Easton Hockey has agreed to a five-year strategic alliance with the University of Minnesota Men’s and Women’s Ice Hockey programs. Under the partnership, Easton will serve as the official glove, stick, pant, and on-ice apparel supplier for the Golden Gophers’ ice hockey programs through the 2010 season.

A perennial contender, the University of Minnesota has become one of the nation’s most dominant ice hockey programs and will make an ideal partner with Easton’s industry leading equipment and apparel, according to Ned Goldsmith, vice president of Easton Hockey.

“We are thrilled to join forces with Minnesota’s illustrious hockey programs as they are a powerhouse in college hockey and continue to produce superior talent year in and year out,” said Goldsmith. “The Gopher hockey programs are dedicated to the continuous pursuit of excellence and we’re excited that Easton equipment will better help them to achieve their goals.”

The University of Minnesota men’s ice hockey program has recorded five NCAA championships, including appearances at the Frozen Four in three of the last four seasons (19 total), and a record 29 NCAA tournament appearances. Additionally, the women’s program has won the last two NCAA national championships and currently boasts three Olympians on its squad. The team has qualified for the NCAA tournament in seven of the eight years the women’s ice hockey program has been in existence.

“This strategic alliance between the University of Minnesota and Easton Hockey is a positive step for both organizations,” said Joel Maturi, University of Minnesota director of athletics. “Easton’s quality products will undeniably assist both Gopher hockey programs to achieve success in their upcoming seasons and will allow the opportunity for better performances by our student athletes. We are looking forward to a strong and thriving partnership.”

In keeping with company policy, specific terms of the deal were not released.