Blue Line Club Holds Fundraiser for Huskies Boys Hockey

Dudley Otto, the Indians' original hockey coach, spoke of the importance of the Blue Line Club boosters during Saturday's fundraising dinner and auction at the KC Hall.

Otto, an OHS Athletic Hall of Fame member, directly addressed the team to encourage them to enjoy every moment of the opportunity to play high school hockey. The former national champion goaltender with North Dakota closed by telling the goalies to keep the puck out of the net. Otto presented a check from Elks Club fundraisers to the Blue Line Club, which was the first booster group at Owatonna High School. Otto coached at OHS from 1968-87.

Current coach Josh Storm, in his sixth year, echoed the praise for the club saying that when the team needs something, the group gets it done. The Blue Line Club has recently assisted with the dry land training center in the basement of Four Seasons Centre, updated locker rooms and new jerseys, which the team put on display in Friday's home win over St. Francis. Storm also spoke of his memories of playing high school hockey. Most of those were related to time together with teammates, rather than game results.

Ken Wilcox was recognized on Saturday night as well. The former bank president was instrumental in bringing hockey to Owatonna to set the wheels in motion for establishing a high school program in 1968 and the building of the Four Seasons Centre several years later. Wilcox worked on radio for years with KRFO's Todd Hale as color commentator.

Four Seasons rink announcer Tony Schwichtenberg led a spirited live auction portion of the evening. Items included autographed hockey sticks, a replica athletic locker of the new lockers in the arena and a Wenger-created Owatonna Husky fire ring. A wine tasting experience and a personal feast served by BBQ award winner Dustin Reese were hotly contested auction prizes. Many silent auction items donated by local businesses filled the hall. A Windsor Chop dinner was prepared for those in attendance.

The Huskies return to the ice at Albert Lea on Thursday night at 7:15PM on Kat Kountry 105FM.