The Minnesota Wild has had a flag-bearer since its inaugural game in 2000.

As the Wild host the Blues tonight, Bradley Horecka of Albert Lea has been given the honor to wave the team flag.

Bradley will skate past the Wild’s bench to see the team up close before the national anthem is sung.

Horecka’s father, Doug, said Bradley has been playing hockey since he was three years old.

“It is his passion,” Doug said. “Any chance he gets to be on the ice, he takes it. Win or lose, he has a smile on his face because he has fun.”

Bradley, 11, plays goalie for the Albert Lea squirts hockey team.

The opening faceoff will be at 7 p.m., and the game will be televised on Fox Sports Network.