Vintage Minnesota Hockey - History

Beginning in 1979, the inaugural roasts were sponsored by the Minnesota Minute Men - who sponsors the Mr. and Ms. Hockey Award today.  The annual roast tradition, hosted by the Old Timers Association began in 1987*.  Annually, this non-profit group consisting of older Minnesota coaches, players, writers, fans, management, and U.S./NHL Hockey Hall of Fame inductees roast & toast a legendary Minnesota hockey alumni, into the now legendary Old Timers Hockey Association.  Over the years, the association has held the infamous 'roasts' at various Moose Lodges, Lions Hall and Maplewood Prom and Envision Center to honour a Minnesota hockey faithful.  Whatever the location, the roasts have drawn quite the crowd, and is now legendary to be inducted into this small Minnesota Hockey 'fraternity' of faithful roaster(s) that are inducted. Dick "The Polish Eagle" Jonckowski has been long-time emcee of the programs induction ceremony events.  The hockey old timers have a purpose beyond getting together to listen to Jonckowski.  Over the past 30 years, they've raised 100's of thousands for their special charity, the John Mariucci Lodge at Camp Confidence for disabled children at Lake Sylvan in northern Minnesota.  The lodge and camp were longtime causes for Mariucci, who died in 1987.  The association has three major events each year: the fall Thanksgiving luncheon traditionally held at Mancini's Char House, golf tournament, and the spring roast - at which a former coach or player is inducted into the the Old Timers Hall of Fame.  MHCA 1999 inductee Gordy Genz has served as long-time President of the annual events.