Gophers hockey to renew rivalry with North Dakota in 2016-17 season
MINNEAPOLIS -- A move to the Big Ten Conference meant the Gophers men's hockey team would no longer be facing rival North Dakota on a regular basis. That rivalry now has a return date.
The University of Minnesota announced Thursday that it has a two-year agreement with North Dakota, beginning with games during the 2016-17 season. The Gophers will host UND for two games at Mariucci Arena that year and will then travel to Grand Forks, N.D. for two games at Ralph Engelstad Arena during the 2017-18 season. Times and dates are yet to be announced.
Minnesota and North Dakota have played each other since 1948, with the Gophers owning a 145-130-15 record in the series. The two rivals have combined for 12 national titles and six Hobey Baker winners over the years, which has only added to the heated competition between the bordering states.
"We're thrilled to officially get North Dakota back on our schedule and to renew one of the greatest rivalries in our sport," Gophers head coach Don Lucia said in a statement. "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."
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