End of an Era in the Soo

Lake Superior is hosting a two-game series with Michigan this weekend in Sault Ste. Marie. That may not seem like a big deal, but it's actually the the first time in 10 years Lake Superior will have two home games against the Wolverines.

The reason for that is that Lake Superior entered into an 11 year contract to play one of their home games with either Michigan or Michigan State at Joe Louis Arena. The deal was signed while Lake Superior was one of the best teams in college hockey, and of course, soon after signing the contract, Lake Superior's program took a huge nose dive and for the majority of the contract, was one of the weakest teams in college hockey. It did have some benefit for the Lakers though. The money made from playing a home game in Detroit every year did help Lake Superior fund their Gem of the North project, which renovated their arena.

Meanwhile, people in Mankato were still complaining about Minnesota State hosting a game against Minnesota at the XCel Energy Center three years ago.