As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
The rivalry between Edina vs Benilde hockey teams is one that has captured the attention of hockey enthusiasts for years. Both schools, located in the suburbs of Minneapolis, Minnesota, boast strong hockey programs with a rich history of success. In this article, we will delve into the details of this intense rivalry, highlighting key moments, notable players, and the factors that contribute to the excitement surrounding these two teams.
As the winter season approaches, there’s one thing that hockey fans in Minnesota eagerly anticipate: the annual showdown between the Edina Hornets and the Benilde-St. Margaret’s Red Knights. The rivalry between these two teams is legendary, with each game drawing large crowds and showcasing some of the best high school hockey talent in the state. In this blog post, we will dive into the history of both teams, explore the rivalry, highlight key moments, and discuss the players to watch in the upcoming season. So, grab your jerseys and get ready for an in-depth look at the Edina vs Benilde hockey rivalry.
History of the Rivalry
- Edina and Benilde-St. Margaret’s (BSM) have been battling it out on the ice for decades.
- Both schools have a strong tradition of success in Minnesota high school hockey.
- The rivalry has intensified over the years, with several memorable games and playoff matchups.
Edina Hornets: A Brief History
- Founded in 1949
- 13 state championships
- Numerous NHL alumni
- Known for their strong defensive play and disciplined style
The Edina Hornets have a storied history dating back to their founding in 1949. Over the years, the team has won an impressive 13 state championships, making them one of the most successful high school hockey programs in Minnesota. The Hornets have also produced numerous NHL alumni, including Brian Burke, Dave Langevin, and Curt Giles. Known for their strong defensive play and disciplined style, the Hornets are a force to be reckoned with on the ice.
Benilde-St. Margaret’s Red Knights: A Brief History
- Founded in 1974
- 3 state championships
- Known for their high-scoring offense and fast-paced play
- Strong sense of community and support from fans
The Benilde-St. Margaret’s Red Knights were founded in 1974 and have since become one of the top high school hockey programs in the state. With three state championships under their belt, the Red Knights have made a name for themselves with their high-scoring offense and fast-paced play. The team also benefits from a strong sense of community and support from their fans, making their games an exciting experience for all involved.
The Rivalry: Edina vs Benilde
- Dates back to the 1970s
- Intense competition between the two teams
- Both teams have a strong desire to win and prove themselves
- Games often have playoff implications
The rivalry between the Edina Hornets and the Benilde-St. Margaret’s Red Knights dates back to the 1970s, with both teams consistently battling for supremacy on the ice. The intense competition between the two teams stems from their strong desire to win and prove themselves as the best in the state. With both programs having a history of success, their games often have playoff implications, adding even more excitement and tension to the rivalry.
Key Moments in the Rivalry
- 1982 State Championship game
- 2012 Section 6AA Championship game
- 2018 State Championship game
- Numerous regular-season showdowns
Throughout the history of the Edina vs Benilde rivalry, there have been several key moments that have stood out. In 1982, the two teams faced off in the state championship game, with Edina emerging victorious. In 2012, the Red Knights defeated the Hornets in the Section 6AA Championship game. Propelling them to a state championship that year. More recently, in 2018, the two teams clashed in the state championship game once again, with Edina claiming the title. In addition to these high-stakes games. There have been numerous regular-season showdowns that have provided thrilling hockey action for fans of both teams.
Players to Watch
- Upcoming stars from both teams
- NHL prospects
- Players who have made significant contributions to their team’s success
As with any great rivalry, the Edina vs Benilde hockey games showcase some of the best high school hockey talent in Minnesota. Keep an eye out for upcoming stars from both teams who are poised to make a significant impact in the coming season. Additionally, there are several NHL prospects who have the potential to take their game to the next level. Finally, be sure to watch for players who have made significant contributions to their team’s success, as they will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the outcome of the game.
Notable Players and Alumni
Key Matchups and Moments
The Impact of Coaching
- The role of coaches in shaping the teams and rivalry
- Edina’s Curt Giles: former NHL player and successful coach
- Benilde’s Ken Pauly: experienced and well-respected coach
- The strategic battle between the two coaching staffs
An often overlooked aspect of the Edina vs Benilde hockey rivalry is the impact of coaching. Both teams have been fortunate to have experienced and successful coaches guiding their players and shaping the identity of their respective programs.
Curt Giles, the head coach of the Edina Hornets, is a former NHL player who brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the team. Under his guidance, the Hornets have continued to find success on the ice and have maintained their reputation as a disciplined and defensively strong team.
On the other side, Ken Pauly, the head coach of the Benilde-St. Margaret’s Red Knights, is a well-respected figure in the Minnesota high school hockey community. With his experience and coaching expertise, Pauly has helped shape the Red Knights into a high-scoring, fast-paced team that is always a threat on the ice.
The strategic battle between the two coaching staffs adds another layer of depth to the rivalry. As each coach looks to outsmart the other and lead their team to victory.
The Role of the Fans
- Passionate fanbases for both teams
- The “Cake Eaters” of Edina
- The “Red Army” of Benilde-St. Margaret’s
- Creating an electric atmosphere during games
A key element that fuels the Edina vs Benilde hockey rivalry is the passionate fanbases of both teams. The Edina fans, affectionately known as the “Cake Eaters,” are known for their unwavering support of the Hornets and their dedication to attending games and cheering on their team.
Similarly, the Benilde-St. Margaret’s fans, dubbed the “Red Army,” are a loyal and enthusiastic group that rallies behind their team and creates a boisterous atmosphere during games.
The energy and passion of both fanbases contribute to an electric atmosphere during games. Making the rivalry even more intense and exciting for players and spectators alike.
The Future of the Rivalry
- The continued success of both programs
- The next generation of talented players
- The ongoing battle for supremacy in Minnesota high school hockey
As we look ahead to the future of the Edina vs Benilde hockey rivalry. It’s clear that both programs will continue to be successful and produce talented players. With each new season comes a fresh crop of talent, eager to make their mark on the storied rivalry and contribute to their team’s success.
The ongoing battle for supremacy in Minnesota high school hockey will undoubtedly continue. With each team looking to assert their dominance and claim bragging rights over their rival. As fans, we can look forward to many more thrilling games and memorable moments in the years to come.
Factors Contributing to the Rivalry
The Impact on the Community
In Conclusion
The Edina vs Benilde hockey rivalry is one that captivates fans and players alike. The history, notable alumni, and intense competition make this rivalry a must-watch event for hockey enthusiasts. As both schools continue to produce top-tier talent and compete for championships, the excitement surrounding this rivalry shows no signs of slowing down.
The Edina vs Benilde hockey rivalry is one for the ages, providing excitement and intense competition for players and fans alike. With a rich history and numerous memorable moments, this rivalry showcases the best of high school hockey in Minnesota. As we look forward to the upcoming season, there’s no doubt that the latest chapter in this storied rivalry will be one to remember.