MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – The fighting Sioux from the University of North Dakota are in town for the West Regional NCAA Men’s Hockey Tournament, but they’ve left the Sioux nickname and logo at home.
The team will wear new throwback jerseys that comply with NCAA rules.
“If you look back in the history of the nickname, I take pride in what it means to the people of North Dakota,” said Scott Davidson, wearing a fighting Sioux jersey.
NewsRadio 830 WCCO’s Edgar Linares Reports
A decision about the nickname is expected from the North Dakota Supreme Court. Last week, the court heard arguments about the constitutionality of a law, which was adopted last April. It was repealed in November then reinstated last month.
NCAA officials told UND they could not host any NCAA post-season tournaments if they kept the nickname and logo.
“Last thing I want to see is our student athletes hurt. If the nickname is bad for their ability to play schools like the University of Minnesoa, that’s whole other issue than whether you think the nickname is wrong or not,” said Davidson.
The throwback jerseys the team will wear are white with “North Dakota” written on the front.
“They’re nice. I can live with it for this tournament,” said Nels Haug, a North Dakota fan. “I just hope to see the regular Fighting Sioux jersey back soon.”
North Dakota is the top seed in the four-team Western Regional. They will play Western Michigan at 12:30 on Saturday. North Dakota won the WCHA Final Five championship on last weekend with a 4-0 victory over Denver in St. Paul.
The Gophers are also in this region, and will open tournament play tomorrow against Boston University.
