Warroad and Roseau Hockey Rivalry Runs Deep

The two Minnesota towns have a long history of fierce but respectful competition on the ice.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The 22-mile drive between the neighboring towns of Warroad and Roseau, Minnesota is often shrouded in darkness on winter nights. But at the end of that journey, hockey fans are drawn to the bright, loud arenas that serve as beacons for the fierce but respectful rivalry between the two high school hockey programs.

Why it matters

The Warroad-Roseau hockey rivalry is deeply rooted in the culture and identity of these two small Minnesota towns. The competition on the ice is intense, but it is also built on a foundation of mutual respect that has developed over decades of facing off against each other.

The details

The hockey programs in Warroad and Roseau have been fierce rivals for generations, with the two towns separated by just 22 miles. The games between the two schools are always highly anticipated events, drawing passionate crowds to cheer on their hometown teams in what is often a close and hard-fought contest.

  • The Warroad-Roseau hockey rivalry dates back decades.

The players

Warroad High School

A public high school located in Warroad, Minnesota that has a storied hockey program.

Roseau High School

A public high school located in Roseau, Minnesota that has also built a strong hockey tradition over the years.

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The takeaway

The Warroad-Roseau hockey rivalry is a testament to the power of sports to bring communities together, even as they compete fiercely against one another. The mutual respect and shared passion for the game have made this one of the most iconic rivalries in Minnesota high school hockey.