When you think of an incredible professional hockey team, Kansas does not come to mind. Mostly because there isn't even an NHL team in Kansas! But the University of Kansas brings many hockey fans from all over the country, making Lawrence a breeding ground for a lot of friendly rivalries:
Chicago Blackhawks fans
After three Stanley Cup wins in five years, everyone is out to get them. The fans think their team is the best and will always have a reason to brag about their beautiful city! It is no secret that everyone wants to take the Hawks down, because a good portion of KU is Chicago kids who aren't afraid to show their pride. During playoffs, you will see Blackhawk jerseys all over campus, and you'll always find another student cheering back at you "Go Hawks!"
Minnesota Wild fans
They may be some of the nicest people you will ever meet, but at the same time they'll remind you that they're the hockey state! They know more hockey terms than most people and "Miracle" is their favorite movie. Don't question their passion for the sport because they have more passion in one finger than most have in their whole body.
Blues fans
Blackhawk fans see them as huge rivals and Wild fans see them as the same. There is such a large group of St. Louis fans, but they stay a little quieter than the rest of us. Don't get me wrong, though, they will cheer for their team louder than most of us sometimes.
Every other NHL team fans
It's rare they will find someone who supports their team like they do, but that does not stop them from showing their support to their favorite team.
Kansas Natives
Considering there is no NHL team in the Kansas area, usually the students who are from Kansas cheer for a team that their friends are fans of. From everyone else's eyes, you weren't lucky enough to be blessed with a hockey team, but we love that you have converted to cheer for our teams.
Overall, Lawrence is one of the best places to be during the NHL playoff season. There are friendly rivalries through every bar on Mass Street and all the way to the Bull. Students will be wearing their favorite jerseys from the first puck drop of the playoffs, all the way to the final series. In your head, as you walk through campus as a hockey fan, you jokingly "judge" someone wearing your rival's t-shirt. One of the best experiences is cheering for your team at a bar while there are many different fans cheering against you. The rivalry is unlike any other in Lawrence, with the diverse group of people.
Grab a beer and grab your fellow friends, because it's the Cup!
