Because of the non-conference schedule that has the football Gophers playing better teams than during any time in recent memory, there’s opinion that even though Minnesota’s talent and experience will be better than last season the record won’t. The Gophers were 7-6 last season.
Mitch Browning, the former Gophers offensive coordinator, is now a graduate assistant coach at Tennessee but is still being paid by Syracuse where he coached last year.
Former University of St. Thomas women’s hockey coach Kevin Gorg will again be a Canterbury Park and Star Tribune racing handicapper this year.
Tennis Festival of the North is being planned by the United States Tennis Association Northern Section for April 9-11, 2010. The event will involve nine partners and showcase tennis in multiple locations including the Mall of America. USTA Northern is planning the event to benefit people with various tennis interests and abilities. Plans include bringing high profile tennis stars to town.
Mike Max, busy with weekly assignments on two TV stations and WCCO Radio, works seven days per week, often 12 hour days.
The Wild made the Stanley Cup playoffs in 2003, 2007 and 2008, the most years of any recent NHL expansion team.
Former Timberwolves head coach Randy Wittman has a good relationship with Flip Saunders and it wouldn’t be surprising if Wittman joined Saunders as an assistant in Washington next season.
Lynx player Renee Montgomery has been named a national spokesperson and “GUARDian of Dreams” for the Pajama Program. She will work on national initiatives to help children in unsettled and vulnerable circumstances feel comforted and safe at bedtime. The Pajama Program provides new pajamas and books to children in need, many waiting and hoping to be adopted.