U of C and MRU to battle at the ‘dome
Crowchild Classic goes down on Feb. 7
Bobby Jones
Contributor
There is a new rivalry in town, and it is not between feuding oil companies or City Council.
It is actually all about sport.
Coined the Crowchild Classic due to the two school’s proximity to one of Calgary’s asphalt arteries, Mount Royal University and the University of Calgary have already become legendary rivals after only one semester.
On Feb. 7, the next Classic will take place in Calgary’s largest hockey venue, the Scotiabank Saddledome. The Cougars and Dinos clash twice that Thursday night, starting with the women’s game at 5:00 p.m. and followed by the men at 7:45 p.m.
With Haley Wickenheiser, the Dinos women’s team has edged out the Cougars in two tight games and has dominated the CIS so far this year. The Cougars men’s team has split their two contests with the Dinos, and are looking to take the lead in the season series.
It’s not just pride that will be on the line that day, the victories would also be a step towards attaining athletic supremacy in Calgary. The winner of the 17 multisport games between the schools receives a coveted “medal,” a 60-pound manhole cover dangling from a chain, which was presented by Mayor Naheed Nenshi in 2012.
The Cougar Hockey teams will take on the U of C Dino’s at the Scotiabank Saddledome Feb. 7. Photo courtesy flickr.com/5of7
The Reflector spoke with defenseman Jessie Tresierra of the Cougar men’s team about the Classic:
The Reflector: How important is it to beat the Dinos at the Dome?
Jessie Tresierra: It’s very important to beat the Dinos at the Dome, it’s the first year of Classic and we love to start off by winning it.
TR: What does it mean to play at such a large venue, and on an NHL ice surface?
JT: We are all very excited about playing at the Saddledome, we are always pumped about big venues, and the large scoreboard and all the stands surrounding the ice is an experience in itself.
TR: Do you see this rivalry becoming as deep-rooted as the Flames and Oilers?
JT: Because it is the first year, it has been mild out there, but in the years to come I could see it becoming more and more heated.
All the build-up should lead to an exciting night. On Feb. 7, get out and enjoy some great hockey.
