Rensselaer was one of the first schools outside of the Ivy League to play varsity ice hockey, holding their first game during the 1901–02 season.

Both programs were forced to suspend operations over the next few years due to warm winters that prevented natural ice surfaces from being usable.

Unfortunately, just as the rivalry was beginning to grow, financial difficulties brought on by The Great Depression caused Rensselaer to suspend its program in 1931.

Union continued on in their rival's absence but they too were forced to suspend play after the outbreak of World War II.

Inconsistent weather conditions wreaked havoc with open-air rinks and it had become apparent that Union could need an enclosed arena if they were to continue playing hockey.

The completion of the Achilles Rink in 1975 gave the Dutchmen the home they had needed while Harkness set about rebuilding the program from scratch.

A dispute between Harkness and the college caused the coach to leave mid-way through his third season and set the program back by several years.