Denver Pioneers Face Minnesota in Hall of Fame Hockey Clash
Get ready, Denver! Thanksgiving weekend brings a major college hockey event to Ball Arena as the University of Denver Pioneers host the University of Minnesota for the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game. Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 29th, for what promises to be an electrifying matchup right here in our city.
Premier College Hockey Returns to Ball Arena
For the first time in over a decade, the University of Denver will host the prestigious U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game. This highly anticipated event showcases two of college hockey’s most storied programs battling it out on an NHL stage.
A Battle of Hockey Blue Bloods
This isn’t just any game; it’s a clash between two “blue bloods” of college hockey. According to Coach David Carle, the matchup features programs with a combined 15 national championships, promising an elite level of play. Fans can expect to see over 25 NHL draft picks on the ice, offering a glimpse into the future of professional hockey.
Pioneers Ready for the Big Stage
The Pioneers are no strangers to Ball Arena, having played there in 2023 against Colorado College for the Gold Pan trophy. Forward Reiger Lorenz vividly remembers the nearly 18,000 fans who cheered them on to a 2-0 victory against their in-state rival.
“There were lots of fans that were supporting us, so it was super cool for us,” Lorenz shared. “It made us feel pretty special to beat an in-state rival, so it was a special game. I remember it pretty vividly.”
More Than Just a Game
For players like Lorenz, who has been drafted by the Minnesota Wild, this game presents a unique opportunity to showcase his skills against a team from the state where his professional career may begin. Coach Carle also highlights the importance of playing in an NHL building for the aspiring athletes. “It’s the level they all aspire to. They want to play in the National Hockey League, having a chance to play in an NHL building,” he noted.
Vice Chancellor for Athletics Josh Berlo emphasizes that securing this game is a “statement about the power and strength and the loyalty of our fan base and the cachet and the legacy and the tradition of Denver hockey.” It’s an event for the whole family, with many players, including Lorenz, having family in the stands to cheer them on.
A Chance for Redemption
Beyond the excitement and fan support, the Pioneers also have a bit of a score to settle. DU previously faced the University of Minnesota in the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game back in 2004 in St. Paul, suffering a 5-2 loss to the Golden Gophers. This upcoming game provides a prime opportunity for the Pioneers to seek revenge on home ice.
Game Day at a Glance
| Feature | 2023 Gold Pan Game (vs. Colorado College) | 2025 Hall of Fame Game (vs. University of Minnesota) |
|---|---|---|
| Date | 2023 (Date not specified) | Saturday, November 29th |
| Venue | Ball Arena, Denver | Ball Arena, Denver |
| Attendance | Nearly 18,000 fans | High attendance expected |
| Significance | In-state rivalry, Gold Pan Trophy | U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game, National powerhouses |
| Outcome (2023) | DU won 2-0 | TBD (DU seeks revenge for 2004 loss) |
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game?
The game is scheduled for Saturday, November 29th. - Where will the game be played?
The University of Denver Pioneers will host the game at Ball Arena in Denver. - Which teams are playing?
The University of Denver Pioneers will face off against the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers. - Why is this game important for DU?
It’s the first time DU has hosted the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game in over a decade, showcasing the strength of their program and fan base on an NHL stage, and offering a chance for redemption against Minnesota. - How many national championships do the teams have?
The two programs combined boast an impressive 15 national championships.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to support the Pioneers and witness top-tier college hockey right here in Denver, a true testament to our city’s passion for the sport.
Denver Pioneers Host Hall of Fame Hockey Game
