Indianapolis Racers
The Indianapolis Racers were a major league ice hockey team that played in the World Hockey Association (WHA) from 1974 to 1978. They competed in four full seasons before folding 25 games into the 1978–79 season. They played at Market Square Arena. They were the first professional team to secure Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier.
| Indianapolis Racers | |
|---|---|
| City | Indianapolis, Indiana |
| League | World Hockey Association |
| Operated | 1974–1978 |
| Home arena | Market Square Arena |
| Colors | Blue, white, red |
| Media | WLWI-TV WNDE |
| Affiliate | Greensboro Generals |
| Championships | |
| Division titles | 1975–76 (East) |
The Racers were known in the WHA for their sometimes-fanatical fans. The franchise led the WHA in attendance for the 1976–77 season. The Racers won the 1975–76 WHA Eastern Division championship and swept the rival Cincinnati Stingers in the 1977 WHA playoffs. Notable players for the Racers include Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, Pat Stapleton, Dave Keon, Michel Dion and Kim Clackson. The Racers' best-known coach, Jacques Demers, later led the Montreal Canadiens to the 1992–93 Stanley Cup championship.