Media Information 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five March 17-19 • Xcel Energy Center • Saint Paul, MN
Key Tournament Contacts Carol LaBelle-Ehrhardt, WCHA Assistant Commissioner & Tournament Director office: 303 871-4491. fax: 303 871-4770. email: [email protected] Doug Spencer, WCHA Associate Commissioner for Public Relations office: 608 829-0100 • fax: 608 829-0200 • email: [email protected] Bill Robertson, Minnesota Wild • Vice President, Communications & Broadcasting office: 651 602-6022 • fax: 651 293-9574 • email: [email protected] Deb Hanson, Minnesota Wild • Administrative Assistant, Communications & Broadcasting office: 651 602-5729 • fax: 651 293-9574 • email: [email protected] Kathy O’Connor, Director, Media and Public Relations, Xcel Energy Center office: 651 265-4819. email: [email protected]
Television Contact Maggie Kukar, Broadcast Manager, Minnesota Wild office: 651 602-5720 • e: [email protected] Media Information • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Western Collegiate Hockey Association
Bruce M. McLeod Commissioner Carol LaBelle-Ehrhardt Assistant Commissioner of Operations Greg Shepherd Supervisor of Officials Administrative Office Western Collegiate Hockey Association MSC 8302, University of Denver Contents 2211 S. Josephine Street Denver, CO 80208-8302 I. 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Dates and Game Times p: 303 871-4223. f: 303 871-4770. II. Determination of WCHA Playoff Champion email: [email protected] III. Awarding of Broadmoor Trophy and Final Five All-Tournament Team Doug Spencer IV. Media Entrance to Xcel Energy Center Associate Commissioner for V. Working Media Credentials Public Relations Public Relations Office VI. Credential Pick-Up Western Collegiate Hockey Association VII. Parking 559 D’Onofrio Drive, Ste. 103 VIII. Directions to Press Box from Media Entrance Madison, WI 53719-2096 p: 608 829-0100. f: 608 829-0200 IX. Directions to Press Dining Room, Workroom and Press Conference email: [email protected] Room from Media Entrance X. Press Dining • Billy Rob’s Cafe III Home of a Record 36 Men’s XI. Press Work Room National Championship XII. Locker Rooms Teams Since 1951 1952, 1953, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, XIII. Press Box Information 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, XIV. Game-Day Staff 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1973, 1974, XV. Tournament/Game Information/Statistics 1975, 1976, 1977, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1997, XVI. Photographers 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 XVII. Phone Lines/Telephone-Internet Service XIX. Data Ports Men’s Conference Members XX. Restrooms University of Alaska Anchorage Bemidji State University XXI. Television Coverage • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Colorado College XXII. Live Internet Audio Coverage • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five University of Denver XXIII. Radio Broadcasts & Rights Fees • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Michigan Tech University University of Minnesota XXIV. 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Team Practices • Xcel Energy Center University of Minnesota Duluth XXV. WCHA Overtime Procedures – 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Minnesota State University XXVI. Timeouts • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five University of Nebraska Omaha University of North Dakota XXVII. Intermissions St. Cloud State University XXVII. Instant Replay University of Wisconsin XXIX. Post-Game Press Conferences 2011 Red Baron™ XXX. Contact Info WCHA Final Five XXXI. Pre-2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Media Teleconference March 17-19 • Xcel Energy Center • XXXII. WCHA Post-Season Awards Saint Paul, MN XXXIII. Media Accommodations Tickets: online at ticketmaster.com, by phone at: 800 745-3000 XXXIV. Parking & Transportation XXXV. WCHA Fan Fest XXXVI: Live Music! wcha.com XXXVII: Dance Mania XXXVIII: Pick Your Final Five XXXIX: Tournament Fan Nights
Add 1: 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Working Media Credential Application Form Media Information • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five March 17-19 • Xcel Energy Center • Saint Paul, MN
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Media
Welcome to the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five. On behalf of the entire Western Collegiate Hockey Association and Commissioner Bruce M. McLeod, the Minnesota Wild, and Xcel Energy Center, we sincerely appreciate your attendance and support. Following are a few items to assist you in covering the tournament.
I. 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Dates and Game Times (Face-offs)
Thursday, March 17: Quarterfinal #1, 3:37 pm CT; Quarterfinal #2, 7:07 pm CT Friday, March 18: Semi-Final #1, 2:07 pm CT; Semi-Final #2, 7:07 pm CT Saturday, March 19: Broadmoor Trophy Championship Game, 7:07 pm CT
Special Note on Minnesota Wild NHL Game Saturday: Also on Saturday, March 19, the National Hockey League’s Minnesota Wild will play a regular season game against the Columbus Blue Jackets at 1:00 pm CT at Xcel Energy Center. Tickets are available at the Xcel Energy Center Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by calling 800-745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com
II. Determination of WCHA Playoff Champion
The championship team of the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five will be presented with the Broadmoor Trophy and will receive the Western Collegiate Hockey Association’s automatic entry into the NCAA Div. 1 Men’s Ice Hockey Championship tournament.
III. Awarding of Broadmoor Trophy and All-Tournament Team
The Broadmoor Trophy will be presented to the winning team of the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five on ice on Saturday, March 19 after the conclusion of the championship game. In addition, the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five All-Tournament Team and Tournament Most Valuable Player will be announced on-ice. The all-tournament team and most valuable player will be selected by a committee appointed by the WCHA.
IV. Media Entrance to Xcel Energy Center
The media entrance to the Xcel Energy Center is located at Gate 1 on the Southeast side of the arena on Kellogg Blvd. The media entrance will be open two-and-a-half hours prior to game time. A Media Entrance Attendant will be on hand to check your media pass as you enter the building. The Media Entrance will close 15 minutes after the start of each game.
V. Final Five Working Media Credentials Working Media Credential Requests • Friday, March 4th Deadline
Media credentials for the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five must be secured in advance – and by Friday, March 4th – via a completed 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Media Credential Request Form. The form is available at the end of this document, via the WCHA web site (wcha.com), from Doug Spencer in the WCHA Public Relations Office (608 829-0100), or from Deb Hanson in the Minnesota Wild Office (651 602-5729). Media who cover a particular team and whose attendance depends on that team participating, must still complete the credential application request form and submit it before the March 4 deadline. You must fax the completed credential request no later than Friday, March 4 to: Deb Hanson, Administrative Assistant, Minnesota Wild, at fax number: 651 293-9574. Doug Spencer, WCHA Associate Commissioner for Public Relations, and Deb Hanson of the Minnesota Wild will be working together on all 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five credential requests. Upon receipt and upon approval, credential requests will be confirmed via fax, e-mail or telephone by Deb Hanson. Media Information • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five
Preference for working media credentials will be given to requests from primary media from the six qualifying institutions, primary Twin Cities-area media, and those who cover the Association and its teams on a regular basis. Other requests will be granted only as press box space at the Xcel Energy Center permits. NEWSPAPER and MAGAZINE outlets will generally be granted one working MEDIA credential and press box space per outlet (exceptions may be granted upon review of requests). RADIO STATIONS who are granted prior permission by the WCHA to broadcast games live at the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five will be issued two working MEDIA credentials (maximum of three upon review of request). Radio broadcast locations at the Xcel Energy Center will be in the upper press box. Requests from radio stations not broadcasting live from the Xcel Energy Center but who wish to report only on the tournament may be granted one working credential per outlet – but only as press box space permits. TELEVISION STATIONS – Exclusive live television coverage of the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five is being produced and distributed by Fox Sports North, in conjuction with the Western Collegiate Hockey Association and the Minnesota Wild and absolutely no other live televison coverage, video streaming, or operation of television or video cameras inside the Xcel Energy Center during the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five will be permitted, with the exception of post-game press conferences in the Media Interview Room. TV stations wishing to do live shots prior to game times will be provided designated areas in the arena, provided those live shots are wrapped up one half-hour before the start of games. TV stations who wish to report only on the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five must fax their credential request on the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Media Credential Request Form no later than Friday, March 4th to: Deb Hanson, Administrative Assistant, Minnesota Wild, at fax number: 651 293-9574.
Note: Media Wishing to Cover the Minnesota Wild Game Media requesting to cover the Minnesota Wild game will need to complete the portion on the application. WCHA credentials will NOT provide you access to the arena for this game. Once approved to cover the Wild game, you will receive confirmation from the Minnesota Wild office separately from the WCHA confirmation.
VI. Credential Pick-Up
Media credentials will not be mailed. Media credentials will be available for pick up at the Media Entrance located inside Gate 1 (Southeast entrance) of the Xcel Energy Center two-and-a-half hours prior to game time. Proper identification (i.e. photo ID) is required. The official 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Media Credential is good for all five games. Those who wish to pick up credentials on Wednesday, March 16, must make prior arrangements with Deb Hanson.
VII. Parking
No parking passes are available for the tournament. The Xcel Energy Center is serviced, primarily, by two ramps, RiverCentre and Kellogg, directly connected to the complex. Alternate ramps are listed on electronic parking advisory signs located at entry points to downtown Saint Paul. There are more than 50 parking ramps and lots within a brief walk of the Xcel Energy Center. Visit “Getting Here” at www.xcelenergycenter.com for locations and directions.
** Television stations requiring TV uplink truck parking, should contact Deb Hanson of the Minnesota Wild via email at dhanson@ wild.com or by phone at (651) 602-5729.
VIII. Directions to Press Box from Media Entrance
Elevators: Elevators leading to the press box are located directly west of the media entrance, near the Southwest entrance to the arena. Take the elevator up to “P”, the press box level.
IX. Directions to Press Dining Room, Workroom and Press Conference Room from Media Entrance
Elevators: Elevators leading to the press areas on the event level are located directly west of the media entrance, near the Southwest entrance to the arena. Press ”E” to go down to the event level. Bear left out of the elevator and go right down the hallway. Turn left to head down the event level concourse to press areas. The press dining room/press workroom/press conference room will be on your left. The dark rooms are directly across from the press conference room on your right. Media Information • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five X. Press Dining • Billy Rob’s Cafe III
Press Dining: Meals will be provided to accredited working media and served in Billy Rob’s Cafe III during the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five. Billy Rob’s Cafe III will be open approximately 90 minutes prior to the beginning of a game and will close ten minutes into the first period. There will be two seatings of meal service each day. In addition, an assortment of beverages and snacks will be available in the press box throughout the event. Individuals must present a MEAL TICKET at the entrance to Billy Rob’s Cafe III. Meal Tickets will be distributed in the press box to accredited media by a member of the WCHA Game-Day Staff. The Final Five media meal schedule is as follows: Thursday, March 17: food will be available to accredited media between the first quarterfinal game and second quarterfinal game, beginning at approximately 5:30 pm CT. Friday, March 18: food will be available between the first semi-final game and second semi-final game, beginning at approximately 5:00 pm CT. Saturday, March 19: food will be served prior to the championship game in Billy Rob’s Cafe III, beginning at approximately 5:00 pm CT.
XI. Press Work Room
The press work room is comprised of two areas. The first area is equipped with work stations, each equipped with local phone access and data ports. The joining room to the west is the second work room/press dining area. Work stations and a copy machine are available in this area. There is a fax machine in the press box.
XII. Locker Rooms
Team locker rooms are located on the north side of the arena at event level. From the elevators and stairs, turn left down the event level concourse.
XIII. Press Box Information
Open and Close Times: The press box will open two-and-a-half hours prior to game time and close an hour-and-a-half after the end of the game.
Rules: The press box is a working press area. All policies and procedures associated with possessing a media credential will be invoked. No cheering is permitted.
Seating Arrangements: Press box seating will be assigned to accredited media who are granted an official working credential to cover the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five. Seating assignments for each game will be posted at the entrance to the press box and at several other prominent areas in the press box. Seating assignments may change on a game-by-game basis, so please check the seating assignment at each game. Welcome placards will also be placed on the table in front of your seat. Final Five Team Coaching Staffs: Two seats in the Xcel Energy Center press box will also be provided to the coaching staffs of the six teams competing at the Final Five teams during their respective games. Seat locations will be posted in the press box. Note for Minnesota Wild NHL Game on Saturday: Seating assignments will differ from the WCHA games to the Minnesota Wild game. Please be aware of this and take any personnel cords or equipment when you leave on Friday following the second game. Seating charts will be reposted prior to the Saturday evening Championship game for you to reset your equipment. If you require any special accommodations to store equipment, please contact Deb Hanson for arrangements.
XIV. Game-Day Staff
The WCHA game-day staff is located in seats 125-136 at the west end of the press box on the second level. The staff will place period and game results on the countertop along the wall in the center of the press box, adjacent to the copy room and will also distribute throughout the press box. Media Information • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five XV. Tournament/Game Information/Statistics
The WCHA will provide tournament programs (as quantity permits), press kits, and complete game statistics and final game summaries to accredited media in attendance at the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five. In addition, Public Relations Directors from the six Final Five competing teams will have press packets and line charts available for their respective teams, located on the countertop along the wall in the center of the press box, adjacent to the copy room.
XVI. Photographers
Photo coordinator and photographer for the tournament is Bruce Kluckhohn, working on behalf of the WCHA and Xcel Energy Center. Please see Bruce (cell 612 275-7056) with your shooting location preferences at least 90 minutes prior to the start of a game. Photo positions will be shared and every effort will be made to accommodate each request. Priority will be given to local daily newspapers, wire services, league and team photographers. In addition to the photo positions listed below, photographers may shoot from many locations throughout the arena as long as they do not interfere or obstruct a fan’s view of the ice.
Dark Room A “dark room” is available for photographers to digitally send photos to their organizations or prepare their film. The dark room is located directly across from the press conference room on the event level. A phone with local access is also provided in each room. Remember to dial 9 to access an outside line.
Designated Stil Photo Positions
1. Between player benches at ice level 2. Between sections 112/113 and 114/115 at ice level (holes in glass) 3. Between sections 118/119 and 120/121 at ice level (holes in glass) 4. Zamboni tunnel at ice level at section 123 (shooting through glass) 5. Top of section 102 on platform riser 6. Top of section 105 on platform riser 7. Top of section 117 (without obstructing view of accessible seating patrons) 8. Top of sections 103/104, on risers (TV cameras take first priority in this location, availability may vary)
XVII. Phone Lines/Internet Service
All phones located in the press box, if not previously arranged, have local access. Media phone lines will be handled by Coulette Columbus Powers, who will be the point person for all orders/billing. Media needing dedicated phone/radio lines in the Xcel Energy Center press box for the Final Five must contact Coulette Columbus Powers in advance at (651) 265-4875. A Telephone & Internet Service Order Form: is available at http://www.xcelenergycenter.com/presskit.jsp.
How do I Dial Out?: You must dial 9 to access an outside line Press Box Phone: (651) 726-8600 or (651) 726-8601 Press Box Fax: (651) 726-8700 Press Room Phone: (651) 726-8100 Press Room Fax: (651) 726-8101
XIX. Data Ports
Data ports are installed at each seat throughout the entire press box are all are activated with local access. You must enter a 9 before your dial-up number to make a proper connection.
Wireless Access: There is no charge for wireless access. You will find the wireless access code posted in the Al Shaver Press Box. Media Information • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five XX. Restrooms
Press Box: Restrooms in the press box are located 15 feet from the elevators.
XXI. Television Coverage Fox Sports North to Broadcast 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Live
The 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five will again be telecast live by FOX Sports North. The telecasts are a joint production of FOX Sports North, Xcel Energy Center and the Western Collegiate Hockey Association are produced by Minnesota Wild Broadcasting. The entities have televised the tournament since 2000. FS North’s Max Michalak will produce the five telecasts, and Minnesota Wild Broadcast Manager Maggie Kukar (651 602-5720) will be in charge of the overall television production elements. The television broadcast team for the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five is as follows: Anthony LaPanta will handle play-by-play duties for all five games with Casey Hankinson and Kevin Gorg splittime time as Analyst. Norm Jones will also join the WCHA broadcasts. FOX Sports North reaches more than 2 million homes throughout Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa and North and South Dakota and telecasts nearly 2,600 hours of locally produced programming per year. For more information on the Emmy Award-winning regional sports network, visit: www.foxsportsnorth.com The television schedule for the 2010 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five follows: Date Game Time CST Television Thursday, March 17 Quarterfinal #1 3:30 pm FS North Quarterfinal #2 7:00 pm FS North Friday, March 18 Semi-final #1 2:00 pm FS North Semi-final #2 7:00 pm FS North Saturday, March 19 Broadmoor Trophy Championship Game 7:00 pm FS North
TV Timeouts: There will be four, 1:00 official timeouts per periods one, two and three during all Final Five games. Timeouts are to be taken at the first stoppage of play after the 16:00, 12:00, 8:00 and 4:00 marks. Official Time-outs may NOT be taken during power-plays, and Official Time-outs are discouraged (but not prohibited) during even-strength shorthanded play. Official Time-outs also cannot be taken after icings, or after a puck is shot directly out of play in the defensive zone by a defensive player. There will be no timeouts during overtime for all 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five games.
XXII. Live Internet Audio Coverage at WCHA.com
The 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five will also again be audio broadcast live over the internet for the seventh consecutive season via the Western Collegiate Hockey Association’s official web site – wcha.com. All five games of the championship will again be broadcast live via wcha.com, with Jack Swanson and Jim Rich, voice of This Week in the WCHA (the league’s weekly radio show), again handling the play-by-play, and Kevin Falness of the Minnesota Wild handling the production. The league will also rotate special guests throughout the live internet broadcasts.
XXIII. Radio Broadcasts & Rights Fees
Each qualifying school’s regular radio station (play-by-play) will have the right of first refusal for each 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five game (maximum of two per school) involving the team they regularly cover during the season and all broadcast rights must be approved in advance by the WCHA. Host institutions will be consulted on all agreements. Application for working credentials should be faxed on the 2011 Red Baron® WCHA Final Five Media Credential Request Form no later than Friday, March 4th to: Deb Hanson, Administrative Assistant, Minnesota Wild, at fax number: 651 293-9574.
For all 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five games, the following radio broadcast rights fees apply and are to be paid in advance to the WCHA office: $100 per game. Upon approval of rights, checks covering appropriate fees should be made payable to: Western Collegiate Hockey Association and remitted IN ADVANCE to: Carol LaBelle-Ehrhardt, Assistant Commissioner, Western Collegiate Hockey Association, MSC 8302, University of Denver, 2211 S. Josephine, Denver, CO 80208-8302. Media Information • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five XXIV. Final Five Team Practices • Xcel Energy Center
Media wishing to attend team practices at Xcel Energy Center on Thursday morning, March 17th should contact Deb Hanson via telephone at: 651 602-5729 to place the name/names on a practice pass list. There will be no practice times on Wednesday. Practice schedules for the Final Five will be issued by the conference office on March 15. Practice times for Seeds 3 through 6 and officials will be available on Thursday, March 17, for all four participating team on Friday, March 18, and the two teams in the championship game on Saturday, March 19. All other Media credentials will be available for pick-up at the media entrance in the main lobby at Xcel Energy Center beginning two-and-a-half hours prior to game time.
XXV. Final Five Overtime Procedures
Where advancement in a bracket or the determination of a tournament champion is necessary, any game that results in a tie will be broken by 20-minute sudden-death overtime periods. The ice shall be resurfaced upon completion of regulation play, as well as after each succeeding 20-minute overtime period Intermissions between overtimes will be the same as between the first, second and third periods. The teams will change ends at the start of each 20-minute overtime period for the entire time that it takes to determine a winner.
XXVI. Timeouts
Official Timeouts:There will be four, 1:00 official timeouts per periods one, two and three. Timeouts are to be taken at the first stoppage of play after the 16:00, 12:00, 8:00 and 4:00 marks. There will be no timeouts taken during power-plays. No timeouts may be taken after an icing. No timeouts may not be taken if the puck is shot directly out of the defensive zone by a defensive player. Timeouts are discouraged (but not prohibited) during even-strength shorthanded play. There will be no timeouts during overtime for all 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five games.
XXVII. Intermissions
Intermissions for Games #1 and #2 (Thursday, March 17) and Games #3 and #4 (Friday, March 18) of the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five will be 16:00 in length. Intermissions for the Broadmoor Trophy championship game on Saturday evening, March 19, will be 17:00 in length.
XXVII. Instant Replay
The Western Collegiate Hockey Association will use instant replay to review all goals for all five 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five games contested at Xcel Energy Center.
XXIX. Post-Game Press Conferences
The WCHA will conduct a post-game press conference following each 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five game in the Press Interview Room, located at the Southwest Corner of the Xcel Energy Center, at the base of the Press Elevator (between sections 108-109) and immediately adjacent to the Media Dining Lounge. We will have head coaches and requested players in attendance at each press conference and we will conduct post-game press conferences after a ‘cooling off’ period for the teams and as soon as possible after the conclusion of each game. For all games at the Final Five, we will take the losing team first and the winning team second. If you have any special requests for certain players, please contact the appropriate participating team’s sports information director or a member of the WCHA Game-Day Staff for assistance. Media Information • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five XXX. Key Contact Info
Contact Info: Should media-related questions come up during the tournament, please contact Doug Spencer, Associate Commissioner for Public Relations, WCHA (cell 303 475-9283), Deb Hanson, Administrative Assistant, Minnesota Wild (cell 651 399- 1350), Bill Robertson, Vice President - Communications & Broadcasting, Minnesota Wild (651 602-6022); Kathy O’Connor, Public Relations Manager, Xcel Energy Center (cell 651 755-5201), or Maggie Kukar, Broadcast Manager, Minnesota Wild (cell 651 755- 5193).
XXXI. Pre-2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Media Teleconference Tuesday, March 15 • 11:00 AM CT
The Western Collegiate Hockey Association will conduct a teleconference for the media with the Commissioner and the six head coaches whose teams qualify for the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five on Tuesday, March 15 at 11:00 am CT. Final Five qualifying head coaches and staff should phone in to the teleconference by 10:59 am CT at: 1 888 245-7014, followed by passcode 729388#. Media should phone in to the teleconference by 10:59 am CT at: 1 973 935-2025, followed by passcode 729388#.
XXXII. WCHA Post-Season Awards
Do to the new format for the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five, with two games now on Thursday, March 17, there will be no league awards banquet this season. The WCHA will have press releases announcing the award winners in the Xcel Energy Center Press Box throughout the event.
XXXIII. Media Accommodations
If possible, media members who are planning to attend the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five in Saint Paul are encouraged to utilize their respective local teams for securing hotel accommodations for the tournament. If not applicable, there are numerous hotels in the area that are offering special Final Five rates. They are available in the official WCHA FINAL FIVE FAN GUIDE, available at WCHA.com, and are also listed below: Check out the area hotels link at wcha.com at: http://wcha.com/men/tourney/index.php
Hotel Information
Hotels in Saint Paul Take advantage of these great special offers on lodging presented to Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five hockey fans! Redeem your fan friendly special offer by calling participating locations directly and asking for the Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five special. Offers are based on availability, subject to change and valid March 17-19, 2011. Not valid with any other offers. Tax not included.
Best Western Kelly Inn Saint Paul • 161 St. Anthony Avenue (651) 227-8711 or (800) WESTERN • www.bestwesternstpaul.com Final Five Rate: $159
Embassy Suites Saint Paul Downtown • 175 East 10th Street (651) 224-5400 or (800) EMBASSY • www.embassystpaul.com Final Five Rate: Starting at $189
Holiday Inn Saint Paul Downtown • 175 West Seventh Street (651) 225-1515 • www.holidayinn.com/stpaulmn Final Five Rate: Starting at $164/King, $174/Doubles
Holiday Inn Saint Paul East • 2201 Burns Avenue (651) 731-2220 or (800) HOLIDAY • www.holidayinn.com/msp-i94east Final Five Rate: $109
Hotel 340 • 340 Cedar Street, Saint Paul, MN 55102 (651) 224-5845 • www.hotel340.com Final Five Rate: $159 Media Information • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Team Host Hotels
The Saint Paul Hotel 350 Market Street (800) 292-9292 • www.stpaulhotel.com
Crowne Plaza Hotel St. Paul – Riverfront 11 East Kellogg Boulevard (800) 2CROWNE • www.cpstpaul.com
Hilton Garden Inn City Center Hotel 411 Minnesota Street (800) 333-3333 • www.stpaulcitycenter.stayhgi.com
* for additional hotel rates, go to www.visitsaintpaul.com.
XXXIV. Parking & Transportation
Parking Xcel Energy Center is serviced primarily by two ramps, RiverCentre and Kellogg, directly connected to the complex. There are more than 50 parking ramps and lots within a brief walk of Xcel Energy Center. Visit “Getting Here” at www.xcelenergycenter.com for locations and directions.
Some Hockey Fans Rent Limos … Cadillac Chauffeur Service (651) 690-3212 Cities Limousine & Transportation (612) 710-2030 Corporate Car & Coach (651) 696-9029 Eclipse Transportation (800) 215-8914 Lee’s Limousine (651) 462-5466 Premier Transportation (612) 331-7433
All Hockey Fans Ride Safe! Airport Taxi (763) 592-6410 Super Shuttle (800) 258-3826
Taxi Service A taxi stand is located on Fifth Street at Gate Four of Xcel Energy Center following the games or at Crowne Plaza Riverfront Hotel and The Saint Paul Hotel.
Bus Service Saint Paul has a convenient Metro Transit system. Buses run throughout the city, to Mall of America and Minneapolis. For more information about Metro Transit bus service, please call their 24-hour information line at (612) 373-3333 or www.metrotransit.org. Media Information • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five XXXV. Microsoft WCHA Fan Fest • Saturday, March 19 4:30 pm-6:30 pm at Iron Range Grill (Xcel Energy Center/Gate 4)
Come celebrate the Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five with live music, interactive games, food & beverages and more! Cheerleaders, mascots and WCHA pep bands will rock the house with the school songs that lead their teams to victory! The Microsoft WCHA Fan Fest is free and open to the public!
XXXVI: Live Music!
Enjoy the sounds of local live music before the games on Friday and Saturday nights as these bands rock inside Gate 4 at the Iron Range Grill.
Friday, March 18, 4:30 p.m. Uncle Chunk (www.unclechunk.com)
Saturday, March 19, 4:30 p.m. Playback (www.playbackrocks.com)
XXXVII: Dance Mania • Presented by Visit Saint Paul
Bring your dance moves and shake what your momma gave you at the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Dance Mania Contest! Throughout the tournament get up and dance when you hear the designated song! The person who shakes it the best throughout the entire tournament walks away with $250 and tickets to the 2012 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five. Costumes encouraged!
XXXVIII: Pick Your Final Five
Get in on the action at this year’s 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five with the “Pick Your Final Five Sweepstakes!” Pick the teams you think will be part of the 2011 WCHA Final Five and you may go to the 2012 WCHA Final Five with three friends for FREE! For additional details, visit www.xcelenergycenter.com/wcha.
XXXIX. Enjoy Tournament Fan Nights!
Stop by these WCHA fan-friendly establishments on the dates listed below and receive special offers.
Thursday, March 17 Great Waters Brewing Company • 426 St. Peter Street • (651) 224-BREW • www.greatwatersbc.com St. Paddy’s Day happy hour drink specials 4-6 p.m. and 10 p.m.-12 a.m. Thursday & Friday
Friday, March 18 • Joseph’s Bar and Grill • 140 South Wabasha Street, (651) 222-2435 • www.josephsgrill.com Joseph’s offers WCHA fans drink, appetizer, lunch and dinner specials. Valid only March 18, 2011.
Saturday, March 19 • Dixie’s on Grand • 695 Grand Avenue, (651) 222-7345 • www.dixiesongrand.com Offering happy hour, live music and free shuttle service (30 min. before game time) to Xcel Energy Center Media Information • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Tentative Schedule of Events 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five
Monday, March 14 • WCHA Conference Call with Final Five Teams 10:00 am CT • WCHA Assistant Commissioner and Tournament Director Carol LaBelle-Ehrhardt arrives in Saint Paul
Tuesday, March 15 • Media Teleconference with Commissioner Bruce McLeod & Final Five Head Coaches 11:00 am CT
Wednesday, March 16 • Additional WCHA staff arrives in Saint Paul • Participating teams begin arriving in Saint Paul
Thursday, March 17 • Team Practices, Etc. – Xcel Energy Center Officials 8:00 am–9:00 am CT Team TBA 9:15 am–10:00 am CT Team TBA 10:15 am–11:00 am CT Team TBA 11:15 am–12:00 pm CT Team TBA 12:15 pm–1:00 pm CT • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five • Quarterfinal No. 1: 3:37 pm CT • Post-Game Press Conference • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five • Quarterfinal No. 2: 7:07 pm CT • Post-Game Press Conference
Friday, March 18 • Team Practices – Xcel Energy Center Team TBA ” 8:30 am–9:00 am CT Team TBA 9:15 am–9:45 am CT Team TBA 10:00 am–10:30 am CT Team TBA 10:45 am–11:15 am CT • WCHA Final Five Semi-Final Game No. 1: Teams TBA 2:07 pm CT • Post-Game Press Conference • WCHA Final Five Semi-Final Game No. 2: Teams TBA 7:07 pm CT • Post-Game Press Conference
Saturday, March 19 • Team Practices – Xcel Energy Center NHL - Columbus 8:00-9:00 am CT Team TBA 9:15-9:45 am CT Team TBA 10:00-10:30 am CT • NHL Game: Minnesota Wild vs Columbus Blue Jackets 1:00 pm CT • WCHA Fan Fest 4:30 pm-6:30 pm The WCHA will host a “Fan Fest” at Iron Range Grill (Xcel Energy Center/Gate 4). Open to the public. • WCHA Final Five Broadmoor Trophy Championship Game 7:07 pm CT • On-Ice Awards Presentations: Broadmoor Trophy and All-Tournament Team Conclusion of Game • Post-Game Press Conference Media Information • 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Media Credential Request Form 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five Media members wishing to cover the WCHA Final Five must complete this form & return it by fax by Friday, March 4th to: Deb Hanson, Communications Office, Minnesota Wild. Fax this application to: (651) 293-9574
Name of media outlet: ______
Check type of media outlet: Print: ______Radio: ______TV: ______
Name(s) of person(s) to be issued credentials: ______
______
Phone: ______Fax: ______e-mail: ______
What WCHA team do you regularly cover? ______
I will attend and cover (please check one): All five games ______Only if my local team participates ______
I request a credential to cover the Minnesota Wild NHL game on Saturday, March 19. Circle one: YES NO
Will you be accompanied by a photographer? Yes ______No ______
Name of photographer: ______
Do you require a phone line? Yes ______No ______
(phone line contact: Coulette Columbus Powers (651) 265-4875.
If you have any questions prior to the tournament, please contact: Doug Spencer, WCHA Associate Commissioner for Public Relations, at: 608 829- 0100 or Deb Hanson, Communications & Broadcasting, Minnesota Wild, at: 651 602-5729.
Working media credentials for the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five – March 17, 18 and 19 at Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul, Minn. – will be issued in the following priority: certified media from the six competing teams, campus media certified by the SID of each participating institution, media who cover the conference and its teams on a regular basis, media from the immediate locale of the tournament, and other accredited media as space permits. Final Five Credential requests will be confirmed by Deb Hanson via email, fax or telephone. PRINT: Print media granted credentials will be assigned one working space per outlet in the Xcel Energy Center press box. Seat locations will be assigned by the WCHA and Deb Hanson, Minnesota Wild. PHOTO: Photographers granted working credentials will not have assigned seats in the press box. RADIO: Each school’s regular radio station (play-by-play) will have the right of first refusal for 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five games. Radio stations wishing to broadcast game(s) live from the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five and who pay the required rights fees of $100.00 per game in advance to the WCHA will be granted two working credentials (maximum of three upon request) in the press box. Specific radio broadcast locations will be assigned by the WCHA and Deb Hanson of the Minnesota Wild on March 16th. Checks for broadcast rights fees ($100.00 per game) should be made payable to ‘Western Collegiate Hockey Association’ and forwarded in advance to: Carol LaBelle-Ehrhardt, Assistant Commissioner of Operations, WCHA, MSC 8302, 2211 S. Josephine, Denver, CO 80208-8302. Radio stations not broadcasting the Final Five and granted credentials will be assigned one working space per outlet as space permits in the Xcel Energy Center press box. TELEVISION: All 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five games will be telecast by Fox Sports North. Exclusive television broadcast rights to the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five are owned by the WCHA and the Minnesota Wild and no other live television or video coverage of the event will be permitted. TV stations wishing to acquire feeds from the 2011 Red Baron™ WCHA Final Five must contact: Maggie Kukar, Broadcast Manager, Minnesota Wild at: 651 602-5720 ([email protected]). TV stations wishing to report only on the tournament and who are granted credentials will be issued one working space per outlet in the press box but no other live coverage of the event will be permitted. MEDIA PHONE LINES: Media needing dedicated phone/radio lines in the Xcel Energy Center press box must contact Coulette Columbus Powers at (651) 265-4875 in advance. All phone lines will be set up for local and/or calling card service. Telephone & Internet Service Order Form: is available on line on line at: http://www.xcelenergycenter.com/presskit.jsp.