Stadium Series alumni event unveiled

Ex-Blackhawks to face North Star/Wild alums outside

Since the moment the Minnesota Wild was granted its first outdoor game, a Sun. Feb 21, 2016 NHL Stadium Series clash with the Chicago Blackhawks, the inclusion of an alumni event among the weekend’s festivities has been the subject of speculation.

In fact, immediately after the official announcement, Minnesota Wild Chief Executive Officer Matt Majka opened the door to the possibility when he said, “I think our fans might want to see Secord and Ciccarelli back on the ice for a day or two.”

As of today, that wish has been granted.

Former Minnesota North Stars defenseman Brad Maxwell revealed this morning that a team featuring a mix of North Star and Wild alumni will square off against a squad of former Chicago Blackhawks greats on Sat. Feb. 20, 2016 at TCF Bank Stadium on the campus of the University of Minnesota.

Maxwell’s announcement came as a guest on 1500 ESPN radio’s Mackey and Judd program which was broadcast live from Prestwick Golf Club in Woodbury, the site of today’s Minnesota NHL Alumni Golf Classic.

The physical blueliner, famous for his southpaw fighting style, told hosts by Phil Mackey and Judd Zulgad the home roster will include prominent names such as Neal Broten, Dino Ciccarelli, Mike Modano, Craig Hartsburg, Jack Carlson, Curt Giles, Bobby Smith, Basil McRae, Willi Plett, Gilles Meloche and Don Beaupre. Maxwell added that a Blackhawks contingent consisting of Denis Savard, Ed Belfour and fan favorite, Al Secord, is expected.

Although not formally announced, former Wild players could potentially include Brian Rolston, Mark Parrish, Wes Walz and Andrew Brunette.