
When the puck drops tomorrow in Fargo, N.D., it will be the first time Michigan Tech has competed in the NCAA Tournament since 1981. The MiHockey staff took a look back at the year 1981, to give some perspective.
When the Michigan Tech Huskies last made the NCAA tournament, current head coach Mel Pearson, 56, was a senior on the team. Here’s a look at what else was going on in 1981:
- IBM introduced the “personal computer” in August.
- A gallon of gas cost $1.25.
- The Detroit Red Wings finished 20th of 21 teams at the conclusion of the 1980-81 season. Their playoff streak would start a decade later.
- Red Wings defenseman Niklas Kronwall was born on Jan. 12.
- Red Berenson won the NHL’s Jack Adams Award (coach of the year), leading the St. Louis Blues to the second-best record in the NHL.
- Muhammad Ali retired with a record of 55-5.
- Ronald Reagan became President.
- MTV launched on Aug. 1.
- The New York Islanders captured their second of four consecutive Stanley Cups.
- The cost of a Super Bowl was $275,000.
- Arcade classics Galaga, Frogger and Donkey Kong were released.
- Frequent Flyer Miles were first introduced by American Airlines.
- Post-It Notes was introduced by 3M.
- “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” “For Your Eyes Only” and “Friday the 13th, Part 2” were all 1981 film releases.
- “Bette Davis Eyes” by Kim Carnes was listed as the No. 1 Billboard song of 1981. Others on the top-ten include “Endless Love” by Diana Ross and Lionel Richie; “Jessie’s Girl” by Rick Springfield; “Celebration” by Kool & the Gang and “Keep on Loving You” by REO Speedwagon.
Go Huskies.