The St. Michael Albertville and Buffalo rivalry exists in all sports, some more than others. Athletes sometimes play this team harder, not even always for the game records, but occasionally just for their pride.
“When I played St. Michael in lacrosse it wasn’t so much that I cared if we won or lost because I don’t get too beat up over it, it is a lot just beating them because they are just so mean on the field. Beating them just feels good.” Sophomore Lily Hershley says about her experience playing the rivals.
The rivalry takes place in even the more calm sports. “Even with baseball being a more mellow sport there is definitely a lot more energy in the game. The preparation to play St. Michael is always just more intense than playing any other team.” Senior David Watermiller explains.
The boys baseball team defeated a top ranked St. Michael 6-5 in a thrilling game. St. Michael was ranked 13th in the state at the time and looking for another bid at state. “It’s nice to finally beat those guys, you can just tell they’re all cocky pricks,” stated David.
The boys and girls of the track and field team understand the frustration and rivalry that come with competing against St. Michael too. “It’s different with track and field, but it does start to get old seeing them win in just about everything” said Senior Jordan Thielman. Both the boys and girls track teams suffered losses to the St. Michael track team.
“It was hard losing to them last year with knowing a lot of the kids, so we were extra prepared for the game,” said Senior Kevin Kemp. It was a close game all the way through with a 6-6 tie at halftime. “We knew it was going to be a hard game but if we played well, we were going to win,” stated Kemp.
After the third the boys were down by three and needed some people to step up. Senior Brady Hartman came to the call by finishing the game with 4 goals. But it was Senior Gavin Welch scoring the game winning goal with just 2 minutes to play. “I was able to use my speed to beat him to the net, and then I had a good finish low on the goalie,” said Welch.
The Bison wrap up their season Friday with a game against Hutchinson. The boys have had a good season with only three losses, and hope to make a run in a tough section 8 for boys lacrosse.
