Minnesota State was ranked ninth nationally. This represented the highest ranking of Hayden Fox (Craig T. Nelson)'s coaching career.
Howard Burleigh (Kenneth Kimmons) was a member of the Fraternal Oder of Loons, named after the state bird of Minnesota. The common loon (Gavia immer) was adopted as the official state bird in 1961.
Howard Burleigh (Kenneth Kimmons) was vying with Carl Gleeber and Ned Plank in an election for the position of High Loon, a title indicating the most revered member of the Fraternal Oder of Loons. The High Loon had the authority to request a special dessert at a meeting.
Howard Burleigh (Kenneth Kimmons) had the most feathers in his cap of any member of the Fraternal Oder of Loons. The organization added feathers in members' cap for acts of distinguished service. Burleigh was also responsible for securing guest speakers for meetings.
Shirley Burleigh (Georgia Engel) was a member of the Lady Loons, the women's auxiliary arm of the Fraternal Oder of Loons. In accordance with tradition, they sat with their backs to the men during organization meetings.