Is That Really A Chicken On Delano’s Hockey Jersey?

If you were watching the Class A state hockey tournament yesterday on Channel 45, you might have spotted something that looked odd or off on the Delano hockey jerseys. On one shoulder, there was an American flag, but on the other shoulder, there appeared to be a standing figure, with its arms in a 'Superman' type pose. On closer inspection, it looks like a chicken, but why?

Standing Chicken Statue Part Of Delano History

Before we get into the chicken on the jersey, there is a chicken statue in Delano that has been around for years.

The chicken sits, or should I say stands, along Highway 12 at the intersection of County Line Road. Behind the standing chicken is Flippin Bills and Clucky's Kitchen. Flippin Bills actually started as a Tom Thumb in 1977, where the owner, Jon Hanson, introduced broasted chicken.

In 1987, the convenience store needed more space for pumps, so it was moved to the first parcel of land available as you enter Delano, where it still stands, and has since been renamed Flippin Bills.

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In 1989, after the new store was built, the owners decided to add something to the store to make it stand out. What they chose seems to have been a wise choice, as it has become iconic in the community. That's right, the chicken statue was introduced in 1989.

Did The Chicken Make The Hockey Jersey?

It appears that Filppin Bill's is connected to the hockey team in some form, as the iconic chicken has not only made it into the shoulder of the jersey, but the goalie for Delano has a Flippin Bill's chicken statute painted on his helmet!

The chicken must be lucky, as Delano got the win yesterday over Mankato West, 6-2, so the Tigers advance to take on Warroad Friday at 1pm. In case you were wondering, Delano is in its 5th State Hockey Tournament, and they have finally advanced past the quarterfinals, with the win over Mankato West.

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