Lake Superior State Lakers
The sport of hockey has a rich history, filled with epic triumphs and heartbreaking losses. From the intense rivalries between teams to the nail-biting moments in the playoffs, hockey has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. And in the world of college hockey, one team stands out for their historic wins and upsets – the Lake Superior State Lakers.
Since their establishment in 1966, the Lake Superior State Lakers have been a force to be reckoned with in the world of college hockey. They have appeared in six NCAA Frozen Four Tournaments, won three Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) titles, and have produced multiple NHL players. However, it is their unforgettable moments on the ice that have solidified their place in hockey history.
In this article, we will take a trip down memory lane and relive some of the most memorable moments in Lake Superior State Lakers history – from historic upsets to championship wins.
The Beginning of a Legacy
The Lake Superior State Lakers began their journey in college hockey in 1966, as a Division II team. They quickly made their mark by establishing a winning record in only their second season. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that the Lakers would start to leave their mark in the world of college hockey.
In 1972, the Lakers made history by becoming the first Division II team to beat a Division I team – the University of Notre Dame. This iconic moment was the start of the Lakers’ journey to becoming a dominant force in the college hockey world.
The Underdog Upset of the Decade
In 1988, the Lake Superior State Lakers pulled off an incredible upset that forever changed the landscape of college hockey. In the NCAA Frozen Four Tournament, the Lakers, who had entered as a #4 seed, faced off against the heavily favored Boston College Eagles, who were the #1 seed and defending national champions.
The game was a back-and-forth battle, with the Lakers taking the lead in the third period. However, with only 18 seconds left in the game, Boston College tied the score, sending the game into overtime.
In the overtime period, it was the Lakers’ Rod Aldoff who scored the game-winning goal, leading the Lakers to a 4-3 upset victory. This victory not only marked the first time a #4 seed had won the NCAA Frozen Four, but it also solidified the Lakers as a powerhouse in college hockey.
Threepeat GLIAC Champions
From 1991 to 1993, the Lake Superior State Lakers dominated the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) and became three-time consecutive champions. Led by Coach Jeff Jackson, the Lakers showed resilience and determination in each game, outscoring their opponents by an impressive margin.
The Lakers’ third title win in 1993 was a historic one as it marked the first time a team had won three consecutive GLIAC titles. This victory solidified the Lakers as a dominant force in the GLIAC and set the tone for their continued success in the conference.
NCAA Championship Win
In 1992, the Lake Superior State Lakers made history by becoming the first Division II team to win the NCAA Division I championship. Led by future NHL goaltender Darrin Madeley, the Lakers faced off against the University of Wisconsin in the championship game.
Despite entering the game as the underdogs, the Lakers put on an impressive display of skill and determination, ultimately winning the game 5-3. This victory not only marked the Lakers’ first national championship but also solidified their place in hockey history as a powerhouse team.
The Lakers’ journey to the NCAA championship was not an easy one, as they faced tough competition in the Frozen Four Tournament. However, it was their resilience and unwavering determination that led them to the ultimate win.
NHL Success Stories
Aside from their unforgettable moments on the ice, the Lake Superior State Lakers have also produced numerous NHL players who have gone on to have successful careers. Some notable names include Doug Weight, John Grahame, Brian Rolston, and Jim Dowd.
These former Lakers have not only made a mark in the NHL but have also contributed to the success of their alma mater. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to future Lakers players, and their legacy continues to live on in the Lake Superior State hockey program.
Final notions
From historic upsets to championship wins, the Lake Superior State Lakers have solidified their place in hockey history as a dominant force in college hockey. From their humble beginnings in 1966 to their unforgettable moments on the ice, the Lakers have continuously proven themselves as a powerhouse team.
Their legacy continues to live on, inspiring generations of Lakers players to push themselves to new heights and leave their own mark on the world of hockey. As the Lakers continue to build upon their successes, their journey serves as a testament to the unifying power of the sport of hockey.
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