Since 1995, only three teams -- Penn State, Ohio and Illinois -- have won the ACHA title. Rhode Island, this year's No. 1-ranked team, has made appearances in the final four in recent seasons but has yet to capture a crown. With these thoughts in mind, we take a look at the four perennial championship contenders with some help from their coaches.

No. 1 Rhode Island

Coach: Joe Augustine (17th season)

Regular Season Record: 32-2-3; vs. Top 4: 3-0-2

Most recent title: None

Augustine says: "We've been in this position before. We're not concerned about where we are seeded because we were seeded there last year."

Pick to win besides his team: "I don't think it would be surprising if anybody won it. It's probably as tight a race going into the tournament that I've seen anyway. You get a hot goaltender and play well at the right time, that's what the tournament is all about."

No. 2 Ohio

Coach: Dan Morris (fifth season)

Regular Season Record: 32-6-2; vs. Top 4: 5-2-1

Most recent title: 2004

Morris says: "A lot of coaches will tell you that this year there could be bigger upsets as far as seedings."

Pick to win besides his team: "Have to look at Rhode Island. They've had a great year, won some big games. All the pressure is on them."

No. 3 Penn State

Coach: Joe Battista (19th season)

Regular Season Record: 24-9-2; vs. Top 4: 3-6-1

Most recent title: 2003

Battista says: "I really believe there is more parity this year than ever before, so I wouldn't be surprised if a dark horse wins it."

Pick to win besides his team: "If I had to pick one team, I'd put my money on Ohio. I just think [Ryan] Baksh is an outstanding goalie. I guarantee you they are going to be hungry after losing the Central States playoffs [in finals to Illinois on Feb. 19]. They're going to be out for bear."

No. 4 Illinois

Coach: Chad Cassel (ninth season)

Regular Season Record: 29-5-1; vs. Top 4: 1-2-2

Most recent title: 2005

Cassel says: "[Our] goaltending has gotten better. Mike DeGeorge was struggling. As of late he has been playing well and playing consistent. ... Going to definitely be the deepest tournament so far. I don't think anybody is looking forward to their first-round matchups."

Pick to win besides his team: "I would go with Rhode Island. They have had some pretty impressive wins this year."

-- Compiled by Corey McLaughlin and Dan Winklebleck