Ruggiero and Botterill have since faced off against one another at the World Championships last March in Finland and the Under-22 World Championships at Lake Placid this summer.

The Harvard teammates do not talk much with each other about their international play, opting to leave everything on the ice.

"A couple of times we would go into the corner and I would realize that it was Rugger on the other side, but most of the time you just play your game and have a good time," Botterill said.

After the tournament, the two get back to life at Harvard.

"We might talk about Worlds for a while, but we do not really talk about the medals because it's a small division between us, and we have a respect for each other's country." Ruggiero said.

Nonetheless, the two have come to Harvard with a similar, extensive international experience that is bound to contribute to Harvard's 1999-2000 season.

With Mleczko gone, Ruggiero and Botterill look to step into a leadership role this season as Harvard attempts to repeat as national champions.

"Rugger" and "Bots" Go to Harvard