GRAND FORKS, N.D. – The most prolific rivalry in college hockey returns during the 2016-17 season as the University of North Dakota and the University of Minnesota have agreed to terms on a two-year deal that will renew a rivalry dating back to 1930.

The Gophers will host North Dakota for a two-game series in 2016-17 at Mariucci Arena and then travel to Grand Forks for a road series in 2017-18. Dates for both series will be determined at a later time.

“This is a rivalry that our fans, alumni and team look forward to renewing,” said UND head coach Dave Hakstol . “It is one of the most heated in all of college sports.”

The two programs battled each year from 1948 to 2013 before conference realignment put the rivalry on a three-year hiatus. The most recent meeting between the two rivals was a 4-4 overtime tie on Jan. 19, 2013 at Mariucci Arena.

“We're thrilled to officially get North Dakota back on our schedule and to renew one of the greatest rivalries in our sport,” Minnesota head coach Don Lucia said. “This rivalry is great for our programs, great for college hockey and great for our fans, and we're excited to bring North Dakota back to Mariucci Arena.

Two of the most decorated programs in college hockey, North Dakota and Minnesota have combined for 12 national championships, 39 NCAA Frozen Four appearances, and six Hobey Baker Award winners. North Dakota is currently in its first season with the National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC) while the Gophers are in their first season of competition in the Big Ten Conference.