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.
An opening ceremony stretching across northern Italy officially kicked off 2026 Winter Olympics on Friday.
