, including "Shoeless" Joe Jackson went on trial for their role of throwing the 1919 World Series.
     But it was a bright day for the sport of ice hockey, as Mark Amil Sertich was born. "Sertie", as he became known in later years, celebrated is 94th birthday by playing hockey in Sill Arena with the Duluth Firefighters team, the group his called his teammates since the early 1980s. After an hour of competition, during which he scored a goal and had three assists, the activities moved from the ice to the Warming House for a luncheon and cake. There were more than 50 hockey players on hand to join in with a rousing rendition of "Happy Birthday".
    Sertie had just returned from Santa Rosa, CA where he particpated in the World Senior World Hockey tournament. He played in the 70 & older division and was the oldest player on the ice. Although no statistics are kept regarding the age of hockey players, Sertie is believed to be the oldest hockey player still playing competitive hockey and, just maybe, the oldest ever to play the sport on a competitive level. 
     If you're one of those who think that hockey can't be a "life sport", like golf, tennis & bocce, just ask Sertie. He'll explain the errors in your thought process.
     Happy Birthday Mark! We can't wait for next year's celebration.! 

DULUTH CLASSIC ADULT HOCKEY TOURNAMENT

There's still room for one more team!

    We have nine (9) teams registered for the Duluth Adult Hockey Classic and, to ease the bracket preparation, we'd like to have ten! 
     Registration for this event closes on Friday, September 25, so if you want to be in on the fun, get your team registered today.
    Don't have a team to play with? No problem! Now you can register individually and we will place you on a team. We currently have room for 8-10 players on a team that now has six players, including a goal keeper. You can also register with friends and we'll place you on the same team. This team will be comprised of
 C and D skill level players and the costsi only $49 for three games.
     
For more information and to register today, click on the "Tournaments" tab or visit the Duluth Classic webpage. 

DULUTH CLASSIC ADULT HOCKEY TOURNAMENT

DULUTH CLASSIC ADULT HOCKEY CLASSIC
2015 Tournament Schedule 
             
Date Day Rink Start Level Home Away
10/16/15 Fri Sill 7:00 PM Upper Kodiaks Battle Cats
10/16/15 Fri Seitz 7:30 PM Lower Nighthawks Mosquitos
10/16/15 Fri Sill 8:15 PM Lower Blizzard Zephyrs
10/16/15 Fri Seitz 8:45 PM Lower Sting Left Overs
10/17/15 Sat Sill 10:00 AM Upper Outlaws Kodiaks
10/17/15 Sat Seitz 10:30 AM Lower Mosquitos Zephyrs
10/17/15 Sat Sill 11:15 AM Lower Left Overs Nighthawks
10/17/15 Sat Seitz 11:45 AM Lower Sting Blizzard
10/17/15 Sat Sill 3:00 PM Upper Battle Cats Outlaws
10/17/15 Sat Sill 4:15 PM Lower Zephyrs Left Overs
10/17/15 Sat Seitz 5:15 PM Lower Mosquitos Sting
10/17/15 Sat Sill 5:30 PM Lower Blizzard Nighthawks
10/17/15 Sat Seitz 6:30 PM Upper #2 #3
10/18/15 Sun Seitz 10:00 AM Lower #1 #2
10/18/15 Sun Sill 10:30 AM Upper #1 #2

DHSC CAMPERS ENJOY BUSINESS WEEK ZAM RIDE

Campers Brooklyn & Michael Durfee join Tim Kowalik on an ice resurfacing trip around Sill Arena.

Campers Brooklyn & Michael Durfee join Tim Kowalik on an ice resurfacing trip around Sill Arena.

     During the DHSC's Business Week, summer campers got a chance to learn about making day packs, preparing sepcial food and how arena ice is made and maintained.
     Frost River personnel were on hand to demonstrate the processes they use to make the variety of products they offer and Tom Hanson, Duluth Grill, demonstrated to making of some of his special recipies of gluten-free snacks & lunches.
     On the final day, DHSC Arena Manager Tom Kowalik took the campers on a behind the scenes tour of the Duluth Heritage Sports Center, including the machinery room, where the ice making equipment is kept, and the Zamboni area. Also, each camper was promised a zamboni ride before the end of the camping season.
     While the majority of Business Week was filled with fun & games, the campers all enjoyed the opportunity to exercise their minds as well as their bodies. All agreed it was a great learning experience!

DHSC PROMOTES NON-SPORTING EVENTS


DHSC's Darrell Spencer attends the display table at the C of C New Member Mixer

         On Tuesday, August 18, the DHSC joined with other new members of the Duluth Chamber of Commerce in the New Member Mixer…an event designed for new chamber members to tout their products & services to the community.
           Darrell Spencer & Jerry DeMeo were on hand with photos and information that offered the DHSC’s facility to accommodate social and commercial events of a non-sporting nature. The DHSC display emphasized using Seitz Arena during ice-out periods for company picnics, parties and trade shows.
          The Mixer was well attended and approximately 100 of the attendees dropping their business card for a chance to win a free party package. The winner was Andrea Hammack from Enbridge Energy Company, Inc 

LOWER CHESTER YOUTH HOCKEY CELEBRATES 100 YEARS.


One of the many table displays commemorating Lower Chester youth hockey

     On Saturday, August 31, a group of dedicated Lower Chester alumni assembled at the DHSC  to celebrate a century's worth of youth hockey played at the Lower Chester rink. The event was organized by a dedicated group of volunteers, led by Deb Filipovich, who are committed to keep the memory of one of Duluth's most successful hockey programs alive. 
     All though the attendance was less than anticipated, those who came got to see several displays consisting of photos, jerseys, jackets and other hockey paraphanila spanning the rink's history. Included among the photographs were players like Tommy & Butch Williams who both enjoyed careers in the National Hockey League, as well as many, many others who started their careers on Lower Chester ice.
      In addition, ten former players, including the Butch Williams family and former UMD Bulldog great Benji Wolfe,  assembled on the ice for a typical "rink rat" hockey game, which had become the signature for the neighborhood rink. 
     The evening concluded with coffee & dessert served in the DHSC's Warming House. The celebration continued on Sunday, August 30th, with an open house at the Lower Chester rink. 

IT'S DINNER TIME!

Duluth’s first Pop-Up dinner is coming to town on Tuesday, September 8th.
               According to its organizer, former NHL player Butch Williams, the event is being held to the benefit of the AmberWing and the Miller-Dwan Foundation, organizations that place special emphasis on the benefits of exercise and mental health awareness.  The Duluth Heritage Sports Center Foundation’s Ray Peterson Fund is also named as a beneficiary
      
For those who wonder “What’s a Pop-Up Dinner?” Pop-up dinners often operate from a private home, former factory or similar space, and during festivals. The site for this dinner is a surprise.
       The event, with food donated and catered by the Duluth Grill, will be served in a yet-to-be named iconic outdoor landmark setting within the City of Duluth. Ticket holders will be notified of the site by text message on the day of the event.
            A social hour begins the night from 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM, featuring products from local craft brewers. It will be followed by dinner, accompanied by music by the Maxi Child’s trio.
            Tickets for the event are $75 per person, with limited seating available, and must be purchased in advance through the TicketLeap web site. www.ticketleap.com  and clicking on the Great Fall Harvest Pop-Up Dinner. All proceeds will go to  the named funds.  

DHSC MAKES STRONG "CONNECTION"


Guest speaker Pat Francisco (2nd from right) poses for a "pre-game" photo op with the Chamber's Executive Director, Dave Ross (far right) and other Chamber staff

     On Tuesday, September 12, a record setting crowd of 170 members & guests from the Duluth Chamber of Commerce "connected" at Clyde Iron Restaurant to hear the fascinating story of the Duluth Heritage Sports Center.  Duluth Heritage Sports Center Foundation Chair Patrick Francisco kept the audience engaged in his presentation, starting with a heartstring-tugging video, and continued with his telling of how a collaboration of public and private financing and a team of community leaders & volunteers built one of the finest community centers in the country. The presentation ended with a standing ovation!
     For many, it was the first time they’ve heard this story of how a $20 million project got its start. They learned that 85% of the funding came from the private sector and that today, nearly 90% of the construction debt has been paid. They also learned that, other tan debt service, the facility is able to operate successfully with no burden to the taxpayers.
     During his talk, Francisco called attention to the contractors and sub-contractors who built the facility. He also applauded Beacon Bank as the lead financial institution who helped with the funding. He concluded by recognizing those who he referred to as the project’s “angels”…individuals to provided gifts of $1 million or more to help make the project a realit.
        Let's Connect at Clyde is a Duluth Chamber of Commerce luncheon event that blends education and networking in a relaxed, informal venue. Those in attendance not only had the opportunity to hear from a prominent community leader but to also meet and interact with fellow Chamber members & potential business partners.

FIRST POP-DINNER A "SUCCESSFUL" EVENT

     All 40 people who attended the first-ever ”Great Fall Harvest" pop-up dinner were unanimous with their opinions that it was an event well-worth both their time and money.
     The event was scheduled for a "mystery location", which turned out to be a beautiful setting at the Beach House Veranda at park Point. The weather was excellent and vista of the sand beach and the big lake added to the ambience.
     The food was catered by the Duluth Grill who served an excellent pork & salmon dinner with accompaniments, preceded by hors d'oeuvres and followed with a delicious dessert. As is their trademark, all food was prepared with fresh, locally grown ingredients. With added entertainment provided by the Maxi Childs Trio, the entire evening took on a feel of "elegance" that's rarely found in the Twin Ports.

     According to its organizer, former professional hockey player and local businessman Butch Williams, the dinner served as a fundraiser for two charities who have the primary purpose of serving youth...the Amber Wing Center for Youth and Family Well-being and the Ray Peterson Fund, an entity of the Duluth Heritage Sports Center Foundation that assists youth from financially challenged families participate in organized sports. He plans to make it an annual event.
     The Duluth Grill donated all of the food and the Maxi Childs Trio donated their talents to help this fundraising project. 

DHSC BOARD ADOPTS ADULT BEVERAGE POLICY (09-24-15)

      At it's September 23rd meeting, the DHSC Board of Directors adopted a policy to permit adult-specific beverages (beer & wine) to be served and consumed within the DHSC facility. This policy was adopted in response to a rise in requests for rentals by smaller adult party groups where the service of beer & wine is a part of the hospitality.
     "It's important that we remember we're primarily a place for kids.", stated DHSC President Jerry DeMeo. "We'll be quite specific about where and how adult beverages are served and constantly alert to ensure that the policy established by the Board is strictly adhered to, especially that portion of the policy dealing with security!"
     The protocol for the service and consumption of adult beverages follows:

Adult-specific beverages, limited to beer and wine, may be served within designated areas within the Duluth Heritage Sports Center (DHSC), in accordance with the following protocols:

  1. All adult-specific beverages (beverages) may only be served and consumed during private parties held in the Warming House and/or Seitz Arena and must be served and consumed within those defined rented portion(s) of the facility. Consumption of beverages in public areas of the facility or in any area where a youth activity is in progress is strictly prohibited.
  2. Beverages must be provided and served by a properly licensed caterer (Caterer), approved by the DHSC, who will remove any and all containers, full or empty, upon conclusion of the private party.
  3. The Caterer shall bear full responsibility to ensure that the consumption of beverages is limited to those who are guests of the party and are of legal age to consume alcohol. Further, the Caterer shall diligently refuse to serve beverages to anyone who appears to be impaired.  The Caterer will furnish the DHSC with the requested proof of insurance prior to entering the facility.
  4. Guests are expected to obey all state and local laws governing the purchase, possession, and consumption of alcohol.
  5. The DHSC reserves the right to deny entry to anyone who appears to be impaired and further reserves the right to eject anyone under the age of twenty one (21) who is observed to be in possession of, or consuming alcohol on the premises.
  6. A properly licensed security official or an off-duty police officer must be present to assure that all DHSC requirements regarding the serving & consumption of adult-specific beverages are strictly adhered to.
  7. The DHSC reserves the right to change or modify this policy at any time.

CBS "ON THE ROAD" VISITS DULUTH


Mark Sertich taking a break at home amidst symbols of his on-ice accomplishments

     The highly popular CBS News "On The Road" crew was in Duluth on Friday, October 2 to visit with Duluth's elder statesman for ice hockey, Mark Sertich.
     The CBS crew walked into the DHSC at 8:00 AM. They indicated that filming a 94 year old man who is capable of playing competitive ice hockey definitely has a human-interest attraction and CBS was excited to have the chance to meet with Mark and hear his story.
     In addition to filming Mark in action on the ice, the crew visited with those who skate with him daily and also visited his home. They also took a lot of photos of the DHSC, departing at 4:00 PM, leaving us with "swelled heads" after hearing all of their highly positive comments about our facility.
     They were unsure when the show featuring mark would be telecast but we'll be watching CBS news on until it is. If you miss it live, the "Mark Sertich" show may be seen on line at www.cbsnews.com/latest/evening-news/on-the-road/.

WELCOME MARGARET BACK

     Our Admin team has received a boost with the addition of Margaret Back.  Marge, as she prefers to be called, joins our office support team as a full time seasonal associate. She will assist Shari Olson by performing general office duties, including facilities scheduling.
     Marge has a vast background in both office management and accounting and will strengthen our efforts to provide unmatched customer service. 
     She's a Denfeld graduate and lives in Lake Nebagamon, WI

HERITAGE TIER 1 HOCKEY SHOWCASE PLAYOFF RESULTS (11-1-15)

16 U CONSOLATION CHAMPIONSHIP
     Phoenix Jr. Coyotes 3, Minnesota Magicians 0

16 U THIRD PLACE GAME
     Chicago Fury 2, Madison Capitols 1

16 U CHAMPIONSHIP
      Minnesota Blades 6, Team Wisconsin 5 (Shootout)

18 U CONSOLATION CHAMPIONSHIP
     Sioux Falls Jr. Stampede 3, Minnesota Blades 2 (Shootout)

18 U CHAMPIONSHIP
     Chicago Fury 4, Notre Dame Hounds 1

NOTED OLYMPIC HOCKEY DOC TO VISIT DULUTH (11/11/15)

           Dr. V. George Nagobads, noted sports physician who has served as team doctor for Olympic, college and professional hockey teams, will visit the Duluth Heritage Sports Center on November 27 & 28 to present his recently published “Gold, Silver, Bronze”, an autobiography about his experiences as a “hockey doc”.
           Dr. Nagobads is best known for his role with the 1980 Olympic “Miracle on Ice” hockey team but he also served the teams during the 1968, 1972, 1984 and 1988 Olympics.  He started his medical career in hockey with the 1958-59 Minnesota Golden Gophers team, a post he held until his retirement in 1992. In addition to the Olympics, Dr. Nagobads also served 15 U.S. Men’s National teams over a span of 23 years. He was the team physician for the first ever Women’s National Team, the silver medal winner at the 1990 IIHF World Women’s Championship.
             In addition, 5 U.S. Junior National Teams, 2 Canada Cup Teams, the 1988 U.S. Under-17 Select Team and the 1989 Spengler Cup Team all were under the watchful eye of Dr. Nagobads. Simultaneous to his duties with the Gophers, he was the team physician to the Minnesota Fighting Saints (1973-76) and the Minnesota North Stars (1984-92). In 1984, Dr.Nagobads was named as USA Hockey’s Chief Medical officer, a title he held until 1992. He is a member of the U. S. Hockey Hall of Fame. 
              Dr. Nagobad’s book will be available for sale at the DHSC on Friday, November 27 from 6-9 PM and on Saturday, November 28 from 2-5 PM. The book has been sold on line at the price of $35 per copy but will be available at the DHSC, autographed by the author, for $30 each. 

LPHA MEMBERS TO CELEBRATE RINK MAP COMMEMORATION (11/18/15)


This map indicates the locations of all of Duluth's past & present community outdoor rinks

      On Saturday, December 5th, former members of the Lester Park Hockey Association (LPHA) will gather at the DHSC to celebrate their contribution which helped establish a map of all of Duluth’s past & present community outdoor rinks…37 rinks in all. The commemoration of the map will occur at approximately 1:30 PM, between the 1st & 2nd periods of the Duluth East vs. Andover high school hockey varsity game.  All former LPHA members will be provided with free admission to the game, and treated to some light refreshment in the DHSC’s Warming House. Pre-registration is required by calling 218-464-1711 and speak with either Shari or Marge 
      Under governance of the Duluth Amateur Hockey Association (DAHA), LPHA was located at the easternmost edge of Duluth’s network of neighborhood community hockey rinks (See no. 1 on the map). After more than 60 years, succumbing to the pressures of an aging facility and a declining population, LPHA dissolved in 2012.  The map showing Duluth’s “Outdoor Skating Rinks, Past & Present” was prepared through a generous donation by LPHA to commemorate not only their efforts, but the efforts of all of Duluth’s many volunteers who freely share their time & talents to build & maintain their neighborhood rinks.
       In addition to the Duluth East varsity and JV hockey games, the 2015 “Spirit of Duluth” invitational youth hockey tournament is also being played. Lester Park was the birthplace of the “Spirit”, launched in 1977, which has grown to be Duluth’s most prominent and long-standing youth hockey tournament. The  tournament features some of the finest Pee Wee, Bantam and Midget teams from the entire region and Canada. 

PUG'S CLUB CHRISTMAS PARTY DATE SET (11/30/15)

     It's that time of the year...time when both past & present athletes get together to share memories of the late coach of the Duluth Denfeld Hunters, Frank Puglisi.
     The members of "Pug's Club" and their guests will gather on Thursday, December 10th at the American Legion Post #71, 5814 Grand Avenue for their annual Christmas party. The doors open at 10 AM, with lunch being served at 12:15 PM.
     Guest speaker will be Pat Francisco who will share the unique story of the development of the Duluth Heritage Sports Center.
      The event is open to the public. Registrations are required. Call Richard Landgren - 722-7822 with any questions.

It's that time of the year...time when both past & present athletes get together to share memories of the late coach of the Duluth Denfeld Hunters, Frank Puglisi.      The members of "Pug's Club" and their guests will gather on Thursday, December 10th at

OLYMPIC HOCKEY DOC BOOKS STILL AVAILABLE

     In the event you didn't get to Dr. George Nagobads' book signing event at the DHSC November 27-28, you still have the chance to get an autographed copy before Christmas. 
     Dr. Nagobads was the teams physician for 30+ years, serving 
most of USA's Men's World Championship teams, including the 1968, 1972, 1980, 1984 and 1988 Men's Olympic teams. His most noted claim to fame was serving the 1980 Gold Medal team and being personified on the movie "Miracle", as the shift time keeper during the team's game with Russia. In Doc's book "Gold, Silver Bronze, he affords a unique perspective beyond the rink, sharing both his personal relationships and never-before-seen photos of the players and management personnel with whom he was associated. 
     Through a special arrangement with the author, personalized autographed books may be still ordered by calling the DHSC business office (218-464-1711). The price per book is $30 which must be pre-paid either by check or credit card. You'll be contacted when your book arrives so you may pick it up or you may have it mailed directly to you for an additional $8 shipping and handling.

FREE ICE AVAILABLE FOR DAHA RINKS

     Currently the warm weather is creating an issue for Duluth's outdoor rinks. It's too warm to make ice outdoors which means that the rink teams (Squirt age and younger) are required to move their practices and games indoors, with resultant expense for renting indoor ice.
     The DHSC is anxious to help with this problem and, effective immediately, will make its non-prime time ice available free to rink teams who are willing to practice during either early morning or late evening times.
     For more information, contact us at 218-464-1711. This free ice offer is not available for on-line purchase. This offer will expire as soon as outdoor ice becomes available. 

HERITAGE HIGH SCHOOL HOLIDAY CLASSIC RESULTS

MONDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2015

VARSITY GAMES


SPA & Summit School (4) vs. Mankato West (1)
Eau Claire Memorial (3) vs. Apple Valley (1) 
Owatonna (1) vs. Hudson, WI (2) OT
Duluth Denfeld (0) vs. St. Louis Park (2) 

JUNIOR VARSITY GAMES 

SPA & Summit School (2) vs. Mankato West (6)
Eau Claire Memorial (1) vs. Apple Valley (3) 
Owatonna (1) vs. Hudson, WI (6) 
Duluth Denfeld (4) vs. St. Louis Park (1) 

SCHEDULE, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 29

JUNIOR VARSITY GAMES (Seitz Arena)

SPA & Summit School (1) vs. Eau Claire Memorial (9)
Owatonna (1) vs. St. Louis Park (2)
Mankato West (0) vs. Apple Valley (6)
Hudson, WI. (5) vs. Duluth Denfeld (0)

VARSITY GAMES (Sill Arena)

Mankato West (1) vs. Apple Valley (4)
Owatonna (3) vs. Duluth Denfeld  (4)
SPA Summit School (5) vs. Eau Claire Memorial (3)
Hudson, WI (0) vs. St. Louis Park (3)

SCHEDULE, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015

VARSITY GAMES (Sill Arena)

Mankato West (5) vs. Owatonna (4) OT (shoot-out)
Duluth Denfeld (0) vs. Apple Valley (1)
Eau Claire Memorial (4) vs. Hudson, WI. (2) 
SPA Summit School vs. St. Louis Park - 3:00 PM 

JUNIOR VARSITY (Seitz Arena)

SPA Summit School (0) vs. Owatonna (1)
Eau Claire Memorial (2) vs. St. Louis Park (0)
Duluth Denfeld (7) vs. Mankato West (0)
Apple Valley (1) vs. Hudson, WI (3)

START YOUR SUNDAY WITH PANCAKES. (2/18)

       Fans attending the Polaris-Minnesota Viking $30,000 Prize Party on Sunday, Feb. 21, will want to start their day with a breakfast of pancakes, sausage & beverage, being served from 8:00 AM to 10:30 PM for the benefit of the Boys & Girls Club and the Duluth Heritage Sports Center. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for children 10 & under and may be purchased at the door.
     In addition to enjoying a satisfying breakfast, drawings for special Vikings souvenirs will take place every 30 minutes until 10: AM.
     The Prize Party will take place in the DHSC’s Sill Arena, with the doors opening at 10:00 AM. The Party starts at 11:00 AM and the drawings for the prizes will begin at 11:15 AM. For more information, visit the web site at Vikings.com/wint
erfest. 

POLARIS - VIKINGS WINTERFEST A HUGE SUCCESS (02-22)


The cheerleaders from the Minnesota Viking and the Denfeld Hunters pause for a photo op during the Open Skating Party held on February 20 in Sill Arena

     After a three day event that included visits to several locations from Canal Park to West Duluth, the Minnesota Vikings left town on Sunday, Feb 21, convinced that Duluth was the right place for their 2016 Polaris-Vikings Winterfest.
     In addition to distributing more than $30,000 worth of valuable prizes during their appearances, Minnesota Vikings fans from the Twin Ports, the Iron Range and the South Shore of Lake Superior gathered in Duluth to shake hands and obtain autographs from current Vikings' players, be treated to the wise words of former Viking coach Bud Grant and be entertained by the antics of retired Vikings Benchwarmer Bob Lurtesma and Purple People Eater Doug Sutherland. 
     The Duluth Heritage Sports Center was proud to be chosen as the site for the activities on Saturday , Feb 20th, with a free football clinic conducted on the Seitz Arena turf by former Viking E. J. Henderson as well as several current Viking players. Sill Arena was the site for an open skate with the Vikings cheerleaders and Viktor, the Vikings mascot. The Duluth Denfeld cheerleaders were also on hand to interact with the youth during the skating party. 

     While the youth were engaged in the arenas, the Polaris team was busy trying to conduct their outdoor activities in the DHSC parking lot during the non-traditional February weather. Using straw to temper the muddy areas caused by rain and melting snow, the folks from Polaris did their best to meet the challenge and, despite the weather, managed to put on effective machine demonstrations with Polaris products. 
     The event concluded with a $30,000 Prize Party held from the ice in Sill Arena, with two Polaris snowmobiles given away to two lucky Duluth families. 
      When they returned to the Twin Cities on Sunday, all that was left were the tired bodies and smiling faces of the group of dedicated Vikings staff and volunteers who considered their visit to the Twin Ports area  and the Polaris-Viking Winterfest 2016 to be a huge success.
      We understand that the event will be returning to Duluth in another 4 years and we can't wait for the next opportunity to again host this exciting event.

"SECRET ROSTER" SET FOR HERITAGE SUMMER HOCKEY CLASSIC (6/22/16)

     When the puck drops to start the 2016 Heritage Summer Hockey Classic, those in attendance in the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center (EDHC) will finally get to know who the promised “top talent” will be on the ice. Other than the announcement which promises a hockey game featuring the talents of former pros, college and high school players, only certain EDHC staff members and the team captains who participated in the draft are “in the know” when it comes to the rosters for both teams.
     According to EDHC Community Relations Associate Ken Kolquist, plans call for seven (7) current professional players, sixteen (16) current Division 1 and five (5) Division III collegiate players, six (6) USHL Tier 1 players to be among the 44 players expected for this game. “This is the time of the year when plans aren’t settled for these athletes.” said Kolquist. “We’ve already had two prominent players withdraw because they were returning to their pro or college teams early but we’ve also added some and we expect to put two teams on the  with four lines, 8 defenders and two goalies players each on the ice at game time”.  
     Captains for the teams are former UMD Bulldog hockey standouts Rob Bordson and Adam Krause. Both are currently playing professionally in the American Hockey League.  The coaches are also former Bulldogs. Keith “Huffer” Christiansen will coach Team Krause and Pat Francisco will be the bench boss for Team Bordson. Christiansen & Francisco were line mates from 1963-1967 and played an instrumental role in enabling UMD to move into the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA), which, at the time, was the top college hockey program in the country. In 1967, they combined with Bruce McLeod to become the NCAA’s top scoring line.
     The roster secrecy is attributable to the appearance of current college players and the NCAA strict rules relative to athlete endorsements. While the game will have no commercial support, there is concern that an advanced announcement of the players might be misconstrued as an endorsement of the game. “We’re thrilled that so many of our local top talent players want to be a part of this game.” commented EHDC President/CEO Jerry DeMeo. “We’re taking zero chances that might affect the eligibility of these young men & women who are donating their time & talents for the benefit of youth from financially challenged families”.
     DeMeo said the public should have no concern about getting their money’s worth. He’s so confident in the quality of the game that the EDHC is offering a money-back guarantee. “With the talent we have, those in attendance will be very glad they came to watch.” said DeMeo.  “I’ll be in my office after the game and will gladly refund the price of admission to anyone who feels they didn’t get their money’s worth… or if they want to make an additional donation to the Fund, I’ll be there for that too!”
     The game is scheduled for Monday, June 27th at the EDHC’s Sill Arena Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students, with the entire proceeds going to benefit the Ray Peterson Heritage Fund. Any youth hockey player wearing a hockey jersey will be admitted free, when accompanied by a ticketed adult.
     The Ray Peterson Heritage Fund was established in 2010, launched by a substantial gift from Russell and Anne Strom. Strom played under Ray Peterson’s coaching, both during his youth hockey at Wheeler Field and high school hockey at Denfeld. To date, the Fund has made nearly $8,000 available for youth hockey, youth soccer and scholarships for student athletes. 

NORTHERN EXPOSURE AAA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

The following schedule lists only those games that are played at Sill Arena:

Friday, July 22

10:  00 AM   06 Bakken Oilers vs. Machine Black
11:30 AM    02 Rapid Fire vs. Bakken Oilers
   1:00 PM    06 Colorado Jr. Eaagles vs. Steeldogs Black
    2:30 PM   05 Velocity White vs. 218 Hockey
    4:00 PM   06 Sanford Power Hockey vs. Bakken Oilers
    5:30 PM   05 Machine Black vs. MN Jr. Mavericks
    7:15 PM   06 Northern Storm vs. Breakaway Red
    9:00 PM   05 Colorado Jr. Eagles vs. 218 Hockey

Saturday, July 23,

    8:00 AM   07 Machine Black vs. Wayzata Warriors
    9:45 AM   03 Team Northwest vs. Midwest Muskies
 11:30 AM   HS MN Jr. Mavericks vs. Rapid Fire
     1:15 PM   06 Omaha Tropics vs. Team Northwest
     3:00 PM   05 Machine Black vs. 218 Hockey
     4:45 PM   07 Colorado Jr. Eagles vs. Breakaway Red
    6:30 PM   06 Miracle Gold vs. Breakaway Red
    8:15 PM   05 Steeldogs Black vs. Miracle Black

Sunday, June 24

    7:30 AM   04 Seed 1 vs. Seed 4
    9:15 AM   03 Team Wisconsin vs. Breakaway Red
  11:00 AM   04 9th Place (Seed 9 vs. Seed 10)
  12:45 PM   07 3rd Place
    2:30 PM    06 Championship
    4:15 PM    05 Championship

HERITAGE TIER 1 HOCKEY SHOWCASE DATES CHANGED (03-26)

     The annual Heritage Tier 1 Boys Hockey Showcase was set to take place on October 21-23, 2016 but recently we learned that the North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL) has scheduled a league-wide event for those same dates. Several of our returning teams participate in the NAPHL and , to accommodate them, we've rescheduled the Heritage Tier 1 Boys Hockey Showcase to the weekend of October 14-16, 2016. 
     We always expect some of the best 16U and 18U teams from throughout the U.S and Canada and we trust that by eliminating the schedule conflict, we'll see them all back for our 2016 Showcase. We will accept eight (8) teams in each age classification, with a minimum four game guarantee, plus a championship & consolation round. All games will be played at the AMSOIL Arena, the DECC Arena and the Duluth Heritage Sports Center.
     Last year, the 16U championship was won by the Minnesota Blades after a close battle with Team Wisconsin. The Chicago Fury, coached by former UMD great Dennis Vaske, took home the 18U honors. Both are expected to return for this year's event.
     Invitations have been sent to prospective teams this week. For further information, please click on the "Tournaments" tab or  contact 
http://jerry@duluthheritagesportscenter.com

SEITZ ARENA ROCKS...BUT NOT HERE!!!

Thursday,  September 8 - 7:00 PM

  • 7  GREAT BANDS FOR YOUR ENTERTAINMENT
  • SPECIAL MEET & GREET BEFORE THE CONCERT

SPECIAL NOTICE

This concert which was originally scheduled to be held in Seitz Arena has been relocated. For additional information, please contact the concert's promotor, Bob Monahan - phone: (218) 341-0793


CITY TURF TIME>

"ON AGAIN-OFF AGAIN" HOCKEY SHOWCASE NOW IS ON!

     After a series of "light switch" moves (on again-off again) the 2016 Heritage Tier 1 Hockey Showcase, scheduled for October 14-16, is now "ON"  again...at least at the 18U level. After a series of teleconferences, an accord was reached which will find five (5) 18U teams participating in the event. They are: Sioux Falls Jr. Stampede, Notre Dame (Sask.) Hounds,  Thunder Bay Kings, MInnesota Magicians and the Northern Wings. The schedule for the event may be found on the "Tournaments" Section.
      While the Showcase won't have the desired depth, we're very pleased that we were able to arrange an accommodation for those teams who would have suffered schedule voids with quality competition in an acceptable manner.

BANTAM AA TEAMS VISIT DULUTH (10/13/160

     The Duluth East Bantam AA team will determine its 2016-17 roster this weekend as the 'Hounds prepare to face some formidable competition from local and metro area teams.
     The weekend starts on Saturday, Oct. 14 at 9:00 AM,  with a local rivalry game between East and Hermantown, followed by a contest between Centennial and Osseo-Maple Grove at 11:00 AM . During the afternoon sessions, the 'Hounds will take on Osseo-Maple grove at 4:00 PM and the Hawks and Centennial will face off at 6:00 PM . 
     During their free time, the teams will be invited to visit the William A. Irvin Haunted Ship.
     On Sunday, Oct. 15, all four teams take to the ice at 8:00 AM, with East taking on Centennial and Hermantown facing Centennial. The early start is intended to enable the metro area teams to get an early start for home.
      The games are fee-free for all of the teams, compliments of the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center but there will be an admission charge at the door to help offset the cost for game officials and emergency medical technicians.  Admission is $7 for adults and $4 for students & seniors.
    

Sioux Falls Is 2016 Heritage Tier 1 Hockey Showcase 18U Champs.(10/16/16)

     The Sioux Falls Jr. Stampede scored early in the first period on a goal by forward Nick Behrend and never looked back as they skated to a 5-1 victory over the Notre Dame Hounds in the 2016 Heritage Tier 1 Hockey Showcase.  The Jr. Stampede's Josh Fricks added 2 goals and an assist to aid the winning cause.
      Sioux Falls was  bolstered by some solid goaltending by Brandon Dornfeld, who lost his bid for a shutout when the Hounds scored midway thru the 3rd period. 
     This was the 5th year for the Showcase and the 2nd visit to the by Sioux Falls. Notre Dame returned for the 3rd time, taking the 18U championship in 2014 and finishing 2nd last year.
     In the Consolation game, Thunder Bay defeated the Minnesota Magicians also by a 5-1 score. 
     Please see the "Tournaments" section for the scores of all games. 

2016 "BOO BASH" HUGE SUCCESS!


Party-goers were fascinated by the skills of a master pumpkin carver.

     Nearly 300 youth & their families celebrated Halloween early this year by attending the City of Duluth's BOO BASH, an event that provided a variety of activities for youth of all ages from ice skating to face painting and just about everything in between.
     This year's party had an added glow, with special lighting  effects provided through a gift from Alerus Bank. Party-goers were greeted at the entry by Gus the Ghoul  and had to pass under a scary giant blue spider to gain entry to the fun & games. Once inside, the bravest made tracks to tour the Haunted Locker, before donning their skates. After a few trips around the ice, there was pumpkin carving, pumpkin painting and, of course, treats galore. 
     No Halloween party could be complete without a costume contest, with the youth sporting a variety of commercially available garb to some very creative home-made ideas. Contest winners received valuable gifts, provided by the event's co-sponsors...the Boys & Girls Club, the Children's Museum and the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center.
     Next up is the Thanksgiving Celebration on Wednesday, November 23.

LSC BOYS HOCKEY JAMBOREE & DANCE TEAM PRESENTATION UPDATE (11/20/16)

     On Tuesday, November 22, the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center (EDHC) will once again be the site for the Lake Superior Conference (LSC) Boys Hockey Jamboree. The eight LSC boy’s teams will be divided into two pools, with Superior, Proctor, North Shore and Ashland playing in the early sessions while Denfeld, Marshall, Hermantown & Cloquet-Esko-Carlton (CEC) will square off in the nightcaps. The teams were placed into the pools based upon their last season’s standings in the conference. Each session is a full 17 minutes, stop time, which better assimilates game conditions while allowing coaches some extra time to view player performance in a competitive situation.
     In addition to the hockey jamboree, the LSC dance teams from Denfeld, Hermantown, Marshall and Superior, will also be displaying their talents in the Clyde Iron Restaurant Event Center. The dance team performances are scheduled so as to permit fans to be able to watch both their favorite hockey games and the dance teams.  
     Ticket prices for the hockey games and/or dance team performances are $7 for adults and $4 for students & seniors. The schedules for the Jamboree follows:

LSC BOYS HOCKEY JAMBOREE

SILL ARENA

 

SEITZ ARENA

5:30

Proctor

vs.

North Shore

 

5:15

Superior

vs.

Ashland

6:10

Superior

vs.

Proctor

 

5:55

North Shore

vs.

Ashland

6:50

Superior

vs.

North Shore

 

6:35

Proctor

vs.

Ashland

 SILL ARENA

 

SEITZ ARENA

7:45

Hermantown

vs.

Marshall

 

7:30

Denfeld

vs.

Cloquet-Esko-Carlton

8:25

Cloquet-Esko-Carlton

vs.

Hermantown

 

8:10

Denfeld

vs.

Marshall

9:05

Hermantown

vs.

Denfeld

 

8:50

Marshall

vs.

Cloquet-Esko-Carlton

 

DANCE TEAM PERFORMANCES –STARTING AT 6:00 pm

(Clyde Event Center

 

HERITAGE TIER 1 HOCKEY SHOWCASE SCORES - 2016

Friday, October 14
8:00 AM    Notre Dame 4, Sioux Falls 3
10:  AM      MN Magicians 7, Northern Wings 4
1:00 PM     Notre Dame 2, Thunder Bay 2
3:00 PM     Sioux Falls 6,  Northern Wings 2
6:00 PM     Thunder Bay 4, MN Magicians 2

Current Standings - October 14, 2016
                                               W   L  T   Pts.   GF   GA   Dif
1. Thunder Bay               1   0  1      3       6       4      2
2. Notre Dame                1   0   1     3       6       5       1
3. Sioux Falls                    1   1   0     2       9       6        3      
4. MN Magicans             1   1   0     2       9       8        1
5. Northern Wings        0   2   0    0        6     13       7

Saturday, October 15
Notre Dame 4,  MN Magicians 3
Sioux Falls 4, Thunder Bay 2
Notre Dame 4, Northern Wings 3
Sioux Falls 5, MN Magicians, 4
Northern Wings 5, Thunder Bay 5

Final Standings - October 15, 2016
                                               W   L  T   Pts.   GF   GA   Dif
1. Notre Dame                3   0   1     7       14   11     3
2. Sioux Falls                    3   1   0     6       18     14    4 
3. Thunder Bay               1   1  2      4       13    13      0    
4. MN Magicans             1   3   0     2        16    17   -1
5. Northern Wings        0   3   1    1        14    22     -8

Sunday, October 16

Third Place:     Thunder Bay 5,  MN Magicians  1
Championship:  Sioux Falls 5, Notre Dame 1

    Monday, June 27, 2016 has been set as the date for the 2016 Heritage Summer Hockey Classic, an event which raises funds in support of the Ray Peterson Legacy Fund. The 2016 Classic will once again feature former pros, college, junior and high school players who will display their talents on the ice, with the entire proceeds from the evening going to benefit the Fund. Game time has been set for 7:30 PM.
     
In last year’s Classic, Team Smalley, coached by Denfeld High School Boys Hockey coach Kevin Smalley, eked out an 8-7 overtime victory over Team Randolph, the group coaches by Duluth East Boys Hockey coach Mike Randolph.
     
The 2015 Classic raised over $5,000 directly from the game and without any commercial support, to help youngsters from financially compromised families participate in organized sports or to further their education. The Ray Peterson Fund was established in 2010, launched by a substantial gift from Russell and Anne Strom. Strom played under Ray Peterson’s coaching, both during his youth hockey at Wheeler Field and high school hockey at Denfeld. To date, the Fund has made nearly $10,000 available for youth hockey, youth soccer and scholarships for student athletes.
     Tickets will be on sale starting Wednesday, June 1, in the DHSC Business office. 

 

#

 

IT'S TIME TO GET THE "SPIRIT"

          The “Spirit of Duluth” youth hockey tournament will launch its 39th consecutive season this weekend (December 2-4). 40 teams competing in three divisions will descend on our community to participate in one of the premiere youth tournaments in the country. The tournament has three classifications:  PeeWee AA (16 teams), Bantam AA (16 teams) and Junior Gold A (8 teams). The puck drops at 8:00 AM Friday, Dec. 2 with the championship games being played on Sunday.
            The tournament takes place in six different arenas and admission is free for all ages. For schedules and more information, visit www.spiritofduluth.com

"JUST FOR FUN" HOCKEY LEAGUE CANCELLED (12/5/16)

     "Wait 'til next year" became the new motto for the Just For Fun Hockey League. As of December 5, only one player indicated an interest in the opportunity and, according the the program's organizers, "One ain't enough" to make the program happen. 
     The program was originally scheduled to start on Sunday, November 20, at 7:00 PM in the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center’s (EDHC) Seitz Arena but, because no one registered for the program, the start-up was delayed until after the holidays.
    According to ESDC president, Jerry DeMeo, the delay didn't help.    " We're just not getting any interest.", said DeMeo. "We still think there are youth that will want to participate in a program like this, so we'll put it on the shelf for now and bring it out again next year."

MINNESOTA HOCKEY SCHEDULES QUICK-CHANGE GOALIE EQUIPMENT GIVE-AWAY. (12/28/16)


Quick-Change goalie gear includes pads & chest protector, jersey and carrying bag.

     On Tuesday, January 3, representatives from Minnesota Hockey will be at the EDHC to provide Mite aged players (8 & under) to become familiar with what it’s like to be a goalie.  Minnesota Hockey purchased two sets of Quick-Change goalie gear from Total Hockey for each of their affiliated associations. The gear includes leg pads, as well as a jersey/chest protector, all of which fit easily over a Mite player’s regular gear. The goaltending equipment is easily transferrable to other kids on the ice, which allows many kids to try goaltending in one practice session.
     Each of if the Minnesota Hockey affiliates in District 11, including all of Duluth’s neighborhood rinks, will be receiving two sets of the Quick Change equipment, compliments of Minnesota Hockey, USA Hockey and Total Hockey. The equipment distribution starts at 6 PM. 
     
Once the equipment has been distributed, the players will take to the ice in Sill Arena to try out their new equipment and have the chance to face some shots. The “quick-change” feature of this new gear means that each player will get the chance to feel what it’s like to be a goaltender.  It is expected that some “Celebrity” goalies will be on hand to help with this event.
     
For additional information, please contact the DAHA office (218-728-8000) or check out the Minnesota Hockey web site at www.minnesotahockey.org.

EDHC TO CELEBRATE "PREDATORS" DAY


Youth from the Duluth East, Duluth Denfeld PeeWees and the Icebreakers 12U teams surround a photo of Herb & Barbara Fritch.

     During Saturday's (2/11) hockey game between the Duluth East Greyhounds and Maple Grove,  the EDHC will again don  the gold & blue hockey jerseys, symbolic of the Nashville  Predators NHL hockey team.
     The jerseys are worn in honor of the major owners of the Predators, former Duluth East Alumnus Herb Fritch &  his spouse Barbara who, through the Herbert A  Fritch Family Foundation, made a significant contribution to help make Duluth Heritage Sports Center reality.
    During the game, the last regular season home game for the 'Hounds, the fans will also recognize their six graduating seniors.

MARK SERTICH PERFORMS ON INTERNATIONAL STAGE

Feb. 20, 2017

     Duluth's own Mark Sertich has gained some international prominence as the prime subject in a commericial campaign that emphasizes health among seniors. 
     Mother London, a world renown advertising agency, with offices in London, New York and Buenos Airies,  who created the campaign, was in town last week filming Sertie during his daily routine both on and off the ice.
      At age 95, Sertie is featured in the Guiness Book of World Records as the oldest athlete playing competitive hockey and made a perfect subject for the commercial. 
     The campaign was prepared for Nokia and is not planned to be aired in the United States but Sertie will receive a copy of the commercial and plans to share it with the community. 

MARK SERTICH PERFORMS ON INTERNATIONAL STAGE

March 10, 2017

     Duluth's own Mark Sertich has gained some international prominence as the prime subject in a commericial campaign that emphasizes health among seniors. 
     Mother London, a world renown advertising agency, with offices in London, New York and Buenos Airies,  who created the campaign, was in town recently, capturing  Sertie on film during his daily routine both on and off the ice.
      At age 95, Sertie is featured in the Guiness Book of World Records as the oldest athlete playing competitive hockey and made a perfect subject for the commercial. 
     The campaign was prepared for Nokia and is not planned to be aired in the United States but you may see it by clicking on the attached link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFfNWxwddkk&feature=youtu.be 

A NEW LOOK FOR THE HOME TEAM PLAYERS BENCH


The Duluth Northern Stars in action against Mound-Westonka, with the team identification sign & bench sponsor's banner displayed.

     Thanks to a promotional investment by Whole Foods Co-op, Duluth's high school hockey teams now truly have a "home team" bench. When Duluth East played Minnetonka on Saturday, Jan, 7, the team's players bench displayed a sign that highlighted the school's name & logo. There is now a sign for each high school team that will be displayed behind the bench when the team is in action.
     Whole Foods Co-op recently became the sponsor for the signs to place special emphasis on having a home rink advantage"for the teams. While it's unlikely that anyone was confused as to which team was which, having the team's name on the bench is like  each team having its own identity. 
     "With three high school teams sharing the rink, it's always been challenging to have an individual identity for each one," commented EDHC's Community Relations Associate Ken Kolquist. "When the folks from Whole Foods Co-op selected us as a business promotional partner, they were attracted by the home team bench and helped us find a solution. We're very proud to have  the Whole Foods Co-op on board."

ROBERTSON CUP SUCCESS A TRIBUTE TO OUR COMMUNITY

 The 2017 North American Hockey League (NAHL)Robertson Cup event, held at the EDHC  May 11-14, was by most metrics, a very successful event.  Initially, the NAHL was concerned about holding their national championship at a site not noted for its easy and cost-effective "transportation" but a visit to the city in October, 2016, quickly convinced NAHL president & commissioner Mark Frankenfeld that, despite the access deficiencies, Duluth had the "right stuff" to serve the league's needs  to host the Cup.
     While we at the EDHC were very proud that our facility was chosen as the site for the Cup, we know the event could not have happened without the generous support of a broad spectrum of our community-minded leaders in the hospitality industry. For example:

   VisitDuluth  planned a vital role in helping the NAHL secure lodging and provided financial enticement to compensate for the some of the expenses associated with locating the event away from a community with major airline service.
     The Holiday Inn & Suites - Downtown Waterfront provided an excellent accommodations for meetings,  lodging and food that was consistent with the NAHL's budget.
     Stewart-Taylor Printing was selected as the official printer for all of the NAHL's needs for banners, programs and other materials and was responsive to all of their printing and sign needs, despite several last minute changes and additions...a service that might not have been so readily available in larger metropolitan areas.
     Hospitality for visiting college & professional scouts, VIPs and media was provided throughout the four day event. Dinner was served daily courtesy of the Duluth Grill, Black Woods and Clyde Iron Restaurant, while snacks & beverages were available all day long through donations from Bernick's Beverages, Frito-Lay, Super One and Upper Lakes Foods, all served on tableware supplied by Twin Ports Paper. Krenzen Auto Company provided the use of courtesy cars for NAHL VIPs to help offset the need for car rentals for those flying into the Twin Cities. Thanks to Krenzen, they all made the trip in one van, using courtesy cars for transportation while in Duluth. 
     The hockey games themselves were very competitive and highly entertaining. Three of the six games played were decided in overtime. Two others had scores which included open-net goals being scored within the last two minutes of the game.  
     The only area that didn't measure us to expectations was the crowd, especially during the Championship game  when only 300 fans gathered to watch the Lone Star Brahmas (Texas) and the Aston Rebels (Pennsylvania).  But, considering that the game was played on Mothers Day and during the opening weekend of fishing, maybe having attracted 300 to watch two teams from out of the area would have to be considered another "win" for Duluth.
     At any rate, the measure is always based on customer satisfaction and, despite the small crowd,  the NAHL was satisfied...and invited us to submit a proposal for both the 2018 & 2019 Robertson Cup events.
     Stay tuned for more information!

HERE COME THE 'TOPPERS


Above is a preliminary rendition of the Duluth Cathedral Hilltopper arch. Selection of photos and information for the final rendition is currently underway.

June 14, 2017
     When the EDHC was first planned, the five arches on the east wall of Sill Arena were designated to commemorate the hockey heritage of Duluth's five high schools...in alphabetical order: Cathedral, Central, Denfeld, East and Morgan Park. The plan was established with fundraising in mind and the alumni from each school was asked to make contributions to help fund their arch, with perhaps a bit left over to help the EDHC manage its construction debt. 
     Central was the first to respond in 2011, at a time when the school knew that it would be closing its doors. Denfeld came next, followed by East and then, in 2015,  Morgan Park. The Cathedral arch remained vacant largely due to the fact that, while Cathedral was technically closed and the school's name retired, the Marshall School immediately took its place and its nickname , affording some continuity to  the Hilltopper tradition.
      But recently, a group of Cathedral alumni led by Anita (Benda) Stech, Michelle (Landre) Hooey and Larry Trachsel have undertaken the challenge to make the arch commemorating the strong Cathedral hockey tradition a reality. They have a goal of completing their work so as to have the arch ready for commemoration prior to the start of the 2017-18 hockey season.  Although there has not been an official launching of the project, funds have already been pouring in.
     'Topper alumni who want to learn more about this project are welcome to contact the EDHC business office, either by phone (218) 464-1711; ext. 102) or by e-mail (jerry@duluthheritagesportscenter.com).

DULUTH CATHEDRAL ARCH TO BE DEDICATED

 01-03-18
     On January 16,  a small group of former Duluth Cathedral alumni will gather at the EDHC to dedicate the newly installed arch that honors the Hilltoppers storied hockey history.
     The dedication will take place prior to the start of the Duluth Denfeld - Duluth Marshall hockey game. Alumni will gather in the Warming House at 7 PM, with the dedication taking place at approximately 7:15.  Coffee & cookies will be served before & after the arch dedication.
     The arch consists  a montage of photos and clippings that depicts 'Topper teams of the past, highlighting the years when they dominated the hockey scene on both the state and local level, 
      The arch was made possible through donations from a small group who felt it fitting & proper that DCHS teams have their rightful place among the other Duluth high schools.
     There are also a limited number of free tickets to the game, available on a first-come, first-served basis. You may reserve  a ticket by calling Marge (218-464-1711; ext. 100) on the day of the game.

OFFICIALLY AMAZING

     That's the title by which Mark Sertich is recognized throughout the hockey world as he sets another 'mark" for future generations. Sertie still skates most days with a gathering of friends, some who are less than half his age, and is making plans for the 2018 Snoopy World Hockey Tournament. No one doubts he'll keep those plans for years to come. 


Ray Peterson Legacy Fund

IN MEMORY OF A VERY DEAR FRIEND.

    Bryan T. Flaherty, founder of the Black Woods Group of eateries and staunch supporter of the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center, passed away on March 5, 2019.
    Bryan was a charter member of the Duluth Heritage Sports Center’s Board of Directors, serving two three year terms, between 2006 & 2011. He was a passionate advocate for our project, extremely instrumental in engaging members of Duluth’s hospitality industry to join with him to raise more than $500,000 to help with construction costs. In addition, through his Black Woods Restaurants, Bryan personally hosted many informative luncheon meetings to which the business community was invited, to apprise them of the Center’s progress and encouraging them to also become contributors.
     We’ll miss Bryan…his humor, his passion and his inspiration… but, for as long as the Center stands, he will never be forgotten!

ESSENTIA DULUTH HERITAGE CENTER ANNOUNCES UNPRECEDENTED GIFT FROM TODD & SUSAN JOHNSON

ESSENTIA DULUTH HERITAGE CENTER ANNOUNCES UNPRECEDENTED GIFT FROM TODD & SUSAN JOHNSON TO HELP SUSTAIN THEM THROUGH THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC Duluth, MN — When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March of 2020, the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center faced a seemingly impossible financial challenge. For over a decade the Center had prided itself on running like a business and now, like so many other local businesses, the Center was facing a dire financial future. The Essentia Duluth Heritage Center was created to inspire and empower Northland youth to become the best that they can be. And it was in this moment of uncertainty that a northland family stepped up to show leadership and community support in an unprecedented way. Their gift spanning 16 months will carry the operations of the Center through the current pandemic. The Johnsons have been significant community supporters for over three decades. In addition to their entrepreneurial efforts, they have also been remarkably generous in financially supporting several nonprofit enterprises in our area. They have long been impressed by the community’s creation and support of the Heritage Center. They endorse the Center's mission of citizenship, personal responsibility and community. Still, it came as a surprise when Pat Francisco, he Center’s Foundation Chair, received a call from Todd Johnson. “He called me out of the blue,” Pat said, “and asked about our organization’s current stress level. I told him, honestly, that it was on yellow and trending to red.” That was all Todd needed to hear. “Maybe I can help,” Todd said. In a moment of nationwide instability and uncertainty, a family in our community has once again stepped up to support the work of the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center, continuing the proud legacy of Jerry DeMeo and the late Dick Loraas. “The Essentia Duluth Heritage Center is a community treasure,” said Todd Johnson. “Like so many other businesses impacted by this time, they had expenses that needed to be paid. We thought it was important that someone from our community — someone who has been blessed with the resources to help — step in to do so and help them keep their crucial mission going.” “It’s so important that people with the resources to do so give back to the community we all call home,” said Todd. “We can be a force for good and show vital organizations that, when the chips are down and the future is not certain, there are people who will step forward and help” “The Johnsons saw a community need and they took action,” said Pat. “They acted on their love of this community and its care for our children. “We sincerely thank the Johnsons for their charitable leadership at such a critical time.” The Johnsons, in their crucial support of the work of the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center, are a real-life example of the words of Franklin Roosevelt when he said “we cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future." About The Essentia Duluth Heritage Center Completed in 2008, the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center is a facility which provides an environment that inspires and promotes a healthy lifestyle through diverse, quality opportunities with special emphasis on youth sports and the programs of the Boys and Girls Club. About the Duluth Heritage Sports Center Foundation The Duluth Heritage Sports Center Foundation exists to support the mission of the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center and to promote the values that encourage personal responsibility and citizenship.

WATCH! 'Wild' night for North Shore and Duluth East youth hockey players

Follow the link in the image above to see The Minnesota Wild's full production brought to the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center for local youth players to enjoy.