With Iowa's AHL franchise now serving the Anaheim Ducks instead of the Dallas Stars, a new name change and uniform design was in order.Instead of opting to go the easy route and become the Iowa Ducks or Iowa Mallards, the team went in a completely different direction and chose a baffling new name: The Iowa Chops.
"We really feel this name perfectly represents our vision of the new team," says team owner Kirby Schlegel. "It illustrates Iowa's agricultural heritage while also playing into the definition of 'chops', having nerve, resilience and staying power. The word 'chops' can mean continually defeating someone, and that is the reputation we expect Iowa's new team to gain in the league."
"We wanted a name that would catch people's attention and spark discussion, not just in Iowa but nationally as well," says Steve Nitzel, Iowa Chops President. "There is no doubt the name is unique. We're confident that the team will continue to gain respect in this community and in the league for years to come."
Well, the new name certainly captures your attention, much like the play-on-words Macon Whoopee once did.
That said, does anyone not think of delicious pork chops when they hear this name? Looking at the logo, I suddenly get the urge to fire up the BBQ. I can't help but think the Anaheim Ducks ought to change their name to the Peking Ducks. Then, the whole organization can be one delicious supper.
At the very least, the name and logo change has the fans talking, and given Iowan hockey a bit more of the mid-west sports spotlight.
ADVERTISEMENT
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
7-10-2008 @ 12:52PM
Aurian said...
I agree with you. I certainly don`t think of nerve or resilience when I hear "chops." Especially with that pig-head logo. Mmm... pork chops...
On second note, that name is perfect for the evil puns newspapers often like to use for the sports pages. "Iowa Chopped Up!", "Chops Chops Moose!", "Fish and Chops!", etc....
Reply
7-11-2008 @ 11:18PM
Leper Messiah said...
I just happen to live in Des Moines, IA, and everyone here thinks this is a stupid name, if not downright insulting. Obviously, Iowa has NOTHING else good or recognizable about it but pigs & corn. Would you name a team the Las Vegas Compulsive Gamblers? The Miami Drug Dealers? The New York Mafia? It's like the naming meeting was only 2 minutes long. Put a little effort into it!
Reply
7-15-2008 @ 9:05PM
Broodwich said...
I am a central Iowan who grew up a hockey fan outside of Denver. I think it's a whimsical name. Iowans need to get a healthy grip on their inferiority complex and know how to have some fun. Des Moines is a great place, and an AHL nickname is not going to change that or sway the opinions of those outsiders who prefer form over substance.
Reply