Tuesday, May 11, 2004 - Minnesota Thunder News Release - www.mnthunder.com

St. Paul, MN -- St. Paul Mayor Randy Kelly will officially welcome the Minnesota Thunder to St. Paul on Friday, May 14 at a pep-rally at 12:00 Noon at Rice Park, in downtown St. Paul.

“From the moment we made this move, the city of St. Paul has embraced us,” said Thunder President and General Manager Jim Froslid, “This is the start to what we intend is a long time home in the city, making it easier for a greater number of fans to see pro soccer.”

Every member of the 2004 Minnesota Thunder will be in attendance and signing autographs for fans on Friday. Come see some of your favorite Thunder players, including Johnny Menyongar, Marshall Morehead and goalkeeper Joe Warren. Also, with 12 new players on this year’s team, this is a great opportunity to meet the newest players of the Thunder. Come down to Rice Park and wish the players and coaching staff good luck on the season. Also of note, for those in attendance Subway is offering a “buy one sub, get one free” deal.

The pep-rally and Mayor’s welcome comes on the day before the Thunder’s first official game in St. Paul at James Griffin Stadium. The team will host a juggling contest for free tickets to the historic first game; anyone who can juggle 10 times consecutively will receive a free ticket to Saturday’s game. Kick-off is set for 6 p.m. versus the Edmonton Aviators. The first 2,000 fans will receive a FREE 2004 schedule magnet, courtesy of the Star Tribune.

After the pep-rally on Friday, stick around Rice Park to hear Jason Mraz perform a free concert with songs from his hit album, “Waiting For My Rocker To Come.”