'M' hockey thrives on Dekers' support

By Uma Subramanian

Daily Sports Writer

Michigan hockey fans seem to be unlike any other fans in the country - this has already been established.

With their raucous cheers and undying loyalty, the Yost Ice Arena faithful put their hearts on the line week in and week out.

But there are a few patrons whose enthusiasm extends beyond the confines of the Wolverines' home rink. The members of the Dekers Blue Line Club live and breathe Michigan hockey.

They unite in support of the Wolverines often following the team to distant locales and bringing an element of the Michigan spirit with them.

"We're all just hockey lovers and we love Michigan hockey," said Dekers club president Dave Linebaugh, who has been a season ticket holder since Yost became an ice rink in 1974.

Linebaugh is not alone in his support. The Dekers boast members from all walks of life - including fans like Otto Myznir who came to the United States from Austria only ten years ago.

Since skiing, not hockey, is Austria's most prominent sport, Myznir wasn't a fan until he arrived in Ann Arbor. But now, by self-admission, Myznir is hooked on the sport.

Through the Dekers Club, Myznir and his family have formed a strong bond with the Michigan hockey program.

The club - founded in 1962 - was organized to support the Michigan hockey program through financial and event contributions.

"There's a lot of history behind the club," Michigan coach Red Berenson said. "They're a huge support group. They're hockey fans and a lot of them will go on the road with us.

"The team understands that these people are more than just fans - they're big supporters of the program. They're just tremendous."

The volunteer, non-profit organization raises funds through the 50/50 raffle held during home hockey games, banquets and fundraisers. All the money goes to benefit the Wolverines. For example, this past year the club endowed a hockey scholarship.

But perhaps more importantly, the Dekers enjoy a close relationship with Michigan coach Red Berenson and his team.

They also organize events such as a golf outing, the senior banquet and Dekers fun night at Yost.

This past weekend, ninety members turned out to have breakfast with the coach.

Berenson addressed the crowd, as did CCHA Commisioner Tom Anastos. Though attendees peppered Anastos with questions including debating questionable refereeing calls, when Berenson spoke he had everyone's attention.

In return, the coach awarded his fans the same respect, divulging his thoughts on a variety of topics from the team's upcoming playoff run to the recent resignation of Michigan athletic director Tom Goss.

"We see a lot of the Dekers at (my weekly) radio show," Berenson said. "I feel like I know most of them and they've done a great job. Everyone has a different reason for liking hockey whether it's the speed, the action, the contact and so on. But it's hard to enjoy a baseball game or a basketball game after you've been to a hockey game."

For the Dekers, Berenson's statement holds a lot of truth. These Michigan fans are hockey fans for life.

JESSICA JOHNSON/Daily

Michigan goalie Josh Blackburn is one of the many beneficiaries of the Dekers Blue Line Club's support.