 The Original 1901 Maine State Flag Design (Public Domain License) The Maine hockey sweater is the most popular design in our State Sweaters lineup, but the simple design begs the question of why? What’s the story behind it? The design depicted on our sweater is actually representative of the Maine flag that was official over a century ago; it is the 1901 flag design. The flag only stayed in production for eight years before it was replaced by the current blue flag with the Maine coat of arms (1909 - Present).  Current Maine State Flag (Public Domain License) The 1901 design was the first Maine flag even though Maine became a state- separate from Massachusetts- over 80 years prior. The original Maine flag features a multi-dimensional pine tree and a blue star on a cream background. The pine tree represented the state's New England ties as pine trees had been found on regional flags since the 1600s. In addition, Maine is known affectionately as the "Pine Tree State". Unfortunately, the stylistic 1901 tree design was so complex it was tough to replicate, which is one of a couple reasons historians believe the state moved on after only eight years. There are no true copies left of the original tree design, only photographs and artistic renderings which is the reason there are a handful of reproductions out there including the Third Assist design.
Thanks to some cool local companies and initiatives, the original Maine flag has regained popularity in the last decade. A competitive bill even made it to the state legislature in 2021 to revert the flag back to the original design, but the votes ultimately fell short. With our foundations in coastal Maine, we chose the design to represent the proud Maine hockey tradition- plus we didn’t hate the fact it had some resemblance to old Hartford Whalers colors.
So what do you think of the design? Know more of the history? Feel free to share your thoughts below
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 As part of Third Assist's "Ultimate Pond Hockey Resource" we've reached out to the best pond hockey tournaments taking place this winter in the United States. We want to know where they're at, what makes them unique, and why we should visit this upcoming winter. Safe to say we're sold on the following tournaments. Thompson's Point Hockey ClassicLocation of Tournament: Thompson's Point, Portland, Maine Time of Year: Usually first or second weekend of March  Ages Welcomed to Play: Adults 18+ Size of the Tournament: We have 5 divisions (Elite, Open Plus, Open Low, Beginner and Over 40 with our max being 28 teams Special Entertainment: Live music on site provided by Brian Papson (Country artist)  Any Special Vendors? Event consist of Portland area restaurants donating food throughout the event for the players. Maine Mariners on site last year. What Sets This Tournament Apart: This event is unique do to its location, out on Thompson's Point in Portland. Also, the TPHC sets itself apart with its hybrid type outdoor hockey. We have boards and a Zamboni on site, this creates a faster game play and smoother ice. The multiple divisions allow it to stay competitive and the participants leave with a great gift bag, we have 20 plus free raffle items, free dinner and lunches. Third Assist's Take: They said it best for what makes this one unique. It's a hybrid. Small rink with boards, good ice, quick game. It's a cleaner and faster game which is always fun. The rink alone is a cool venue, but its location is what sets it apart. Portland, Maine is a happening cultural hub in the northeast and Thompson's Point has all the best aspects of Portland in one location: Good food, beer, music, and best of all hockey. Definitely worth the visit.  Where to Learn More About This Tournament:
www.thompsonpointhockeyclassic.com www.instagram.com/thompsonsphc *All photos used by permission from tournament.  As part of Third Assist's "Ultimate Pond Hockey Resource" we've reached out to the best pond hockey tournaments taking place this winter in the United States. We want to know where they're at, what makes them unique, and why we should visit this upcoming winter. Safe to say we're sold on the following tournaments. Maine Pond Hockey ClassicLocation of Tournament: Snow Pond Center for the Arts in Sidney, Maine Time of Year: February 8-10, 2019 (2nd weekend in February annually)  Ages Welcomed to Play: Adults 18+ Size of the Tournament: 70+ teams in 9 divisions Special Entertainment: Games under the lights & welcome skate on Friday night, beer garden, and a player social on Saturday evening.  Any Special Vendors: Spectrum Healthcare Partners, Bud Light, Camden National Bank What Sets This Tournament Apart: We think their trophies set Maine Pond Hockey Classic apart from any other tournament, as they are certainly one of a kind, and on top of that there is a solid mix of divisions. Players come with great attitudes. The tournament takes place at an amazing venue & backdrop as the Snow Pond Center for the Arts is located at a summer camp with over 80 years for summer traditions. Lastly the tournament is easily accessible, located within 10 minutes for I-95 and two of Maine’s larger Communities (Waterville & Augusta). Third Assist's Take: This tournament is the go-to tournament for experiencing the Pine Tree State. Before Third Assist was based in Maine we had heard about this tournament in pond hockey circles. Now we find ourselves just one hour from this tournament and we know we will be making a visit this coming winter. Fun tournament in a winter wonderland and the proceeds go to a good cause. We'll be there.  Where to Learn More About This Tournament:
www.mainepondhockey.org www.facebook.com/mainepondhockey www.twitter.com/mainepondhockey *All photos used by permission from tournament. |
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