New looks for Minnesota's pro soccer teams

By TIM HARLOW, Star Tribune

Last update: March 26, 2008 - 6:38 PM

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Minnesota's two professional soccer teams will have new looks when they take to the field this season.

Owners of the men's Minnesota Thunder and the women's Lightning unveiled new uniforms and logos during a news conference and party for season ticket holders and corporate sponsors this afternoon at the Happy Gnome in St. Paul.

The Thunder's light-blue and gray emblem features the words "Minnesota Thunder," a "T" and the year 1990, the year the team started play in the first division of the United Soccer League. In 19 seasons, the team has won 335 games, lost 174 games and tied 64.

The Lightning's logo features a lightning bolt that drops down from the words "Minnesota Lightning," which are in blue and gold letters. The year 2006 is featured on the logo. In its two years in the USL's W-League, the team has a record of 19-4-3 and had made the playoffs each season.

At today's party, attendees will get to meet the new owner of the teams, St. Paul native Dean Johnson. He bought the teams at the end of 2007 season.

The Thunder's first regular season home game is set for May 4 at James Griffin Stadium in St. Paul against the Rochester Rhinos.

The Lightning's first regular season home game is May 30 at the University of Minnesota's Elizabeth Robbie Stadium against the Michigan Hawks.

Johnson said he promises more promotions and amenities at this season's home games.

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