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On-Ice Success Leads To Big Business For Minnesota Wild

ST. PAUL, Minn. (WCCO) -- As the season winds down for the Minnesota Wild, a postseason run seems more and more likely.

With six games left in the regular season, the team has a firm grip on the wildcard spot and that means fans are taking steps to lock in seats to see the playoff action.

When the Minnesota Wild secure wins on the ice, there's also plenty of success off the ice.

"It's been crazy busy in here," Emily Hare, an employee at the Hockey Lodge in the Xcel Energy Center, said.

At the Hockey Lodge, the rush comes from customers who want to wear their team allegiance.

"The team is doing great and people want to support us," Hare said.

But the real surge is happening in the team's front office.  Since the beginning of March, season ticket sales have reached record-highs for this time of year.

"It's very exciting this momentum and the home wins, just this past weekend, have been epic for the Wild organization, Jamie Spencer, vice president of new business development with the Minnesota Wild, said.

A sales staff of 30 fills long days with non-stop calls, often ending with a sale.

"We don't mind putting in our hours, just like our team is," Spencer said.

Existing ticket-holders want more seats, even in the twilight of the season. Newcomers are locking into next year, all because of the added perk.

"They do it in hopes the team makes the playoffs and they can maximize the number of people going to the games. So, season ticket holders stand the best chance of doing it.  They're jumping on board now hoping the team extends the season," Spencer said.

Sure, a lot can happen between now and the postseason. But with last 24 of 30 games ending with a win, it's a sure bet more fans will put their money on the Minnesota Wild.

"People are so quick to call and get playoff seats and re-up for next year.  We don't think this is a one-year run.  We think they're in it for a long time," Spencer said.

The Wild say season tickets are selling so fast, there may come a point where those who wait to buy next year's season tickets will go a waiting list. The last time that happened was about 10 years ago.

Another driving force behind the uptick in season ticket sales is the interest in next year's outdoor game at TCF Bank Stadium where, the Wild will take on the Chicago Blackhawks.

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