The Flint Spirits were a professional hockey team in Flint, Michigan from 1985 to 1990, and played their home games at the IMA Sports Arena. They were a part of the International Hockey League and replaced the recently departed Flint Generals team. They compiled an overall record of 162–220–28. Prior to the 1990–91 season, the original Fort Wayne Komets were moved to Albany, New York, and a group from Fort Wayne, Indiana, purchased the Spirits and relocated them to Fort Wayne in time to begin the season.

Flint Spirits
CityFlint
LeagueInternational Hockey League
Operated1985–1990
Home arenaIMA Sports Arena
Franchise history
1985–1990Flint Spirits
1990–presentFort Wayne Komets
The Flint Spirits logo used for the 1988–89 season.

The Spirits were once an affiliate of the New York Rangers.

Season-by-season results

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Year GP W L T PTS GF GA Pct Standings Playoffs
1985–86 82 16 66 0 38 271 497 .232 10th of 10 Out of playoffs
1986–87 82 42 33 7 91 343 361 .550 4th of 9 Lost Quarterfinals, 2–4 vs. Saginaw Generals
1987–88 82 42 31 9 93 395 389 .567 4th of 9 Won Quarterfinals, 4–2 vs. Muskegon Lumberjacks
Won Semifinals, 4–0 vs. Saginaw Hawks
Lost Turner Cup Finals, 2–4 vs. Salt Lake Golden Eagles
1988–89 82 22 54 6 50 287 428 .305 10th of 10 Out of playoffs
1989–90 82 40 36 6 86 326 345 .518 4th of 9 Out of playoffs
Totals 410 162 220 28 358 1622 2020 .437

Notable NHL alumni

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The Flint Spirits sent numerous players to the NHL in their five years of existence. The biggest names include:

John Cullen, co-winner of the 1987–88 Gary F. Longman Memorial Trophy with Saginaw's Ed Belfour.
Ronnie Stern
Darcy Wakaluk
Rob Zamuner
Mike Richter
Paul Broten
Peter Laviolette
Jayson More
Kevin Miller

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