Donald Bruce Beard:To lift UND hockey's curse, adopt new nickname

This is the latest laugher from the Grand Forks Herald's opinion page. It's a dandy. So, were to believe that the UND hockey team hasn't won a national title because the team is cursed. And this curse is because UND doesn't have a nickname. Wow! Yeah, okay.

Since North Dakota's shocking loss in the men's hockey Frozen Four, various explanations have surfaced. Suspect coaching. Injuries. Lack of preparation.

Has anyone considered jinxes? Hexes? Curses?

In the summer of 1876, Medicine Chief Sitting Bull was most unhappy with the behavior of his white enemies.

Therefore, while the Sioux and their allies peacefully hunted the environs of Little Big Horn, he danced, chanted, implored and stared into the blinding sun. Eventually the Great Spirit rewarded him with a vision: Blue-coated soldiers with no ears tumbling from the skies.

Thus were Custer and his cavalry from North Dakota cursed and administered a defeat supporters never dreamed of.

Jump forward to the 2000s. The Ralph has arisen and, to the great displeasure of the Standing Rock Tribe, it continues to be called "Home of the Fighting Sioux" by supporters of that name.

Moreover, out front of this wondrous fortress stands guard the indomitable Sitting Bull.

It may be a coincidence, but since the placement of the Medicine Chief in his present location, UND has experienced a series of inexplicable defeats.

Hmmmm ...

Donald Bruce Beard

Banning, Calif.