Duluth is hosting the WCHA Final Faceoff on March 7 and 8, and Commissioner Michelle McAteer says to expect the best women’s college hockey in the country.

“We’re extremely fortunate to have the best conference in the country. And that’s not debatable,” she said. “We’ve had … the last three national championships. We have five of our eight teams ranked in the top 15 in the nation.”

McAteer said it can be seen as a preview of the NCAA Tournament.

Duluth got the opportunity to host because of another event at Ridder Arena, where the Final Faceoff has typically been played.

“I played at UMD. I’m a proud former Bulldog, and coach in that program as well. So I was really excited to learn when I started this role in the fall that the tournament was returning to Duluth,” McAteer said.

They want to pack the arena with fans to create the best atmosphere possible.

“To be there in person really is the best way to see this game played by these players,” McAteer said. “I have great memories as a player being in the old DECC and playing in front of packed crowds. It still gives me goosebumps thinking about that, so we would love to see as many people there in person and cheering on your team or just cheering on amazing collegiate hockey.”

The semifinal games will be at 1 and 4:30 p.m. on Friday, March 7, and the championship at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 8.

Tickets and more information are online at wcha.com.