Another for the trophy case

BC went to Denver as the third most likely team to win the title. They faced Miami who spent all season as one of the top two teams in the nation. They face Wisconsin, who was the odds on favorite to win it all with their size, speed and defensive strength. But a funny thing happened on the way to the title, neither team could handle the speed of BC and everyone (including yours truly) underestimated the ability of the Eagles defense. For two games, the Eagles were the best team in the land and they now have their fourth national championship to show for it. In 16 years, Jerry York has taken what was a good program that was down on its luck and constructed a dominating force for a decade plus. 3 national titles, 7 national title games and 9 Frozen Fours since 1998. Congratulations Eagles - for 13 years you have been the most consistently successful team in college hockey.

On a personal note, my celebration is a bit muted this year. I think on some level the reduced enthusiasm by Mrs. Pike probably has something to do with it (she being understandably bothered by the semi-finals result). Not actually being in Detroit as I was in Albany and Denver in years past probably has something to do with it. But also, winning for the third time in such a short span has something to do with it too.

Each title is special. In 2001, that was the first title of a team I followed since the Celtics in 1986 (of which I didn't really care too much back then). In 2008, it was the first time I was able to share a BC title with Mrs. Pike and that made it special. In 2010, I was able to share the celebration experience with Old Man Pike as he was visiting for the day on Saturday. All the past titles by Boston teams (BC, Sox, Pats, Celtics) I was only able to share with him over the phone. But having him there with me when this one went final gives it a little something the last two didn't have.

I will savor this and hope for only limited defections from this Eagle team and hope they don't have the hangover that has plagued them and BU the last two seasons.

Go Eagles!!