Clarkson Hockey
For decades, the Clarkson hockey program has been a powerhouse in the world of college hockey. With a rich history and a fierce rivalry with many other top teams, Clarkson has captured the hearts of fans and players alike. In this article, we will take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most important matchups in Clarkson’s history, giving a historical perspective on these classic games.
The Early Days – Clarkson vs. St. Lawrence
In the early years of Clarkson’s hockey program, one of their biggest rivals was their neighboring school, St. Lawrence University. Located in Canton, New York, just 10 miles from Clarkson’s campus, St. Lawrence was a natural rival for the Golden Knights. The two teams first met in a hockey game in 1922 and have been playing against each other ever since.
One of the most memorable matchups between these two teams was the 1961 ECAC Championship game. Clarkson, led by Hall of Fame coach Len Ceglarski, faced off against St. Lawrence in a nail-biting game that ended in a 2-2 tie. Despite their best efforts, neither team was able to break the tie, resulting in the first ever shared ECAC Championship title. This game not only showcased the rivalry between these two teams, but also the high level of talent and competitiveness in college hockey at the time.
Another notable game between these two teams was the 1985 Division 1 Men’s Ice Hockey Championship. Clarkson, led by captain Craig Conroy, faced off against St. Lawrence in a thrilling game that went into double overtime. Despite a valiant effort from both teams, St. Lawrence emerged as the victor, solidifying their status as one of Clarkson’s biggest rivals.
The Battle of the North Country – Clarkson vs. Colgate
As Clarkson cemented their status as one of the top teams in college hockey, they developed a fierce rivalry with another New York school, Colgate University. Nicknamed “The Battle of the North Country,” this rivalry has been going strong since 1938, with both teams consistently competing for the top spot in the ECAC and the national title.
One of the most famous games between these two teams occurred in the 1991 ECAC Championship. Clarkson, ranked number one in the nation, faced off against Colgate, ranked number two, in a showdown that defined the rivalry between these two teams. In an incredible display of skill and determination, Clarkson emerged as the winner, capturing their first ever ECAC Championship title.
Another iconic matchup between Clarkson and Colgate was the 2007 NCAA Frozen Four. After both teams made it through the tournament, they found themselves facing off once again in the semifinals. It was a hard fought battle with both teams giving it their all, but in the end, it was Colgate who came out on top, winning 3-1 and advancing to the championship game.
The Rivalry Rekindled – Clarkson vs. Cornell
The rivalry between Clarkson and Cornell University is one of the longest standing in college hockey. These two teams first faced off in 1922 and have played against each other more than 160 times since then. With both teams constantly competing for the top spot in the ECAC, their games have become must-see events for fans.
One of the most memorable moments in this rivalry occurred in the 1966 ECAC Championship game. Clarkson, led by future NHL Hall of Famer Dick Green, faced off against Cornell in a game that is still talked about today. In a thrilling game that went to triple overtime, Cornell emerged as the winner, capturing their first ever ECAC Championship title.
Another notable game between these two teams was the 1999 NCAA Frozen Four. After a season-long battle for the top spot in the ECAC, Clarkson and Cornell found themselves facing off in the semifinals of the national tournament. In a back and forth game, Cornell emerged as the winner, denying Clarkson a shot at the national title.
Conclusion
Clarkson University has a long and storied history in the world of college hockey, with a fierce rivalry with many top teams. From their early days facing off against St. Lawrence, to their ongoing battles with Colgate and Cornell, Clarkson has become a powerhouse in the sport. These important matchups have not only defined the rivalry between these teams, but also showcase the high level of competition and talent in the world of college hockey. As we look forward to the upcoming season, fans can’t help but wonder what classic matchups and intense rivalries will emerge on the ice.
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