Behind the Scenes – Lumberjacks Make a Comeback
Hockey is part of the Muskegon psyche. Over the last fifty years, Muskegon, and the Walker Arena have been home to many championship hockey teams, both with the Muskegon Lumberjacks, and more recently with the Muskegon Fury. After 16 years of Fury Frenzy, Muskegon is about to experience a blast from the past with this year’s pro team, the comeback Muskegon Lumberjacks. The change back to the Lumberjack identity was initiated by new owners Stacey Patulski, Jeff Patulski, and Tim Taylor. All three see the move as a way to re-kindle excitement with a focus on Muskegon’s rich hockey tradition. Muskegon Main Street caught up with Stacey, also an owner of the local Sport Clips franchise, to hear about the plans for the upcoming season.
MS: How is the community reacting to the return to the Lumberjack name? 
SP: I've received more compliments about the return of the Lumberjack name than expected. It seems the loyal connection with the Lumberjack name is due to it's reference to the Muskegon area’s heritage. Of course the younger generation of hockey fans have only known the Fury, and some of them are a little saddened.
MS: The season starts this week. Is the team ready to rock n’ roll? 
SP: Tim Taylor, General Manager and Bruce Ramsey, Coach have assembled an impressive roster. They've been using all their connections to attract some highly talented additions to our returning foundation. Teams will not be excited to visit the LC Walker Arena this year as this is going to be physically tough hockey team.
MS: We hear there will be a Street Party to usher in the new season prior to Saturday’s opener. What’s on tap? 
SP: Yes, there will be a Street Party with activities running from 2pm to 7pm. There will be FREE kids games and activities, sponsor givaways, vendor foods, beer tent, DJ, Live Radio Remotes and Street Performers. The Lumberjack staff will continue adding to this list through-out the week.
MS: What other exciting twists are the Lumberjacks planning for the upcoming season?
SP: This Lumberjacks organization is committed to our fans and sponsors this season. We'll roll out some new exciting fan experience opportunities, special guest appearances and game night activities as the season gets underway.
MS: Any prediction on how many games the team will win? Thinking championship at all?
SP: Our focus is to bring the Turner Cup back to Muskegon in 2009.
MS: Over the years hockey has been an important economic activity downtown Muskegon. Fans have supported our community arena, along with downtown restaurants and shops, and we are grateful for your investment in Muskegon hockey, which will allow that tradition to continue. Best of luck, and we hope the team gets off to a winning start Saturday.
SP: This is the community’s team and we look forward to providing them the quality fan experiences they deserve, on and off the ice. This organization is here for the fans and their feedback is always welcome.
Check it out on the web
Muskegon Lumberjacks website
Become a Fan on Facebook
posted by Dan & Sarah @ 12:36 PM
0 Comments
