Get to know: Bemidji State women's hockey

In preparation for Hockey Day Minnesota 2019 presented by Wells Fargo, Wild.com will highlight each of the nine teams participating in this year's festivities Jan. 19 in Bemidji. Today, we take a look at the Bemidji High School boys hockey team.

The town

Located in northwest Minnesota sits Bemidji, the alleged birthplace of American folklore staple Paul Bunyan and host for Hockey Day Minnesota 2019. Bemidji was named from the Ojibwe word "bemijigamaag," which means "lake with crossing waters." This refers to the way the Mississippi River flows across Lake Bemidji.

The team

Taking the ice for the first time in 1998, the Beavers have made 15 WCHA Tournament appearances, compiling a 224-405-68 overall record. Currently, 5-8-1 Bemidji State is in fifth place in the WCHA with 16 points behind fourth-place Minnesota Duluth.
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The matchup

Bemidji State and Minnesota State have played 77 WCHA contests all-time, with the Beavers holding a 40-28-11 edge heading into Hockey Day. The first of three consecutive games between the Beavers and the Mavericks is set for 1 p.m. on Hockey Day Minnesota 2019. Both teams are even across the stat sheet,; Bemidji State averages 1.87 goals per game compared to Minnesota State's average of 1.77 goals per game. The afternoon contest should be a close one that sets the tone for the following weekend in Mankato.

Players to watch

Sophomore forward Clair DeGeorge leads the Beavers with 15 points (seven goals, eight assists), while senior forward Emily Bergland has 11 points (four goals, seven assists) this season. Goaltender Lauren Bench has appeared in 12 games for the Beavers, posting a .911 save percentage and a 2.26 goals-against average.
Related:
- Get to know: Minnesota State women's hockey - How to watch, live stream Hockey Day 2019