U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Museum Women’s Face-Off Classic at Yanmar Arena, Featuring Minnesota State University, Mankato and Bemidji State University

Two of Minnesota’s top college teams will square off in the annual U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Museum Women’s Face-Off Classic, Saturday, Jan. 31, 4 p.m. CST, at the Yanmar Arena in Grand Rapids, Minn.

Eighteenth ranked Minnesota State University (6-5-1) will take on Bemidji State University (3-6-1) in the annual benefit game, which raises awareness for the museum located in Eveleth, Minn. The game also showcases NCAA Division I women’s college hockey to the fans, including young girls, who may aspire to play hockey.

“We are excited to continue the tradition of having two WCHA teams in the Women’s Hall of Fame game,” said Michelle McAteer, commissioner of the Western Collegiate Hockey Association. “This is a tremendous community event that help’s grow the game, and we are always eager to participate. I expect the Grand Rapids community fully embraces this event. It’s a hockey town, and excitement increases factoring in the homecoming of Mercury Bischoff who is a Grand Rapids product and now playing for Minnesota State. The Hall of Fame game is a great experience for the student-athletes and fans. Traditionally, the stands are packed with youth teams and it’s a full circle moment for our players. They dreamed of playing in the WCHA as young girls and now they are the role models for the next generation.”

Doug Palazzari, executive director of The U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Museum said, “We are very excited to have this year’s women’s Hall of Fame game in Grand Rapids. We are thankful for Bemidji State University for hosting the game and expect a great matchup with Minnesota State. I’m sure the folks in the Northland will fill the building and witness women’s hockey at its best.”

The teams will battle for the Hall of Fame Game Trophy which will be presented to the winning team by Babbitt, Minn. native Buzz Schneider, a member of the 1980 Men’s Olympic Hockey Gold Medal winning team.

Select members of each college team will sign autographs after the conclusion of the game. 

Tickets can be purchased at  https://gofan.co/event/5371724?schoolId=MN16554 

Additional event details will be announced in coming weeks.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM

The U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Museum (www.ushockeyhall.com) opened in 1973 with the goal of preserving the rich history of ice hockey in the United States while recognizing the extraordinary contributions of select players, coaches, administrators, officials, and teams.