Griffins Flashback: April 13

Take a look back at this date in Griffins history.

April 13, 2019
Grand Rapids falls 5-0 at Milwaukee in its regular season finale, but a Manitoba loss to Chicago allows the Griffins to clinch a berth in the Calder Cup Playoffs, extending their franchise-record postseason streak to seven years. (Photos)

April 13, 2016
A “Water for Flint” drive held before the Griffins’ 5-3 loss to Lake Erie results in the collection of 28,000 bottles of water – equivalent to 3,700 gallons – through the donations of fans as well as the donations and efforts of the Griffins, Michigan Office Solutions and Pepsi and their employees. All water donations are subsequently delivered to the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan for distribution to Flint residents. (Photos)

April 13, 2015
Captain Jeff Hoggan is named the winner of the Fred T. Hunt Memorial Award as the AHL player who best exemplifies the qualities of sportsmanship, determination and dedication to hockey. Despite being the oldest skater and second-oldest player in the AHL, the two-time Calder Cup champion finishes the season as one of only two Griffins to appear in all 76 games, leading them to their third straight playoff berth. He becomes the second Griffin in four years to win the award, following Chris Minard’s selection in 2011-12.

April 13, 2013
Despite suffering a frustrating and controversial 4-3 overtime loss to Peoria, the Griffins secure their first Calder Cup playoff berth in four years thanks to Milwaukee’s 3-1 loss to Rockford. (Photos)

April 13, 2002
In their first-ever AHL Calder Cup Playoff game, the Griffins take a 4-1 victory over Chicago in Game 1 of the Western Conference Quarterfinals.

April 13, 1997
The Griffins close out the regular season with a 4-2 win over Michigan before the 39th sellout crowd of 10,834 at Van Andel Arena. For their season-long support, Griffins fans are collectively named the first star of the game. The Griffins finish sixth in the Eastern Conference standings and draw third-seed Orlando in the first round of the Turner Cup Playoffs.