The rivalry between Northern Michigan University (NMU) and Michigan Technological University (MTU) is one of the most intense and storied in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I ice hockey. Both teams have a rich history of competition, with their matches often drawing large crowds and generating significant media attention. While both teams have their strengths and weaknesses, there are five key differences that set them apart and contribute to the excitement of their rivalry.
1. Team History and Tradition
Northern Michigan University's hockey program has a longer and more storied history, dating back to 1976. The Wildcats have won two NCAA championships, in 1991 and 1995, and have appeared in the NCAA tournament 12 times. They have also produced several NHL players, including goaltender Tuomas Tarkki and forward Mark Olver. In contrast, Michigan Tech's hockey program was established in 1919 but has only recently gained prominence, winning two WCHA championships in 2015 and 2017.
WCHA Championships
Michigan Tech has had more success in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA) championships, winning two titles in the last five years. NMU, on the other hand, has not won a WCHA championship since 2010.
2. Coaching Experience and Style
Grant Potulny, the head coach of Northern Michigan University, has a more extensive coaching experience, with over 10 years of experience in the NCAA. He has led the Wildcats to two NCAA tournament appearances and has a reputation for being a strong recruiter. In contrast, Joe Shawhan, the head coach of Michigan Tech, has less experience but has still managed to lead the Huskies to two WCHA championships.
Coaching Philosophy
Coach Potulny is known for his emphasis on speed and skill, often relying on his team's quickness and agility to outmaneuver opponents. Coach Shawhan, on the other hand, focuses on a more physical and defensive-minded approach, using his team's size and strength to wear down opponents.
3. Roster Composition and Depth
Northern Michigan University has a more experienced roster, with several upperclassmen who have been with the program for multiple years. The Wildcats also have a strong corps of defensemen, including senior Adam Rockwood, who has been a key contributor to the team's success. Michigan Tech, on the other hand, has a younger roster, with several freshmen and sophomores who are still developing their skills.
Roster Depth
NMU has a deeper roster, with more players who can contribute on both offense and defense. The Wildcats have a strong group of forwards, including junior Griffin Loughran, who has been one of the team's top scorers. MTU, on the other hand, has a more top-heavy roster, with several players who are expected to carry the load on offense.
4. Home Ice Advantage
Northern Michigan University's Berry Events Center has a seating capacity of over 4,000, providing a significant home ice advantage for the Wildcats. The arena's loud and energetic atmosphere can be intimidating for opposing teams, and NMU has a strong record at home, winning over 70% of their games at the Berry Events Center. Michigan Tech's MacInnes Student Ice Arena has a smaller seating capacity, but the Huskies have still managed to develop a strong home ice advantage, winning over 60% of their games at home.
Crowd Support
Both teams have strong crowd support, but NMU's fans are known for being particularly vocal and dedicated. The Wildcats' "Wildcat Nation" has a reputation for being one of the most passionate and knowledgeable fan bases in the NCAA.
5. Rivalry History and Intensity
The rivalry between Northern Michigan University and Michigan Tech is fueled by the two teams' geographic proximity and their shared history in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The two teams have been competing for over 30 years, and their matches are often intense and physical, with a high level of emotion and intensity. The rivalry is also fueled by the fact that both teams are competing for the same recruits and the same fans, adding an extra layer of competition to their matches.
Intensity and Physicality
The matches between NMU and MTU are often characterized by their intensity and physicality, with both teams willing to do whatever it takes to win. The rivalry is also fueled by the fact that both teams have a strong dislike for each other, which can sometimes boil over into conflicts on and off the ice.
In conclusion, the rivalry between Northern Michigan University and Michigan Tech is one of the most intense and storied in the NCAA. While both teams have their strengths and weaknesses, the five key differences outlined above contribute to the excitement and intensity of their rivalry. Whether it's the team's history and tradition, coaching experience and style, roster composition and depth, home ice advantage, or rivalry history and intensity, there's no denying that these two teams have a deep and abiding dislike for each other.
Gallery of NMU vs MTU Hockey Rivalry
What is the history of the NMU-MTU hockey rivalry?
+The NMU-MTU hockey rivalry dates back to the 1970s, when both teams began competing in the NCAA. The two teams have a long and storied history, with several intense and physical matches over the years.
Who has won more matches in the NMU-MTU hockey rivalry?
+Northern Michigan University has won more matches in the NMU-MTU hockey rivalry, with a record of 55-45-5 against Michigan Tech.
What is the name of the arena where NMU plays their home games?
+Northern Michigan University plays their home games at the Berry Events Center.
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