Introduction
Ice hockey is a popular sport in North America, and two teams that have gained significant recognition in recent years are the University of Minnesota Duluth and the University of North Dakota. Both teams have a rich history and a strong following, but how do they compare?
Location and History
The University of Minnesota Duluth is located in Duluth, Minnesota, a city on the shore of Lake Superior. The school has a long history of hockey excellence, with the Bulldogs winning five NCAA Division I championships.
The University of North Dakota is located in Grand Forks, North Dakota, and has a similar hockey pedigree to its Minnesota counterpart. The school has won eight NCAA Division I championships, making it one of the most successful college hockey programs in history.
Coaching and Players
Scott Sandelin has been the head coach of the University of Minnesota Duluth since 2000, and has led the team to all five of their NCAA championships. He is known for his defensive style of coaching and his ability to develop players for the professional ranks.
Brad Berry is the current head coach of the University of North Dakota, having taken over in 2015. He played for the school in the 1980s and has been involved in coaching at various levels for over two decades. Like Sandelin, he is known for his defensive style of coaching and his ability to develop players.
One player who has made a significant impact for the University of Minnesota Duluth in recent years is goaltender Hunter Shepard. He has won two NCAA championships with the Bulldogs and was named the Most Outstanding Player in both tournaments. Shepard has also been a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award, which is given annually to the top player in college hockey.
Jordan Kawaguchi is a forward for the University of North Dakota and has become one of the top players in college hockey. He was a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award in 2020 and was named the National Collegiate Hockey Conference Player of the Year. Kawaguchi has also been a member of the Canadian national team.
Facilities
The University of Minnesota Duluth plays its home games at AMSOIL Arena, which opened in 2010. The arena has a seating capacity of 6,726 and has hosted numerous NCAA tournament games.
The University of North Dakota plays its home games at Ralph Engelstad Arena, which opened in 2001. The arena has a seating capacity of 11,643 and is known for its state-of-the-art facilities and amenities.
Rivalries
The University of Minnesota Duluth and the University of North Dakota have developed a strong rivalry over the years. The two teams have played numerous times in the NCAA tournament, with both schools winning multiple championships. The rivalry has also spilled over into the National Hockey League, with former players from both schools facing off against each other.
Conclusion
Both the University of Minnesota Duluth and the University of North Dakota have established themselves as elite college hockey programs, with a rich history of success and a loyal fanbase. While the two schools have many similarities, their differences add to the excitement of their matchups and make for a compelling rivalry.
