Dartmouth vs Harvard Rivalry
The sport of hockey has a long and storied history, with rivalries that often span decades and even centuries. These rivalries are more than just a series of games between two teams, but a clash of culture, pride, and history. In the world of college hockey, one rivalry stands out above the rest – the rivalry between Dartmouth College and their neighboring Ivy League foe, Harvard University.
With a history dating back to the early 1900s, the Dartmouth-Harvard rivalry is one of the oldest and most heated in all of college sports. The two teams first faced off on the ice in 1913, and since then, have played each other over 150 times. Each game is a battle for bragging rights and the chance to claim victory over their bitter rival.
But what makes this rivalry so special? Let’s take a look at the historical perspective of the Dartmouth-Harvard matchups and dive into the intense competition and storied traditions that have shaped this rivalry over the years.
Early Years: The Beginning of a Tradition
In the early 20th century, hockey was gaining popularity among college students, and many universities were quick to establish teams and rivalries. Dartmouth and Harvard were no exception. The two schools, separated by a mere 100 miles in New England, quickly became fierce competitors on the ice.
The first meeting between the two teams in 1913 resulted in a shutout victory for Dartmouth, but Harvard quickly evened the score in their next matchup. From then on, the games were consistently close, with each team fighting for dominance on the ice.
Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, both schools established themselves as powerhouses in the world of college hockey, with each winning multiple championships. This only fueled the intensity of the rivalry, as both teams fought fiercely for the top spot.
The Ted Brown Years
The rivalry between Dartmouth and Harvard reached its peak during the tenure of Dartmouth’s beloved coach, Edward Ted Brown. The coaching legend spent 29 years leading the Dartmouth hockey team to numerous victories over Harvard and other top schools.
The 1955-1956 season was particularly memorable for the rivalry, as both teams were neck and neck for the Ivy League Championship. The final game of the season saw Dartmouth pull off a stunning victory over Harvard, securing both the championship and bragging rights over their rival.
But it wasn’t just about the games themselves. Coach Brown, known for his larger-than-life personality and love for the sport, infused a sense of passion and camaraderie in his players that extended beyond the ice. To this day, his legacy lives on at Dartmouth, and the rivalry with Harvard continues to be fiercely contested.
Recent Matchups: The Tradition Lives On
The rivalry between Dartmouth and Harvard remains one of the most intense and passionate in all of college hockey. In recent years, the teams have continued to face off in highly anticipated matchups that draw in fans from both schools.
In the 2019-2020 season, Dartmouth and Harvard met twice on the ice, with each game resulting in a close one-goal victory for the winning team. The intensity of the rivalry was on full display, as both teams battled it out until the very end.
But it’s not just about the games themselves. The traditions, rituals, and camaraderie surrounding this rivalry are just as important as the games themselves. Each year, both schools come together for an annual charity event known as the Rivalry on Ice, which raises thousands of dollars for various causes. This event not only showcases the competitive nature of the rivalry but also highlights the sense of community and sportsmanship between the two schools.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Passion, Pride, and Competition
The Dartmouth-Harvard rivalry is one that has stood the test of time, with a history and tradition that is unmatched in the world of college hockey. It is a rivalry that represents more than just two teams facing off on the ice, but a deep-seated passion, pride, and sense of community that has shaped these two institutions.
As the two teams continue to battle it out on the ice, their rivalry will remain one of the most iconic and treasured in all of college sports. And for hockey fans, there’s nothing quite like the excitement and intensity of a Dartmouth-Harvard matchup.
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