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Who wants it gone? There's no consensus on the matter among Native Americans, even within Spirit Lake. Some agree with the NCAA and find the nickname offensive. A group of Native American students filed a federal lawsuit to stop its use. University officials also have made a recent push asking that voters allow the nickname to be retired. Even men's hockey coach Dave Hakstol, who had been a staunch nickname supporter, has said it's time to move on. ___ What happens if the measure passes? It means the end of the battle ... maybe. A group of nickname supporters has vowed to try to get the nickname built in to the state's constitution and spent the weekend gathering signatures to put the matter on November's ballot. ___ And if it fails? Then the fight definitely continues. The NCAA has made it clear it will not allow universities with what it deems as hostile or abusive nicknames or imagery to host playoff rounds. Athletics officials say that makes scheduling difficult. And some coaches say it's already affecting the teams' ability to recruit players. ___ Bottom line: Tuesday's election marks the first time that North Dakotans as a whole get to say what they want. But it might not be the last.
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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