University of Denver, Colorado College both ranked top 10 before rivalry face-off

DENVER (KDVR) — The Gold Pan might be theirs, but the University of Denver hockey team is looking to strike it rich heading into the postseason.

This weekend, the #4 Pioneers will renew their storied rivalry with #10 Colorado College. For the first time since 2012, both programs will face off against each other as top 10 ranked foes.

“We knew early on in the year that they were on the upswing as a program,” said DU head coach David Carle before the 325th meeting between the hockey rivals. “I’m not surprised to see their successes this season and that they’re in the top 10. We are looking forward to the opportunity of playing another excellent team in our league.”

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The Pioneers claimed the Gold Pan with a 6-1, 5-1 sweep in November, which secured the trophy for DU’s fifth consecutive season.

The regular season finale series has seeding implications for both teams ahead of the National Collegiate Hockey Conference postseason.

“We’re improving, getting better and forced into uncomfortable situations leading us to find a way to deal with it,” said Carle. “And it doesn’t get any easier this weekend.”

DU and CC will drop the puck on Friday at 8 p.m. at Ed Robson Arena in Colorado Springs before the Pioneers host the season finale and senior night at 7:30 p.m. at Magness Arena.

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