By Jon Gaede

Staff Writer

They play hockey here! For an under-valued major sport, in a small hockey market, the greater Southern California Duck fans could care less. Lord Stanley's Cup has found it's mystical way to Anaheim, champions of the National Hockey League.

They Play Hockey Here! - Orange County turns out in mass for a Laker-like celebration of the Stanley Cup.

Henry and Susan Samueli bought the team from Disney in 2005, brought in NHL stars like Scott Niedermayer, Chris Pronger, re-signed free agent Teemu Selanne and the stage was set. The Duck rolled through a physical Detroit team and then disposed of Ottawa 6-2 and took the Stanley Cup in five games.

The team had spoken freely about the significance of a Stanley Cup for perennial All-Star Teemu Selanne. After 14 seasons, the cup would be extra special for their captain. The 36 year old from Finland has made Orange County his home. He said the experience was everything he thought it would be and then graciously thanked his teammates for their play and support.

Give the Cup to Selanne - After 1,000 games in the NHL, All-Star and team captain Teemu Selanne finally raises Lord Stanley’s Cup above his head.

On Saturday, the Duck organization and the city of Anaheim put on a celebration that matched the intensity of the Angels World Series victory of 2003. Countless thousands packed the parking lot of the Honda Center to see the cup and honor their heroes. Most of the players were driven by a ‘Laker like' open air bus to the arena. As the excitement built, a helicopter descended in front of the prepared red carpet. With blades turning and fans roaring, some players, to include six foot six inch Chris Pronger who proudly raised the Stanley Cup above his tall frame and slowly marched it through the crowd on onto the stage.

Once the players had descended from the bus, they assembled across the stage to be greeted by a series of speeches. After hearing from owners and coaches, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger took the familiar podium to the roar of the crowd. As he thanked players and fans, the crowd began chanting "one more year" repeatedly. The chants were directed to Teemu Selanne, who hinted that he always dreamed of going out on top and thus retiring. For today, the Ducks of Anaheim are the keepers of the cup, 2007 champions of professional hockey.