St. Paul elementary school keeps tradition in Stanley Cup Playoffs

On Wednesday, the Minnesota Wild braced for the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Not only is this an exciting time in hockey, but it’s also a time for fans and volunteers to celebrate a sense of community.

When arriving to the game, fans see the towels laid upon stadium seats at the Wild playoffs and are reminded of one particular St. Paul elementary school.

After five years volunteering, Horace Mann PTO president Robin Larson said she still enjoys the annual tradition.

“We get to lay the towels again,” she said. “I enjoy it.”

For the last decade or so, the Highland Park area school has been the team’s partner in the “Wild Buddies” mentorship program, with the front office staff volunteering at the school every month.

Sometimes they get to meet team members, and last year, they got a visit from the Lord Stanley’s Cup.

Fifteen people – some returning, some first-timers – spent four hours preparing the stadium.

In exchange for the work, Horace Mann Elementary School gets donations, which fund various projects throughout the school such as improving the band program, replacing playground equipment and more.

“It’s a phenomenal deal for us, and I know the Wild appreciate the partnership, as well,” Larson said.