Hockey rivalry goes to the next level on both sides of the Sault border

Practice this week for the Sault College Men’s Hockey Team was taken to another level, as the Cougars face off against cross-border rival Lake Superior State University this weekend.

The stakes are higher than usual, as Friday night's game is the kick-off to the first-ever Lou Lukenda Cup.

From here on out, the representatives of the twin Saults will square off five times per season, with the winner having their names engraved on the trophy.

Sault College Captain Jackson Jacques said the Cougars were victorious in three of four games against the Lakers last year, adding that his guys are looking forward to the added pressure.

"We want it pretty badly as a group here," Jacques said.

"We've been putting in the work and having some good practices, and we're eager to play these guys … and win (to put) Canada on top."

The idea for the series came from Cougar coach Tanner Burton and his staff.

Choosing to name it after someone who’s had a sizeable impact on both schools and communities was the right choice in his mind.

"The Lukenda family has been big supporters of sports in (both) Sault Ste. Maries" Burton said.

Practice this week for the Sault College Men’s Hockey Team was taken to another level, as the Cougars face off against cross-border rival Lake Superior State University this weekend. (Photo from video)

"They've … reached out and touched a lot of people in this community."

Paul Orazietti, Sault College’s athletic director, agreed.

"It recognizes the many contributions of Lou Lukenda in our community, and on both sides of the border," Orazietti said.

"Turning the rivalry into something more formal like the Lukenda Cup is incredible."

The pair agree the series will grow the rivalry and fan involvement in both Sault communities.

Burton said some might attend to root on their side of the border and end up a fan of both hockey clubs.

"Our team is a very fast-paced possession game," he said.

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"I know Steve Kaunisto runs a very good program for Lake State. So it's going to be fast hockey from both sides. It's going to be hard-hitting hockey from both sides. And it's going to be really enjoyable for fans to come out and watch and support."

The first two games Nov. 22-23 will be on the Canadian side, at the Northern Community Centre, with Games 3 and 4 being held Jan. 31 and Feb. 1 in Sault, Mich.

No matter the outcome, there will be a Game 5 (Feb. 5) at the home of the Sault College Cougars, where the Lou Lukenda Cup will be awarded.