Taz Boy

That was sweet. Without question a nicely done rhetorical "su-fi". taz digs it

This is exactly what gets me emotionally involved with the issue. To those who are not at all connected with UND, Grand Forks, or North Dakota, they see this as "What's the big deal? Just drop the name." But, in doing so, UND then admits guilt to these ridiculous charges of hostility, abuse, and racism. In particular, it admits that all of us who love the Fighting Sioux do so in a manner that is outright hostile and abusive to our Native American residents. This cannot go unchallenged. And, for that I applaud Kupchella's resolve. Even more chilling to me is the following from David Gipp, president of the United Tribes Technical College in Bismarck, I read in this ESPN article... So, ultimately it comes down to Cosmic Justice. The NCAA is now in the business of reparations for events centuries ago. Absolutely ridiculous. As uncomfortable as I feel knowing a lawsuit can only hurt UND's image, I think it must be done. The name-changers have now taken this from a petty debate of name usage and turned it into a mandate that the minority must rule unconditionally. There was so much opportunity to work with the tribes to resolve this locally. More money, educational programs, and student awareness... perhaps even dropping the "Fighting" portion of the name. But, no, none of this is acceptable. The minority crowd thinks that "being heard" or "respecting their opinions" means they get their way; absolutely, without question. To any other opposing fans getting a kick out of this, rest assured, it will one day come to you. All freedom loving folks should be cheering on UND in this matter. Take it to court, Charles. And win. taz

The fact that this post contains "Alrighty then" and "supper" is why I love North Dakota. Well said, Mom. While certainly not being perfect, Nodakers are generally intelligent and hard working. Students usually do quite well as they venture out into the rest of the world. The challenging climate breeds self-sufficiency, responsibility. Sure, there's a lot of fed $$ coming in for farming, but I've never heard anyone regard a North Dakotan as being lazy. Surprisingly hip are Nodak teens, and generally level-headed enough to know how things work in the real world. You gain by earning, not scheming. Honesty and kindness are abundant. Many folks are well-traveled, and understand "big-city" ways all too clearly. They just don't care for it. Technology, as it helps minimize going outside, keeps Nodakers well-connected to the world. I'm very proud to have grown up in that wonderful state. Maybe move back someday... taz digs Nodak chicks, even married one of 'em. too bad for her.

I'm confused by this statement. The implication here seems to be a logo that's a cartoonish caricature of a people is acceptable or at the very least irrelevant because it isn't an accurate representation of that people. Does that mean that the Cleveland Indians' logo is OK because a red chipmunk with a mouth bigger than Julia Roberts, a slicked-back center part, and a feather sticking out of his head is obviously a fictitious goofball character? "The moment one of those little sun-burned rascals walks into the room..." If true, then UND's efforts to drop the Blackhawk logo and go with the more majestic Brien painting were in fact a step backwards? Quotes like these indicate the moving target that UND is up against. The NCAA should clear their heads and realize that they must get out of the make-everyone-happy sensitivity business and get back into insuring the integrity of competition among all student athletes. taz

I think the left has brought this criticism upon themselves as, more often than not, it is the left that seeks to inject race into all political discussions-- which this certainly has become. Is it fair to categorize name-changing as being a liberal-only cause? Perhaps not. But, the recent trend with the left and the Democratic Party lead by H. Dean is to scream racism as an underlying motivation for anything the Republican Party does. The most recent example being Kanye West's remarks-- silly and baseless as they are. You personally may not like it, but there it is. I respect your views on the subject, and glad to hear you support the name. But, you have to admit, it doesn't take a quantum leap in logic to tie modern day liberalism to this rather vacant, symbolic cause. taz

I lived in Princeton for 4 months. Campus is absolutely beautiful. I regret I didn't get to see a hockey game there; left much too early to take in a lot of things. Thanks for the kind words, JESUS,family,rutgers. We dig the Fighting Sioux very much. No racism here. Just midwestern hockey nuts who love Red Pepper grinders and mom's hot dish. Hopefully you can come to Grand Forks someday to see the Sioux live; you won't believe the arena! taz

Maybe Taz should unleash his own baritone pipes for tryouts? heh, heh. Thank you, Scott, for bringing such excitement and enthusiasm to each home game. You are a terrific talent, and a great guy. ...and to think that I just got done teaching my three year old "Heeeeerrrreeee's yoooouuuurrrrr University of North Dakotaaa... Fiigghhtinngg... Siouuuuxx....... SCOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOORRRRRRRRRRRRIIIIINNNNNNNGGGGGG!!!!!!!" taz digs it

Exactly. I thought the phrase "probably illegal" was slightly tongue-in-cheek, and therefore that much more powerful. It purports that UND is not so arrogant as to assume the law supports their argument; but also indicates a willingness to spend whatever time/resources necessary to find out. I actually laughed when I read this. I think the effort to devalue, or de-prioritize, the tribal support is noteworthy, but I'm not so sure it will be that effective to sway the NCAA. They apparently have hung their hats on this one. Still, if the Exec Committee is true to their word of looking at the entirety of the situation, then I think the case is still quite strong for an exemption. Hats off to Kupchella, whom I've given some personal criticism towards during the previous nickname debates when I thought he was wandering off the reservation- so to speak. I think this statement has the right balance of tone, certainty, confidence, and respect to all parties. It doesn't brow-beat nor does it give undue praise. It is a good midwestern-logic argument that should hit home with the average sports fan not driven by blind ambition for Cosmic Justice. The NCAA will quite likely strike the logo coverup requirement for the 06 Men's Hockey Regionals at REA. It is clear from the appeal that Kupchella knows this is a given. However, beyond that, it is much less predictable. I suspect Illinois, Utah, and the rest of the chosen ones are watching closely... taz

Coleman feels he must enlighten us all... http://www.startribune.com/stories/357/5563915.html taz

Taz giggling over that one.

I agree. I think the "Fighting Sioux" tradition would perhaps grow even stronger, more majestic-- much like the hockey facility itself. Still, my preference obviously is to officially be the UND Fighting Sioux. But, I think the worst case scenario should be no nickname at all. Very unique and definitely something that would become well-known around the country. How a little school on the prairie gave a little back to the NCAA. I would be extremely sad to see that beautiful logo by Bennet Brien be taken off our hockey jerseys. But, perhaps a Penn State-type simplistic deep green with subtle UND text might be cool. Then, in the stands, the massess bring all they got with the logo proudly and prominantly on display. I think there could be ways around the Arena-logo issue as well. Certainly, the arena was built before this silly ruling. Might be difficult for the NCAA to mandate the destruction of this monument, which would run in the millions of $$. An agreement must be made that states the REA stands as is, with historical significance. The school no longer officially uses the Fighting Sioux name, but everything else beyond the athletic department's control is free to do so. I think there has to be a clever, unique solution to this issue... if in fact one is actually required. Have not yet seen the fine print from the blowhards at the NCAA Executive Committee. If UND selects an alternate nickname, then they have completely caved. Aside from the obvious negative reaction from alumni and fans, it would be a huge failure to support PC run amok. Keep it green, UND. Keep it green. taz

As painful and embarrassing as it is to admit, I must agree with engelbunny. Do NOT pick a new name. If the name must be dropped to retain playoff advantage, then just be North Dakota. Period. Let the students, fans and alumni carry on the Fighting Sioux name unofficially. I'm sorry, but there is simply NO other team name that fits this program. Let the other schools throw away their traditions. Not this. Never. Not surprisingly, I am disgusted by the whole thing. It is embarrassing for our country that this is even an issue worthy of news print and TV time. I wonder how our best in uniform think about the fact that while they are sniffing out IED's and suicide bombers, there are muffinheaded ninnys in suits wringing their hands over what a college athletic team calls itself. For cryse sake, is this really what we've become as Americans? If I were a young Native American Taz Boy, and I saw what my leaders were spending their time on, protesting names of sports teams, travelling, doing on-camera interviews and such, I would be furious. I would want to know exactly how this endeavor benefits me personally as an Indian. I would ask, is this all that's important to them? A name on a team jersey? Or, is it a poser cause that gets Bellecourt airtime? Shameful. I strongly urge the Sioux faithful to stick to their guns on this. We know the vast majority of the alumni, students, faculty and general public support the name. We know that the vast majority of Native Americans in this country either support usage of the nicknames or don't care. We know that the NCAA is completely overstepping their power of oversight to appease a small group of whiney grandstanders. And, we know that North Dakota and the Fighting Sioux is something very special to all of us. The NCAA would have us painted as racist, insensitive, hostile, and degrading. Rather, we are proud. We honor the name. We honor those for which it stands. They were mighty warriors to the end. Fight On Sioux. taz

They are great action shots. Thank you! A little tough for this Sioux fan to review, however. These are the kind of photos that Denver fans can stare at for hours with gigantic grins, and Sioux fans can curiously wisk through to minimize the pain. It still stings to think about all those shots on goal and nothing goes in. Just like the year prior. I may be completely biased, but I thought NoDak had the overall better play. I know, I know, get over it. Why I'm still wringing my hands over this in June can only be explained by my thick green blood. I, too, cannot wait for the home series against Denver. I so want to see them embarrassed, just once, to get this bad taste out of my mouth. Until then, I will reflect fondly on the dominating performance by the Kelly Green against even more bitter rivals UM and BC. Wow. That was some damn good hockey, guys. taz digs da Sioux

I like the horn at the Kohl Center. Makes your back hair stand on end. Way cool. taz

Agreed. Great pics. And, yes, I'm a bit peeved as well. Nothing in particular, just a natural reaction to seeing a Sioux opponent celebrating. It's in the blood, dontcha know. Still, what a run. And perhaps it's just beginning...? As for DU, they can now suck for decades. taz thinks Hakstol has unfinished bidnez

Michigan fans must be so proud... taz creeped out by band geek's rant

Google it, baybay... http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&rls...gin&btnG=Search

I was in a serious of meetings during the semi-final game and had to settle for periodic text message updates from my wife, God bless her. Everytime that little phone shook was another quiet reminder that my Sioux had just popped another one in. Tonight, I have to settle for HiDef ESPN. I'm thinking the Sioux will bring it all against Denver. I'm so impressed by them. Win or lose, they have certainly been something special in the post season. What a team. Go Sioux!

Please, please, please! Someone push the boards in 7.5ft on both sides of the rink for the OT. I can't take it anymore. taz stabbing own eyes with knitting needle

OK. I went back to verify your change. Took me a few minutes but I finally got to the text. (I know, pathetic. Mrs. Taz just shakes her head)

Is the "pound-for-pound" comment meant against the Gooferette? Actually, Taz thinks she's quite trim and attractive (in a harmless, old-married-engineer sort of way).

I was hoping it was just a strange temper tantrum from being very frustrated at the loss. But, Lucia's comments make it sound much more serious. All of WCHA hockey should support this kid in whatever recovery efforts he may need. taz

Make's Taz Boy's heart heavy to see this happen. Let's hope and pray there is a full recovery in Robbie's near future. If I must say something nice about Gooferville , it is that Mr. Bina is no doubt in excellent care. taz hopes the biggest Sioux victory this year will occur off the ice

As it turns out, Lucia was right. The game meant nothing in terms of seeding in the big dance. Prior to the game, I also thought it was meaningless and would rather have not had it played. However, this is from a fan's narrow perspective. I think the guys on the ice see it as yet another chance to calibrate themselves against the best in college hockey. Although, UND has maybe more to prove to itself than the Gophs. I think yesterday's win was a good one for a team as beaten up as the Sioux are. This team is impressing the heII out of me. The tougher loss for da U was against CC. The lack of offense has to be eating away at them. Couple that with some shakiness in net and things get a bit spooky for the Gophs next weekend. You just don't want to be entering the tourney with any doubt, and there has got to be some of that in Goldy's mind today. If they come out and stomp on Maine, then I would say they are good-to-go for the Frozen Four. But, if not... taz digs da Sioux

I agree. This is a terrific bracket for fans of Sioux hockey. There's recent history between all three teams, and NoDak has got to be more than a little of a concern to BU and BC. I'm excited for the Sioux. I see MN getting a big challenge right off the bat. Maine is a very seasoned program, and has the capability of turning in a solid game any night. This is NOT an easy game for the Gophs. Again, east-west right in our backyard. Certainly nothing to complain about for either MN or UND fans. Should be a great tournament. taz