Stevens Point Journal Media

PLOVER – The village of Plover on Wednesday unveiled its new sign honoring Joe Pavelski, a standout with the San Jose Sharks of the National Hockey League and a two-time member of the U.S. Olympic Hockey Team.

The sign, next to the Welcome to Plover sign on Highway B, was created by Mada, a Stevens Point-based custom apparel and sporting goods business.

Plover Village Administrator Dan Mahoney said the idea for the sign was hatched when Pavelski was asked during an interview on ESPN whether Plover had a sign recognizing the village as his birthplace. He said no, and the village's phones began ringing as residents called to demand one. The plans were announced ahead of Joe Pavelski Day, which was celebrated Feb. 7 at the start of the Sochi Winter Olympics, in which Pavelski competed.