Beanpot

Beanpot

The Beanpot is an annual ice hockey tournament held in Boston, Massachusetts. It features four of the top college hockey teams in the area: Boston College, Boston University, Harvard University, and Northeastern University. The tournament has a rich history and is considered one of the most prestigious college hockey events in the United States.

History

The Beanpot tournament was first held in 1952 and has been held every year since then. It was created as a way to showcase the talent of the local college hockey teams and to promote the sport in the Boston area. The tournament quickly gained popularity and has become a beloved tradition for both players and fans.

Format

The Beanpot follows a simple format. The four participating teams compete in two semifinal games, with the winners advancing to the championship game and the losers facing off in a consolation game. The tournament takes place over two consecutive Mondays in February, with the championship game being held on the second Monday.

Rivalries

The Beanpot tournament has given rise to intense rivalries among the participating teams. The most notable rivalry is between Boston College and Boston University, known as the "Battle of Commonwealth Avenue." This rivalry dates back to the early years of the tournament and has produced some of the most memorable moments in Beanpot history.

Another fierce rivalry is between Harvard University and Northeastern University. These two schools have a long-standing rivalry in various sports, and their matchups in the Beanpot are always highly anticipated.

Notable Moments

Over the years, the Beanpot tournament has seen many memorable moments. One of the most famous moments occurred in 1994 when Boston University's Chris Drury scored the game-winning goal in overtime to secure the championship for his team. This goal is often referred to as the "Miracle on Commonwealth Avenue."

In 2018, Northeastern University ended a 30-year championship drought by winning the Beanpot. The victory was a historic moment for the university and its hockey program.

Legacy

The Beanpot tournament has had a significant impact on college hockey in the Boston area. It has helped to elevate the profile of the sport and has produced numerous NHL players. Many players who have competed in the Beanpot have gone on to have successful professional careers.

The tournament also serves as a platform for young players to showcase their skills and potentially attract the attention of NHL scouts. The intense competition and high stakes of the Beanpot make it a thrilling event for both players and fans.

See Also

• Boston College
• Boston University
• Harvard University
• Northeastern University