In April of 2009, the Knoxville Ice Bears became the first Southern Professional Hockey League team to win back-to-back President’s Cups. They also earned their second consecutive SPHL Championship; winning their third championship in four years. The playoffs were hard fought, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. An overtime win in game seven allowed the Ice Bears to advance to the Championship series. The series, played against the Fayetteville FireAntz, also included an exciting game seven. In that game, the Ice Bears goalie Kirk Irving allowed just one goal to ensure the win. Irving was named the Championship series MVP for his efforts. The crowd gave a standing ovation and chanted “one more year” as team captain, Kevin Swider received the Cup. As one reporter observed, “the Knoxville Ice Bears are a dynasty in the Southern Professional Hockey League.”
