Marquette Iron Rangers were a semi-pro senior ice hockey team from Marquette, Michigan that played in the United States Hockey League from 1964-1976 where they were five-time champions (three league and two playoffs). The team played the majority of their home games at The Palestra.[1]
The Marquette Iron Rangers made ice hockey history when they signed the female goalie phenomenon, Karen Koch, to a professional contract in 1969.[2] By doing so, Koch became the first woman to play professional hockey in North America, if not the world.[3] The 1973-1994 team featured the Carlson Brothers. Jack Carlson went onto play in the NHL and WHA, while his brothers Steve Carlson and Jeff Carlson became famous for starring as the Hanson Brothers in the movie Slap Shot. Steve also played in the NHL and WHA while Jeff played in the WHA.