On Sunday, the Stanley Cup made its way to Virginia, Minnesota.
Defenseman Matt Niskanen took the Cup to his childhood rink and spent a quiet day with his family and community.
Niskanen started his day showing off the Cup to his wife and son.
Welcome to Virginia, Minnesota and Matt Niskanen’s day with the @StanleyCup!! #ALLCAPS pic.twitter.com/o5JLgxfmlh
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) July 22, 2018
He was gifted with a key to the city.
🔑 to the city for the Niscannon! #ALLCAPS pic.twitter.com/h9o5LwGFj6
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) July 22, 2018
The plaque read:
Mr. Matt Niskanen
In recognition for your accomplishments in sports
For your commitment and generosity
to your Community and Alma Mater
The City, Citizens, and Youth of Virginia Thank You
Niskanen then took the Cup to his childhood rink, the Miners Memorial Building. Though there wasn’t any ice down, he was still able to walk the Cup out to the middle of the rink.
First stop in Virginia, MN: Miners Memorial Building where Nisky played High School Hockey! #ALLCAPS #StanleyCup pic.twitter.com/RymgsPZx1B
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) July 22, 2018
He also held a photo opportunity for the public where it seemed the entire population of Virginia showed up to get a photo.
If you’re not already in line to come see Matt Niskanen and the @StanleyCup in Virginia, it might be too late. The line is currently wrapped around the parking lot, and still growing. pic.twitter.com/Q5A8l5nIRv
— Matt Halverson (@MHalverson6) July 22, 2018
Eventually, Niskanen made it back to his house where he filled the Cup with fruit snacks.
The defenseman held a private party where friends drank out of the Stanley Cup.
The @StanleyCup is exactly where it should be today. #stateofhockey #ironrange @Capitals @russianmachine pic.twitter.com/sxNdlqpmA8
— Jess Jensen (@JessJensen1) July 23, 2018
Nisky concluded his day by taking a photo during sunset on Lake Vermilion.
