2015: The Grim Reaper
2014: 25 Years of the Timberwolves
2013: Terry Ryan, Twins
2012: Tubby Smith, Gophers
2011: Zygi Wilf, Vikings
2010: Brett Favre, Vikings
2009: Tim Brewster, Gophers
2008: Marian Gaborik, Wild
2007: Charlie Weis, Notre Dame
2006: Pam Borton, Gophers
2005: Bob Naegele, Wild
2004: Red McCombs, Vikings
2003: Glen Mason, Gophers
2002: Kevin McHale/ Flip Saunders, Wolves
2001: Randy Moss/ Cris Carter, Vikings
2000: Jesse Ventura, Minn. governor
1999: Clem Haskins, Gophers
1998: Carl Pohlad, Twins
1997: Dennis Green, Vikings
1996: Kerri Strug, Olympian
1995: Warren Moon, Vikings
1994: Jack McCloskey, Wolves
1993: Norm Green, N. Stars
1992: 25 Years of Gophers football
1991: Chris Doleman, Vikings
1990: Kent Hrbek, Twins
1989: Mike Lynn, Vikings
1988: Lou Nanne, North Stars
1987: Carl Pohlad, Twins
1986: Dr. Kenneth Keller, University of Minnesota president
1985: Lou Holtz, Gophers
1984: Les Steckel, Vikings
1983: Paul Giel, Gophers
1982: Billy Martin, A's/Yankees
1981: George Steinbrenner, Yankees
1980: Bobby Knight, Indiana Hoosiers
1979: Pete Rozelle (NFL)/Bowie Kuhn (MLB), commissioners
1978: Woody Hayes, Ohio St.
The Wild’s Brock Faber played in the 2022 Games in Beijing when he was still at the University of Minnesota and NHL players stayed at home. In 2026, he’s back.
