Four teams will meet at the Herb Brooks Arena in Lake Placid, N.Y., for the Division III Frozen Four this weekend. On one side of the bracket there will be two returning Frozen Four participants in Norwich and Oswego. In the other, there are newcomers Utica and Wisconsin-Eau Claire.
Friday, March 15
Norwich vs. Oswego State
Both teams are back for their fourth consecutive appearance in the Frozen Four. Last year, Norwich fell to St. Norbert in the semifinals, while Oswego took a loss to the same team in the championship game. Oswego is 24-4-0 overall, while Norwich holds a 24-3-1 record. I saw Oswego play last week, and they are a big, experienced team that had hunger in their eyes. Oswego 2-1
Wisconsin-Eau Claire vs. Utica
The Blugolds and Pioneers are both new to the Frozen Four and eager to earn their way to the championship round. Wisconsin-Eau Claire holds a 22-5-2 overall record, while Utica went 21-5-1 through the season. The Blugolds are the only team that had to battle through the first round and quarterfinals before reaching the semifinal game. They have had a long road, and are determined to make the last stride. Wisconsin-Eau Claire 2-1
Saturday, March 16
Oswego State vs. Wisconsin-Eau Claire
In championship games, anything can happen. If these two teams end up battling it out it in the final game of the season, it will be an interesting match-up. On one end of the ice, there is an Oswego State squad which has plenty of experience in the arena, and on the other an inexperienced team with the Blugolds taking the long road to the tournament. Oswego 3-2
