Boston College
Boston College, a private research university located in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, is known for its prestigious academic programs, beautiful campus, and rich sports history. Among their many successful athletic programs, one that stands out is their ice hockey team, the Boston College Eagles. Since the establishment of their ice hockey program in 1917, the Eagles have become a dominant force in the world of college hockey, with multiple national championships and a long list of successful alumni. But what truly sets them apart from other teams is their fierce rivalry with two other New England schools: Boston University and Harvard University. In this article, we will take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most epic matchups between Boston College and their two arch-rivals, and how these games have shaped the rich history and culture of the Boston College ice hockey program.
The Backstory: Boston College and Their Rivals
Boston College’s ice hockey program has a long-standing rivalry with both Boston University and Harvard University, which are also located in the greater Boston area. This rivalry stems from the close proximity of these three schools and the fact that they all compete in the highly competitive Hockey East conference. These teams have been battling it out on the ice for decades, with each game bringing an intense level of competition and passion from players and fans alike.
The rivalry between Boston College and Boston University, often referred to as the Battle of Comm Ave., is one of the most heated rivalries in all of college sports. This rivalry dates back to 1917, when Boston University established its ice hockey program just a year after Boston College. Since then, both teams have been vying for the top spot in the Hockey East Conference and have faced each other over 260 times. From winning championships to memorable upsets, the Boston College-Boston University rivalry has it all.
On the other hand, the rivalry between Boston College and Harvard University, known as the Clash of the Champions, is slightly more recent. It all started in the 1940s, when both teams were considered powerhouses in the college hockey world. With multiple national championships under their belts, this rivalry is fueled by the fact that both teams have achieved a high level of success and are constantly pushing each other to be better.
Most Memorable Matchups: Boston College vs. Boston University
One of the most talked-about matchups between the Eagles and the Terriers is the 2012 Beanpot championship game. Dubbed the Miracle at the Garden, Boston College was down 1-0 to Boston University for most of the game until they scored two goals in the final minute of regulation to take the lead and win the game. This comeback victory is considered one of the greatest comebacks in college hockey history and has solidified the Eagles’ place in the hearts of their fans.
Another memorable matchup between these two rivals was during the 2005 Hockey East championship game. Boston College, which had a record of only 15-20-2 that year, went up against a highly ranked Boston University team that had won their previous three meetings that season. However, the Eagles shocked everyone by pulling off a 5-3 upset victory, claiming their fourth Hockey East championship title.
Most Memorable Matchups: Boston College vs. Harvard University
One of the most iconic games between Boston College and Harvard University happened in 1949 during the NCAA Championship game. This matchup is considered significant not only because it was the first NCAA hockey championship game but also because it solidified Boston College’s status as a powerhouse in college hockey. The Eagles beat the Crimson 4-3, claiming their first-ever national title.
In recent years, a memorable matchup between these two schools was during the 2017 Beanpot championship game. Boston College and Harvard went head-to-head, with the Eagles taking an early lead. However, the Crimson made a comeback in the third period, scoring two goals and forcing the game into overtime. It was then that Boston College stepped up and scored the game-winning goal, once again securing the Beanpot trophy.
The Impact of These Rivalries
The intense rivalry between these three storied programs has not only fueled the passion and competitiveness of the teams, but it has also brought the larger Boston community together. These matchups are highly anticipated by fans, who support their team with unwavering loyalty. The players themselves also feel the pressure and immense pride that come with representing their respective schools in these historic matchups.
Moreover, this rivalry has added a sense of tradition and legacy to the Boston College ice hockey program. It has become a part of the school’s identity, and each game is a chance for the Eagles to show their strength and dominance on the ice. The intensity of these games is something that every fan, player, and alumni can look forward to each season.
In Conclusion
From thrilling comebacks to championship wins, the Boston College ice hockey program has a storied history with their rivals, Boston University and Harvard University. These matchups have brought out the best in both teams and added a depth of tradition and pride to the Eagles’ program. As Boston College continues to dominate the college hockey world, one thing is for sure: their fierce rivalries will continue to be a source of motivation and fuel for the team to achieve even greater success in the future.
Topics: