Blake and Providence Academy have a chance to make history this season.
For the first time in the Independent Metro Athletic Conference’s four-year history, a team other than Breck will claim the league title. The Mustangs’ reign as conference champions, however, stretches back into the Tri-Metro era, when Breck earned at least a share of the title every year since 2007.
But this season, it's Blake and Providence Academy battling for the crown and both enter the week unbeaten in conference play. This matchup is the first of two in the next two weeks for the teams, and the winner can clinch a share of the league crown with a win on Tuesday.
The Bears (12-5-1, 6-0) had lost or tied in its previous overtime games this season, but they found their mettle in the clutch to finish off New Prague 3-2 in overtime on Jan. 23. Freshman Tristan Broz (15-18-33) netted the game-winner to stamp a spectacular debut season as Blake’s leading scorer.
After years of struggles, the Lions (12-5-2, 5-0) have cracked the Class 1A rankings, landing at No. 20 in the latest poll. Providence Academy's offense has been impressive lately, averaging 6.3 goals per game while the team has won seven of its past eight contests. Brothers Jacob (16-17-33) and Zach Giesler (17-13-30) have led the Lions to their first winning season in five years.