ST. PAUL, MN – APRIL 11: Denver celebrates a goal in overtime against the Boston University Terriers during the Division I men's ice hockey semifinals at Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul on April 11, 2024. – No. 16 Tristan Broz of the Pioneers. Minnesota. (Photo by: Tyler Schank/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)
ST. PAUL, Minn. (KDVR) — A thrilling moment after the University of Denver won in overtime in the Frozen Four sparked celebrations throughout the Xcel Energy Center.
When forward Tristan Bross scored the winning goal in overtime, the DU fight song, best known as “D-Rah/Fairest of Colleges,” was played triumphantly throughout the arena.
But it was the pep band from Edina High School in Minnesota that made the right noise after the game.
“I don't know if there's a better band in the state of Minnesota at the high school level that can join us,” said Josh Barro, vice president of athletics and Ritchie Center operations. “I couldn't stand not having bands in Denver.”
The Pioneers have not had an official pep band in decades. Before the coronavirus outbreak, DU alumni founded a group to perform at Magness Arena.
The collaboration with Berlo occurred two weeks ago during the NCHC Tournament in St. Paul. A few phone calls later, the Edina Hornets were the pep band replacing the University of Denver in the NCAA hockey tournament.
“They have the sheet music and are excited to do it,” Berlo said, also The Hornets' resume was solid.. This season, the Minnesota men's and women's hockey teams won state titles. “So I hope they bring us a little bit of karma.”
Will DU students one day play their instruments at a hockey game?
“I hope this will be a springboard for us as we continue our efforts (at DU) to revive the band,” Berlo said. “We are taking the time to do it the right way and make sure it is sustainable and has an academic component.”
