News release by Brian Deutsch Assistant Director of Athletic Communications-Golden Gophers Athletics.
Gophers, North Dakota Renew Historic Rivalry
MINNEAPOLIS – The most prolific rivalry in college hockey returns during the 2016-17 season as the University of Minnesota and the University of North Dakota have agreed to terms on a two-year deal that will renew a rivalry dating back to 1930.
The Gophers will host North Dakota for a two-game series in 2016-17 at Mariucci Arena and then travel to Grand Forks for a road series in 2017-18. Dates for both series will be determined at a later time.
“We’re thrilled to officially get North Dakota back on our schedule and to renew one of the greatest rivalries in our sport,” Minnesota head coach Don Lucia said. “This rivalry is great for our programs, great for college hockey and great for our fans, and we’re excited to bring North Dakota back to Mariucci Arena.”
The two programs battled each year from 1948 to 2013 before conference realignment put the rivalry on a three-year hiatus. Minnesota owns a 145-130-15 all-time record against North Dakota with the final meeting between the two rivals ending in a 4-4 overtime tie on Jan. 19, 2013 at Mariucci Arena.
"This is a rivalry that our fans, alumni and team look forward to renewing,” North Dakota head coach Dave Hakstol said. “It is one of the most heated in all of college sports."
Two of the most decorated programs in college hockey, Minnesota and North Dakota have combined for 12 national championships, 39 NCAA Frozen Four appearances, and six Hobey Baker Award winners. The Gophers are currently in their first season of competition in the Big Ten Conference while North Dakota is in its first season with the National Collegiate Hockey Conference.
-Pride on Ice-