It's not division 1, but it's pretty darn good hockey. In fact, after watching the Badgers struggle to score goals this season, I contend that the best collegiate hockey in Wisconsin right now is being played at the division 3 level. That's where the nationally 2nd ranked St. Norbert Green Knights toil.
Friday night, I watched the Knights improve to 9-0-1 with a convincing 9-3 win over UW-Stevens Point in the Northern Collegiate Hockey Association (NCHA). Eight different St. Norbert players scored for the Knights.
The Knights play a fast, physical brand of hockey. Their power play clicks at about 30%. They kill penalties at about 92%. And they're coached by one of the best coaches (Tim Coghlin) in the country. Tim Coghlin is in his 14th season at St. Norbert College and has posted a career record of 279-87-30.
The Knights aren't always challenged by great teams. The best battles in the NCHA come from another league power, Superior, and River Falls which puts an outstanding team on the ice every season. After that, the league is reletively inconsistent. But the St. Norbert program is as good as they come and if you're a true hockey fan, looking to watch a great team, check out the Knights. They're a well oiled machine that will make you glad to took the time to watch.