The end of 2012 is quickly approaching; as such, we have compiled a list of the top 12 Minnesota sports stories -- positive or negative -- from the year. We've counted them down for a couple of weeks now, and the top story will run Jan. 1.
Here is No. 2:
The Vikings stadium bill passing. Few things alternately bore and terrify sports fans as much as stadium debates (and the impending threat that their FAVORITE TEAM might leave). Vikings fans had been put through the wringer of years (decades?) of stadium chatter, with the specter of a move to Los Angeles looming in the distance if nothing was accomplished.
As these things go, teams usually eventually get their way -- but not before the process gets tense, ugly and a lot of other words. Regardless of how you now feel about the stadium deal, many of us can agree on a few things:
1. It was a huge story that dominated discussion for many months in 2012 and filled up online comment sections with spirited debate (a kind term) on both sides.
2. It's going to look kind of weird to see a building that is likely to be very beautiful occupying roughly the same spot as the Metrodome in a few years.
3. Because of all that went into it and came out of it, we should all at least be glad that we never have to hear another Vikings stadium debate again (or at least not for a generation ... but that doesn't mean there won't be other stadium debates for different teams ... and oh, let's just not think about it as we get ready to party on New Year's Eve).
MICHAEL RAND
