Gophers Hockey: Minnesota celebrates World Junior gold with a giant American flag

What better way to celebrate American dominance in hockey than with A GIANT AMERICAN FLAG?

(photo taken by Nathan Wells)

The unveiling happened during a break in the first period of #1 Minnesota's game against #2 Notre Dame where the 10,021 fans gave a standing ovation complete with giant American flag. Golden Gopher freshman Mike Reilly (Columbus Blue Jackets), assistant head coach Grant Potulny and Notre Dame freshman forward Mario Lucia (Minnesota Wild) were honored for their part in Team USA's gold medal.

It's the second World Junior gold medal in four years for the Americans, who defeated Canada and Sweden on their road to the Gold, but the first giant American flag at Mariucci.

For another view, check out these shots here (across ice), here (above) and here (below).

Minnesota currently leads the Fighting Irish 3-1 in the third period.

For more University of Minnesota coverage, check outThe Daily Gopher. You can also follow SB Nation College Hockey on Twitter @sbncollegepuck.

Follow Nate on Twitter @gopherstate.