High School Hockey Preview 2022 - 2023

HIGH SCHOOL HOCKEY PREVIEW

Kade Kohanski, Hermantown

Clint Austin / Duluth News Tribune

Hawks ready to reload

BY JAMEY MALCOMB Duluth News Tribune

HERMANTOWN —

When Hermantown smashed its way through the state tournament last year, the scoresheets were littered with familiar names: Zam Plante, Ty Hanson, Max Plante and Beau Janzig, to name a few.

This season, the Hawks’ top line will look very different after each of those four players left the program, representing more than 200 points of offensive production coach Pat Andrews will have to figure out how to replace.

If you add in the departure of second-line forwards Dominic Thomas and Gavin Blomdahl, the number swells to well more than half the total points Hermantown scored in 2021-22. Zam Plante and Hanson are spending the season in the United States Hockey League and Max Plante — Hermantown’s point leader with 72 — left for USA Hockey’s National Development Team

Program.

Janzig, Thomas and Blomdahl all graduated and Janzig is spending this season with the North American Hockey League’s Minnesota Wilderness in Cloquet.

“Obviously, everyone looks at what you lost, you lose X amount of points, X amount of ice time,” Andrews said. “You lose three-fifths of your power play, you lose 85% of your scoring, and that’s part of it, but what you’re really losing there is they’re just tremendous human beings. Beau was an unbelievable captain for us and, obviously, Zam, Ty and Max are phenomenal players, but they’re great human beings that compete so hard and they bring that level up. That’s what you’re losing and you don’t replace that.”

Certainly you don’t replace a group of six players that include three Minnesota Duluth recruits — one of whom was a fifth round draft pick of the Pittsburgh

Penguins — but this is Hermantown.

The cupboard is not bare.

Much like college football titans Georgia and Ohio State, Hermantown’s rebuild more closely resembles a reload.

The Hawks season will depend on their senior captains: Kade Kohanski, Wyatt Carlson and George Peterson. In addition, Dallas Vieau, a junior Penn State recruit, will be part of the Hawks attack as well.

Kohanski is the only player from the top line to return, but he was a significant contributor last season. His 22 goals trailed only Zam Plante and his 62 total points was good enough for third on the team.

“He was not a third wheel on that line — Kade Kohanski made that line go,” Andrews said. “I think what people will see if how darn good Kade is in his own right, because he is going to make that top line go this year.”

HAWKS: Page 6

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Jed Carlson / Superior Telegram

Hermantown hockey captains, from left, Wyatt Carlson, George Peterson and Kade Kohanski pose for a photograph before taking the ice for captains practice at the Hermantown Arena on Nov. 7.

FIVE PLAYERS TO WATCH

BY JAMEY MALCOMB Duluth News Tribune

GEORGE PETERSON

Hermantown

Senior defenseman

MYLES GUNDERSON

Grand Rapids Senior goaltender

Gunderson is among the top returning goalies in the state after recording a 2.19 goals against average and .899 save percentage with four shutouts for the Thunderhawks last season. Goaltending and defense will again be a strength for Grand Rapids, according to coach Wade Chiodo, for a team that pushed defending Class AA champion Andover to the limit in the section title game. Gunderson’s play will be key as the Thunderhawks try to replace the offensive production of departed players like Joey DelGreco, Hayden DeMars and Kaden Nelson.

COLE CHRISTIAN ANDY LARSON

Duluth East Senior forward

Christian is the leading returning scorer for a revamped Greyhound squad, with 14 goals and 30 points last season. Duluth East struggled to just eight wins in 2021-22, but coach Steve Pitoscia believes the team will be much-improved this season. As always, Duluth East faces a brutal Section 7AA schedule that gives it few nights off. If they are to improve significantly on last season’s win total, Christian will be at the center of the Greyhounds’ resurgence.

Duluth Denfeld

Senior forward

Larson will lead the Hunters’ top line and was second on the team last season with 53 total points. A 2022 All-Area team member, Larson has great hockey sense and awareness across zones and is “just on the verge of becoming something really special,” according to Denfeld coach Dale Jago. If the Hunters are to advance to a fourthstraight section final, Larson will be a big part of the campaign.

Peterson, a senior captain for the Hawks, will be stepping into a top line that returns just one player from the state championship squad. Peterson finished the season with 10 goals and 12 assists, but Hermantown will need him to lead a defense that lost Beau Janzig and Ty Hanson. Coach Pat Andrews called him a “phenomenal defenseman” who will be important to the Hawks as they work to get back to the state tournament after arguably losing more talent than any team in the state.

KADE KOHANSKI

Hermantown Senior forward

Kohanski is perhaps the most experienced player returning to the Hawks’ bench this season.The senior forward was Hermantown’s secondleading goal scorer with 22 and is the only player from the Hawks’ top line to return this season. “People will see how darn good Kade is in his own right, because he is going to make the top line go this year,” Hawks’ coach Pat Andrews said.

CEC’s Karson Young possesses the puck during a Jan. 6 game against Brainerd at Northwoods Credit Union Arena in Cloquet. Duluth News Tribune / File

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Cloquet-Esko-Carlton Lumberjacks

Head coach: Shea Walters, sixth season

Key departures: G Kyle Abrahmson (3.96 GAA, .875 save percentage); G Jacob Walsh (4.63 GAA, .870 save percentage); F Wyatt Mrozik (4-3—7); D Carter Salo (2-5—7); F Aaron Ermatinger (4-3—7)

CLOQUET-ESKO-CARLTON

Returning starters: Sr. F Patrick Dunaiski (13-9—22); Sr. F Dayne Painovich (9-7—16); Sr. D Lucas Rauner (1-13—14); Sr. F Noah Knutson (3-10—13); Fr. D Karson Young (3-10—13); Jr. F Jace Stewart (4-6—10); Jr. F Joey Antonutti (9-5—14); Jr. D Gino Bertogliat (0-2—2)

2022-23 SCHEDULE (home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 29 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, 7 p.m.

Dec. 3 — BLOOMINGTON JEFFERSON, 3 p.m.

Dec. 8 — DULUTH DENFELD, 7 p.m.

Dec. 13 — at Proctor, 7 p.m.

Dec. 15 — DULUTH EAST, 7 p.m.

Dec. 20 — GRAND RAPIDS, 7 p.m.

Dec. 22 — MOUNDS VIEW, 7 p.m.

Dec. 27 — at Heritage Classic, TBD

Dec. 28 — at Heritage Classic, TBD

Dec. 29 — at Heritage Classic, TBD

Jan. 3 — at Stillwater, 7 p.m.

Jan. 6 — at Brainerd, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 12 — DULUTH MARSHALL, 7 p.m.

Jan. 14 — at Coon Rapids, 7 p.m.

Jan. 17 — at Grand Rapids, 7 p.m.

Jan. 20 — HOLY ANGELS, 7 p.m.

Jan. 24 — at Rock Ridge, 7 p.m.

Jan. 27 — BEMIDJI, 7 p.m.

Jan. 31 — FOREST LAKE, 7 p.m.

Feb. 2 — at Hermantown, 7 p.m.

Feb. 4 — CHAMPLIN PARK, 3 p.m.

Feb. 6 — at Duluth East, 7 p.m.

Feb. 9 — at Superior, 7 p.m.

Feb. 11 — at Elk River/Zimmerman, 3 p.m.

Feb. 14 — NORTHERN EDGE, 7 p.m.

Outlook: The Lumberjacks were young and inexperienced last season, graduating just three skaters off the 2021-22 squad, but this season looks much more promising.

CEC returns its top seven scorers from last season and, even better, the Lumberjacks will be adding a group from a state tournament Bantam team that will “help fill some roles,” according to coach Shea Walters.

“Partnering with a hardworking junior and senior group, we should have a lot more depth,” Walters said. “We had a great off season where everyone bought in and worked hard. We are looking to use that to jumpstart our season.”

Joining the Lumberjacks this season will be Niko Gentilini, Bobby Thornton, Cole Painovich, Leo Luense, Brudy Dushkin, Grady Knutson and Hudson Snesrud.

The Lumberjacks will need to improve their scoring after averaging just more than two goals per game last year.

“We are going to need to get scoring from all over,” Walters said. “We will need to rely on several guys to score — not just one individual player.”

- Jamey Malcomb, News Tribune

2021-22 RESULTS RECORD: 8-17-2

Nov. 26 — Andover, L, 4-0

Nov. 27 — at Minnetonka, L, 5-1

Nov. 30 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, W, 4-3

Dec. 4 — at Bloomington Jefferson, W, 2-0

Dec. 9 — at Duluth Denfeld, L, 6-2

Dec. 14 — PROCTOR, W, 4-2

Dec. 18 — at Champlin Park, L, 3-1

Dec. 21 — at Grand Rapids, L, 6-0

Dec. 23 — at Holy Angels, T, 3-3

Dec. 28 — BLAKE, L, 6-2

Dec. 29 — Centennial, L, 8-0

Dec. 30 — Hill-Murray, L, 6-2

Jan. 6 — BRAINERD, W, 3-2

Jan. 7 — STILLWATER, L, 6-1

Jan. 15 — ELK RIVER/ZIMMERMAN, L, 8-1

Jan. 18 — GRAND RAPIDS, L, 10-1

Jan. 20 — at Duluth Marshall, W, 4-2

Jan. 24 — at Duluth East, L, 4-1

Jan. 25 — ROCK RIDGE, W, 3-0

Jan. 28 — at Bemidji, T, 3-3

Jan. 31 — at Forest Lake, L, 4-3

Feb. 3 — HERMANTOWN, L, 8-0

Feb. 7 — DULUTH EAST, L, 4-3

Feb. 10 — SUPERIOR, W, 5-2

Feb. 12 — HOLY FAMILY, L, 4-3

Feb. 19 — DULUTH MARSHALL, W, 3-2

Feb. 23 — at Andover, L, 7-0

Best wishes for ahealthy, winning season,CECboys&girlshockey!

HAWKS

From Page 3

Carlson spent nearly a month last season on the top line when Zam Plante was sidelined with a shoulder injury. He made the most of the opportunities he had last season with 18 goals and 12 assists.

He knows it will be a challenge without Janzig, Hanson or Zam Plante, but those players faced a similar task last season.

“Obviously, we lost a bunch of top end guys, but we’re going to have new guys coming in that have to fill roles,” Carlson said. “A bunch of the new people that are coming in this year, they’re going to have to step up a lot. It was the same with the returners last year, they had to step into roles they hadn’t come through yet and overcome all the adversity we had.”

While Andrews was unable to work with the team until Nov. 14

because of state rules, Kohanski, Carlson and Peterson were running captains’ practices to help get everyone ready for the new season.

“At these captains’ practices, we’re just trying to pick up the tempo and try to get to game speed,” Peterson said. “We want to create that chemistry because we’ve got a lot a question marks and a lot of new players that are going to be stepping up to play big roles.”

Andrews knows the team will be very different from last season and Hermantown has talent, but will take time for the team to round into shape.

“I think we’ll be incredibly strong defensively and not give much up and then be opportunistic offensively and find our way as we go,” Andrews said.

“Hopefully by Christmas we know what we have. It’s a little different team — I think we’re going to be good, it’s just a matter of when.”

GO DENFELD HUNTERS

Duluth Denfeld Hunters

Head coach: Dale Jago, eighth season

Key departures: F Connor McClure (26-31—57); F Cooper McClure (25-20—45); F Simon Davidson (14-26—40) D John Bloomquist (1-14—15); G Austin Wick (3.31 GAA, .876 save percentage)

Key returners: Sr. F Andy Larson (23-30—53); Sr. F Kaden Postal (14-19—33); Sr. D Brady McGinn (3-12—15); Jr. D Braeden Erickson (1-4—5); Sr. D Nick McGillivray (1-2—3); Jr. G Connor Doyle (3.69 GAA, .891 save percentage); Sr. G Martin Hoffman (4.74 GAA, .825)

Outlook: The Hunters advanced to their third consecutive Section 7A title game before bowing out against eventual state champion Hermantown.

To make it four in a row Denfeld will have to replace three of its top four scorers in Connor

2021-22 DULUTH DENFELD RESULTS

Nov. 26 — at Woodbury, W, 7-6

Nov. 27 — Champlin Park, L, 6-1

Dec. 3 — at Gentry Academy, L, 9-2

Dec. 4 — at East Ridge, W, 5-2

Dec. 7 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, W, 5-0

Dec. 9 — CLOQUET-ESKO-CARLTON, W, 6-2

Dec. 14 — at Rock Ridge, W, 6-2

Dec. 18 — PROCTOR, W, 6-2

McClure, Cooper McClure and Simon Davidson as well as goaltender Austin Wick.

The Hunters do return senior Andy Larson and his 53 points as well as forward Kaden Postal, who scored 14 goals in 2021-22.

“Andy Larson, Kaden Postal and Nick McGillivray are going to be leaders and what’s going to make us go is how quick our young guys adapt,” coach Dale Jago said.

The biggest challenge for the Hunters is their youth and playing in one of the toughest sections in the state.

“We’re going to be young and we’re not as deep as we have been the last three years,” Jago said. “There’s going to have to be some kids that step up into different roles and play systematic hockey. We’re not going to be able to rely as much on talent as we have the last three years.”

- Jamey Malcomb, News Tribune

Dec. 28 — SPRING LAKE PARK, W, 7-1

Dec. 29 — OWATONNA, W, 7-0

Dec. 30 — ANOKA, W, 8-0

Jan. 4 — at Hermantown, L, 6-1

Jan. 6 — at Superior, W, 3-2

Jan. 7 — NORTH SHORE, W, 10-0

Jan. 13 — GRAND RAPIDS, L, 8-1

Jan. 14 — DODGE COUNTY, W, 7-0

Jan. 21 — at Warroad, L, 9-1

Jan. 25 — at International Falls, W, 7-2

DULUTH DENFELD

2022-23 SCHEDULE

(home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 26 — INTERNATIONAL FALLS, 3 p.m.

Dec. 2 — MINNEAPOLIS, 7 p.m.

Dec. 6 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, 7 p.m.

Dec. 8 — at Cloquet-Esko-Carlton, 7 p.m.

Dec. 10 — SUPERIOR, 6:15 p.m.

Dec. 13 — ROCK RIDGE, 7 p.m.

Dec. 15 — at Superior, 7 p.m.

Dec. 20 — HERMANTOWN, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 22 — at Grand Rapids, 7 p.m.

Dec. 27 — HERITAGE CLASSIC, TBD

Dec. 28 — HERITAGE CLASSIC, TBD

Dec. 29 — HERITAGE CLASSIC, TBD

Jan. 5 — at Proctor, 7 p.m.

Jan. 6 — at North Shore (TH), 7 p.m.

Jan. 13 — at Little Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 14 — NORTHERN LAKES, 2 p.m.

Jan. 17 — at Duluth East, 7 p.m.

Jan. 20 — EAST GRAND FORKS, 7 p.m.

Jan. 21 — WARROAD, 4 p.m.

Jan. 26 — at Rock Ridge (ITMEC), 7 p.m.

Jan. 27 — DODGE COUNTY, 7 p.m.

Jan. 31 — GREENWAY, 7 p.m.

Feb. 3 — at Sartell-St. Stephen, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 4 — at Alexandria, 1:30 p.m.

Feb. 9 — at Duluth Marshall, 7 p.m.

Jan. 27 — ROCK RIDGE, L, 6-2

Jan. 28 — GENTRY ACADEMY, L, 5-3

Jan. 31 — at Greenway, W, 4-0

Feb. 4 — SARTELL-ST. STEPHEN, W, 4-3

Feb. 5 — ALEXANDRIA, L, 6-4

Feb. 9 — DULUTH EAST, W, 6-2

Feb. 10 — DULUTH MARSHALL, W, 3-2

Feb. 23 — INTERNATIONAL FALLS, W, 9-2

Feb. 25 — Hibbing/Chisholm, W, 3-0

March 2 — Hermantown, L, 11-0

Jed Carlson / Superior Telegram Members of the Hermantown Hawks hockey team wait along the boards of the Hermantown Hockey Arena during captains practice Monday, Nov. 7.

Clint Austin / Duluth News Tribune / File Andy Larson (16) of Denfeld skates with the puck in a 2022 matchup against Hibbing/Chisholm. Larson is the top returning scorer for the Hunters.

Cole Christian (5) of Duluth East and Ren Morque (15) of Grand Rapids chase the puck on Nov. 30, 2021, at the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center in Duluth.

Clint Austin / Duluth News Tribune / File

DULUTH EAST 2022-23 SCHEDULE

(home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 25 — WHITE BEAR LAKE, 7 p.m.

Nov. 26 — at St. Thomas Academy, 3 p.m.

Nov. 29 — at Grand Rapids, 7 p.m.

Dec. 1 — at Bemidji, 7 p.m.

Dec. 3 — WAYZATA, 2:30 p.m.

Dec. 6 — at Forest Lake, 7 p.m.

Dec. 9 — COON RAPIDS, 7 p.m.

Dec. 10 — EDEN PRAIRIE, 7 p.m.

Dec. 13 — CENTENNIAL, 5 p.m.

Dec. 15 — at Cloquet-Esko-Carlton, 7 p.m.

Dec. 20 — ANDOVER, 7 p.m.

2021-22 DULUTH EAST RESULTS

RECORD: 8-18-1

Nov. 26 — at White Bear Lake, L, 6-3

Nov. 27 — at Chaska, L, 3-1

Nov. 30 — GRAND RAPIDS, L, 4-3

Dec. 2 — BEMIDJI, L, 4-3

Dec. 4 — at Wayzata, L, 6-0

Dec. 7 — FOREST LAKE, L, 5-3

Dec. 11 — EDEN PRAIRIE, L, 4-3

Dec. 21 — at Andover, L, 8-0

Dec. 23 — at Brainerd, W, 6-1

Dec. 31 — at Blaine, T, 4-4

Jan. 4 — at Rock Ridge, W, 5-3

Jan. 6 — at Grand Rapids, L, 6-2

Dec. 22 — at Duluth Marshall, 7 p.m.

Dec. 30 — BLAINE, 3 p.m.

Jan. 6 — GRAND RAPIDS, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 7 — at Stillwater, 6 p.m.

Jan. 12 — BRAINERD, 5 p.m.

Jan. 14 — at Minnetonka, 3:15 p.m.

Jan. 17 — DULUTH DENFELD, 7 p.m.

Jan. 26 — at Hopkins, 7 p.m.

Jan. 28 — at Mounds View, 7 p.m.

Feb. 1 — SUPERIOR, 7 p.m.

Feb. 3 — CHAMPLIN PARK, 7 p.m.

Feb. 6 — CLOQUET-ESKO-CARLTON, 7 p.m.

Feb. 11 — ROGERS, 2 p.m.

Feb. 14 — at St. Cloud, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 8 — STILLWATER, L, 5-0

Jan. 22 — MOORHEAD, L, 3-2

Jan. 24 — CLOQUET-ESKO-CARLTON, W, 4-1

Jan. 26 — at Centennial, L 3-2

Jan. 29 — MOUNDS VIEW, W, 6-3

Jan. 31 — MINNETONKA, L, 4-0

Feb. 2 — at Superior, W, 5-2

Feb. 5 — at Elk River/Zimmerman, L, 3-1

Feb. 7 — at Cloquet-Esko-Carlton, W, 4-3

Feb. 9 — at Duluth Denfeld, L, 6-2

Feb. 10 — at Champlin Park, L, 8-3

Feb. 12 — ST. CLOUD, W, 3-1

Feb. 19 — NORTHERN EDGE, W, 3-0

Feb. 23 — at Grand Rapids, L, 6-1

Duluth East Greyhounds

Head coach: Steve Pitoscia, second season

Key Departures: G Zander Ziemski (3.82 GAA, .880 save percentage); F Lars Berg (5-8—13); D Tyler Smith (1-2—3)

Key returners: Sr. D Grant Winkler (4-8—12); Sr. D Henry Murray (5-6—11); Sr. F Cole Christian (14-16—30); Jr. F Thomas Gunderson (2-3—5); Jr. F Noah Teng (11-7—18); Sr. F Wyatt Peterson (4-2—6)

Outlook: The Greyhounds dropped their first eight games of the season in 2021-22 and struggled to just eight wins total in coach Steve Pitoscia’s first season on the bench.

Those eight wins were an improvement on the six from 2020-21, but Pitoscia believes there is reason to think it will be a bigger improvement this season.

East returns its top two goal scorers from last season in senior Cole Christian and junior Noah Teng. The Greyhounds will add to their depth with forwards Caden Cole and Ian Christian and defenseman Christian Cochran.

Goaltending is a question for East after the

departure of Zander Ziemski, but Kole Kronstadt and Drew Rauker will compete for the job, with Pitoscia saying the Greyhounds will go with whoever has “the hot hand.”

The biggest challenge for the Greyhounds this season is the same as it always is, a loaded Section 7AA. Andover won the state championship last season and Grand Rapids pushed the Huskies to the limit in the section title game at Amsoil Arena.

“Andover is going to be the class of the section, and certainly all the other teams in Section 7AA will always play us tough too,” Pitoscia said. “We don’t get a night off ever, but I think we’ll be considerably

better than we were last year.”

- Jamey Malcomb, News Tribune

CHAMPIONS IN THE CLASSROOM AND LEADERS ON THE RINK!

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Duluth Marshall Hilltoppers

Head coach: Shawn Bartlette, first season

Key departures: F Sam Aamodt (12-11—23); F Tucker D’Allaird (8-6—14); G Sam Anderson (3.42 GAA, .899 save percentage)

GOODLUCK HILLTOPPERS!

Key returners: Sr. F Brendan Friday (9-17— 26); Sr. F Pierce Gouin (6-8—14); Sr. D Luke Schottenbauer (6-5—11); Sr. F Kai Melton; Jr. G Sam Pollard (5.46 GAA, .827

save percentage)

Outlook: The Hilltoppers managed just seven wins last season, but they will have a “strong group of newcomers” to go with the senior leadership of captains Pierce Gouin, Brendan Friday and Luke Schottenbauer, according to first-year coach Shawn Bartlette.

Friday was second on the team in goals with nine and had 17 assists to lead the Hilltoppers in total points.

DULUTH

Nov. 25 — at East Ridge, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 1 — at Grand Rapids, 7 p.m.

Dec. 3 — BRECK, 3 p.m.

Dec. 6 — SUPERIOR, 7 p.m.

Dec. 8 — MORA/MILACA, 7 p.m.

Dec. 10 — at St. Cloud Cathedral, 2 p.m.

Dec. 13 — HERMANTOWN, 7 p.m.

Dec. 15 — PROCTOR, 7 p.m.

Dec. 17 — at Providence Academy, 3 p.m.

2021-22 DULUTH MARSHALL RESULTS

RECORD: 7-18-1

Nov. 26 — EAST RIDGE, T, 2-2

Nov. 29 — at Proctor, L, 1-0

Dec. 2 — GRAND RAPIDS, L, 12-0

Dec. 7 — at Superior, L, 6-2

Dec. 9 — at Mora/Milaca, W, 6-3

Dec. 11 — ST. CLOUD CATHEDRAL, L, 6-3

Dec. 14 — at Hermantown, L, 6-0

Dec. 21 — at Chisago Lakes, L, 6-3

Dec. 28 — RED LAKE FALLS, W, 7-1

Dec. 29 — UNIVERSITY MILWAUKEE, L, 2-0

Dec. 30 — MORA/MILACA, L, 4-0

Jan. 4 — PRINCETON, W, 4-3

“The strength of our team will be our senior leadership,” Bartlett said. “Our seniors have developed into excellent leaders who led the team through coaching transitions and continue to be excellent students and positive influences in the Marshall School and Duluth communities.”

Dec. 22 — DULUTH EAST, 7 p.m.

Dec. 29 — SOMERSET, 4 p.m.

Jan. 3 — at Princeton, 7 p.m.

Jan. 10 — at Northern Lakes, 7 p.m.

Jan. 12 — at Cloquet-Esko-Carlton, 7 p.m.

Jan. 21 — HOLY ANGELS, 3 p.m.

Jan. 23 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, 7 p.m.

Jan. 27 — at Bagley/Fosston, 4 p.m.

Jan. 30 — at North Shore (SB), 7 p.m.

Feb. 2 — at Eagan, 7 p.m.

Feb. 9 — DULUTH DENFELD, 7 p.m.

Feb. 14 — at Forest Lake, 7 p.m.

Jan. 8 — PROVIDENCE ACADEMY, L, 6-5

Jan. 13 — BAGLEY/FOSSTON, L, 4-1

Jan. 15 — DODGE COUNTY, L, 5-2

Jan. 17 — NORTH SHORE, W, 5-1

Jan. 20 — CLOQUET-ESKO-CARLTON, L, 4-2

Jan. 21 — at Bagley/Fosston, L, 3-2

Jan. 24 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, W, 3-0

Jan. 27 — at Ely, W, 5-1

Feb. 3 — GREENWAY, W, 4-3

Feb. 5 — at Gentry Academy, L, 9-0

Feb. 10 — at Duluth Denfeld, L, 3-2

Feb. 12 — at Holy Angels, L, 9-1

Feb. 15 — FOREST LAKE, L, 7-4

Feb. 19 — at Cloquet-Esko-Carlton, L, 3-2

Marshall’s schedule is among the toughest in the area, with traditional powers Grand Rapids, Hermantown and a potentially resurgent Duluth East team all looming for the Hilltoppers.

“We play a challenging schedule that contains some top area teams and

teams from around the state,” Bartlette said. “This is a great opportunity for our program to maintain some local rivalries and develop some new ones.” The Hilltoppers will learn how big the hill they need to climb is early on with a date at Grand Rapids on Dec. 1. - Jamey Malcomb, News Tribune

MARSHALL 2022-23 SCHEDULE (home games in ALL CAPS)

Head coach: Wade Chiodo, fourth season

Key departures: Sr. F Joey DelGreco (25-43—68); D Easton Young (1337—50); F Kaden Nelson (19-30—49); Garrett Drotts (23-25—48); D Ren Morque (8-26—34); F Hayden DeMars (15-18—33); F Henry Sterle (8-12—20)

Returning starters: Sr. G Myles Gunderson (2.19 GAA, .899 save percentage); Sr. D Will Stauffer (6-16— 22); Jr. D Bauer Murphy (3-11—14); Sr. F Kyle Henke (1-5—6); Sr. F Blayne Mortenson (5-10—15); Sr. F Hayden Davis (4-7—11); Jr.

Hayden Davis (21) of Grand Rapids shoots the puck against Duluth East on Nov. 30, 2021, at the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center in Duluth.

Clint Austin

/ Duluth News Tribune

Grand Rapids Thunderhawks

F Gus Drennen (1-4—5)

Outlook: The Thunderhawks were among the top Class AA teams in Minnesota 2021-22, but ran into eventual state champion Andover in the section championship game. Grand Rapids lost more than 300 points of offense this year, including Joey DelGreco, who scored at least one point in 26 of 28 games last season.

The Thunderhawks will be stout defensively with Myles Gunderson, Will Stauffer and Bauer Murphy all returning for coach Wade Chiodo. Gunderson, in

particular, is among the top returning goaltenders in the state.

“Our goaltending and our defense is a big strength of our team,” Chiodo said. “We’ve got a lot of opportunity up front for guys to gain a position or a role on the team. It’ll be fun to see how that unravels as we go through the tryouts and into the beginning of the season.”

Chiodo isn’t concerned about the lost offensive production as he is about getting all the new players up to speed before the season kicks off against

GRAND RAPIDS 2022-23 SCHEDULE

(home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 29 — DULUTH EAST, 7 p.m.

Dec. 1 — DULUTH MARSHALL, 7 p.m.

Dec. 3 — FOREST LAKE, 3 p.m.

Dec. 6 — at Proctor, 7 p.m.

Dec. 9 — ROSEAU, 7 p.m.

Dec. 10 — WARROAD, 2 p.m.

Dec. 15 — at Edina, 8 p.m.

Dec. 16 — Eden Prairie (@Edina), 6 p.m.

Dec. 17 — Elk River/Zimmerman (@Edina), 6 p.m.

Dec. 20 — at Cloquet-Esko-Carlton, 7 p.m.

Dec. 22 — DULUTH DENFELD, 7 p.m.

2021-22 GRAND RAPIDS RECORD: 20-7-1

Nov. 27 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, W, 11-0

Nov. 30 — at Duluth East, W, 4-3

Dec. 2 — at Duluth Marshall, W, 12-0

Dec. 4 — FOREST LAKE, W, 6-2

Dec. 7 — PROCTOR, W, 7-0

Dec. 10 — at Roseau, L, 4-3

Dec. 11 — at Warroad, L, 4-3

Dec. 16 — at Edina, L, 5-1

Dec. 17 — Eden Prairie, W, 4-3

Dec. 18 — Elk River/Zimmerman, W, 6-3

Dec. 21 — CLOQUET-ESKO-CARLTON, W, 6-0

Dec. 29 — at Minnetonka, W, 3-0

Jan. 6 — DULUTH EAST, W, 6-2

Jan. 11 — at Superior, W, 7-0

Duluth East Nov. 29.

“Our biggest challenge is going to be just getting everybody on the same page within our team,” Chiodo said. “We have some new faces and some folks are going to have some new roles on the team.

- Jamey Malcomb, News Tribune

Dec. 28 — MINNETONKA, 2 p.m.

Jan. 6 — at Duluth East, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 10 — SUPERIOR, 7 p.m.

Jan. 14 — at Moorhead, 6 p.m.

Jan. 17 — CLOQUET-ESKO-CARLTON, 7 p.m.

Jan. 20 — at White Bear Lake, 7 p.m.

Jan. 21 — at Hill-Murray, 2:15 p.m.

Jan. 24 — BRAINERD, 7 p.m.

Jan. 27 — at Maple Grove, 7 p.m.

Feb. 3 — at Andover, 7 p.m.

Feb. 4 — at Wayzata, 2:30 p.m.

Feb. 11 — BENILDE-ST. MARGARET’S, 2 p.m.

Feb. 14 — at Hermantown, 7 p.m.

Jan. 13 — at Duluth Denfeld, W, 8-1

Jan. 18 — at Cloquet-Esko-Carlton, W, 10-1

Jan. 21 — MOORHEAD, L, 5-4

Jan. 22 — HILL-MURRAY, T, 4-4

Jan. 25 — at Brainerd, W, 3-1

Jan. 28 — MAPLE GROVE, L, 8-4

Jan. 29 — WHITE BEAR LAKE, W, 9-2

Feb. 5 — WAYZATA, W, 5-3

Feb. 8 — ANDOVER, W, 2-1

Feb. 11 — ST. THOMAS ACADEMY, W, 3-2

Feb. 15 — HERMANTOWN, L, 3-2

Feb. 23 — DULUTH EAST, W, 6-1

Feb. 26 — Blaine, W, 9-1

March 3 — Andover, L, 3-1

We’dliketoinvite youtobecomea partof acommunity-focusedbank thatalways puts youfirst.

Offices in Coleraine andLaPrairie

Aden Springer (16) of Greenway defends the crease against Hermantown on Feb. 25 at Amsoil Arena in Duluth.

Clint Austin / Duluth News Tribune

Greenway Raiders

Head coach: Andy Sertich

Key Departures: F Ezra Carlson (9-12—21); D Taevon Wells (1-11—12); D Coleman Groshong (2-15—17); F Aiden Rajala (5-14—19); G Nathan Jurganson (3.82 GAA, .890 save percentage)

Key returners: Sr. F Jacques Villenueve (8-7—15); Sr. F Matthew Hannah (6-5—11); Jr. F Thomas Vekich (7-6—13); Sr. F Aden Springer (12-11— 23); Sr. G Ethan Ambuehl (2.28 GAA, .901 save percentage); Jr. G Derek Gibeau (3.31 GA, .881 save percentage)

Outlook: The Raiders’ 2021-22 season was a little up and down, punctuated by two four-game losing streaks.

Greenway pulled together at the end

of the season to win five of seven games — including a win over Proctor in the Section 7A quarterfinal — before falling to eventual state champion Hermantown.

The Raiders return plenty of offense in seniors Jacques Villenueve, Matthew Hannah and Aden Spring and junior Thomas Vekich, but they lost their four starting defensemen from last season.

Coach Andy Sertich knows the new crop of defensemen will need to step up early, but he thinks it could be a good season for Greenway.

“We should be a quick, hard-working team with good skill on our top two lines,” Sertich said.

- Jamey Malcomb, News Tribune

YourCo-opis yourCommunity

AtLakeCountryPower,weareyourenergy community,andthepowerweprovideisso muchmorethan awayto keep thelights on.It’showyouplugintoyourfamily,friends and hometeam thatmakeupyourlocal cooperative. Wearecheeringyouonfora greathockeyseason!

GREENWAY RAIDERS 2022-23 SCHEDULE (home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 25 — WACONIA, 5 p.m.

Nov. 26 — SOUTH ST. PAUL, 3 p.m.

Nov. 29 — at Rock Ridge (ITMEC), 7 p.m.

Dec. 1 — PROCTOR, 7 p.m.

Dec. 13 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, 7 p.m.

Dec. 17 — at Mound Westonka, 3 p.m.

Dec. 29 — DELANO, 6 p.m.

Jan. 3 — NORTH SHORE, 7 p.m.

Jan. 5 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, 7 p.m.

Jan. 10 — at North Shore (SB), 7 p.m.

2021-22 GREENWAY RAIDERS RECORD: 13-12

Nov. 27 — at Red Lake Falls, W, 4-3

Nov. 30 — ROCK RIDGE, W, 4-3

Dec. 9 — MOOSE LAKE AREA, W, 7-0

Dec. 21 — GENTRY ACADEMY, L, 5-4

Dec. 29 — CAMBRIDGE-ISANTI, L, 4-1

Jan. 12 — NORTHERN LAKES, 7 p.m.

Jan. 14 — at Park Rapids, 7 p.m.

Jan. 19 — INTERNATIONAL FALLS, 7 p.m.

Jan. 24 — at Lake of the Woods, 7 p.m.

Jan. 27 — THIEF RIVER FALLS, 7 p.m.

Jan. 28 — EAST GRAND FORKS, 2 p.m.

Jan. 31 — at Duluth Denfeld, 7 p.m.

Feb. 3 — at Crookston, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 4 — at Red Lake Falls, 3 p.m.

Feb. 9 — at International Falls, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 10 — at Northern Lakes, 7 p.m.

Feb. 14 — PARK RAPIDS, 7 p.m.

Feb. 16 — ROCK RIDGE, 7 p.m.

Dec. 30 — MOUND WESTONKA, L, 5-0

Jan. 6 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, L, 6-2

Jan. 11 — NORTH SHORE, W, 4-1

Jan. 13 — NORTHERN LAKES, W, 5-2

Jan. 17 — HERMANTOWN, L, 9-0

Jan. 18 — at Ely, W, 9-1

Jan. 20 — at International Falls, W, 11-3

Jan. 25 — LAKE OF THE WOODS, W, 7-0

Jan. 28 — at Thief River Falls, L, 4-3

Jan. 29 — at East Grand Forks, L, 8-0

Jan. 31 — DULUTH DENFELD, L, 4-0

Feb. 3 — at Duluth Marshall, L, 4-3

Feb. 4 — CROOKSTON, W, 5-3

Feb. 8 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, W, 3-0

Feb. 11 — at Gentry Academy, L, 8-5

Feb. 14 — at North Shore, W, 4-3

Feb. 15 — at Park Rapids, W, 4-2

Feb. 17 — at Rock Ridge, L, 3-2

Feb. 23 — at Proctor, W, 5-3

Feb. 25 — Hermantown, L, 6-0

Zam Plante (27) skates with the puck against Tae’von Wells

of

of four players not returning to the Hawks’ top line after Hermantown’s run to the state championship last

Hermantown Hawks

Head coach: Pat Andrews, sixth season (115-19-18)

Key Departures: F Max Plante (1854—72); F Zam Plante (24-40—64); D, Ty Hanson (15-30—45); Beau Janzig (7-18—25); F Dominic Thomas (14-14— 28); F Gavin Blomdahl (11-16—27)

Key returners: Sr. F Kade Kohanski (22-40—62); Sr. F Wyatt Carlson (1813—31); Jr. F Dallas Vieau (17-13—30); Sr. D George Peterson (10-13—23); Sr. F Matt Kauppinen (4-8—12); Jr. Josh Kauppinen (5-3—8; Sr. G Garron Opsahl (0.95 GAA, .970 save percentage); Jr. G Dane Callaway (1.47 GAA, .919 save percentage)

Outlook: The defending champions

Good luck

Hermantown Hawks!

arguably lost more talent than any team in Class A this season. Leading goalscorer Zam Plante and defenseman Ty Hanson are off in the USHL, while Max Plante — the Hawks’ point leader last season — left for the USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program.

Those three players alone represent 57 goals and more than 180 points, but Coach Pat Andrews will also have to replace senior captain and defenseman Beau Janzig as well as the timely scoring of Gavin Blomdahl.

This year, the Hawks will depend on senior captains Kade Kohanski, Wyatt Carlson and George Peterson. Kohanski was second on the team behind Zam

Plante with 22 goals. They will also have both Dane Callaway and Garron Opsahl. Both allowed less than 1.5 goals per game and had save percentages better than .900. The pair gave up just four goals in six postseason games last year and coach Pat Andrews thinks they have the tools to stay at the top of Class A this season.

“Hermantown has a tried and true formula of stellar team D, a tenacious, puck owning, forecheck, and relentless pressure in all zones of the rink,” Andrews said. “If the Hawks are to repeat in 2023 you can rest assured it’s this recipe for success that again took them to the top.”

- Jamey Malcomb, News Tribune

HERMANTOWN HAWKS

2022-23 SCHEDULE

(home games in ALL CAPS)

Dec. 2 — Cretin-Derham Hall, 8 p.m.

Dec. 3 — at Hill-Murray, 2:30 p.m.

Dec. 10 — at Centennial, 3 p.m.

Dec. 13 — at Duluth Marshall, 7 p.m.

Dec. 16 — at Rosemount, 7 p.m.

Dec. 20 — at Duluth Denfeld, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 22 — at Orono, 7 p.m.

Dec. 28 — DELANO, 3 p.m.

Dec. 29 — at East Grand Forks, 5 p.m.

Dec. 31 — SHAKOPEE, 2 p.m.

Jan. 7 — at Eden Prairie, 3 p.m.

Jan. 12 — ST. CLOUD CATHEDRAL, 7 p.m.

Jan. 14 — at Warroad, 5 p.m.

Jan. 17 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, 7 p.m.

Jan. 20 — MOORHEAD, 7 p.m.

Jan. 21 — at St. Thomas Academy, 2 p.m.

Jan. 24 — at Superior, 7 p.m.

Jan. 26 — at Proctor, 7 p.m.

Jan. 28 — at Mahtomedi, 1 p.m.

Feb. 2 — CLOQUET-ESKO-CARLTON, 7 p.m.

Feb. 4 — TOTINO-GRACE, 3:15 p.m.

Feb. 7 — ROCK RIDGE, 7 p.m.

Feb. 10 — BENILDE-ST. MARGARET’S, 7 p.m.

Feb. 11 — CHASKA, 3:15 p.m.

Feb. 14 — GRAND RAPIDS, 7 p.m.

2021-22 HERMANTOWN HAWKS RECORD: 29-2

Dec. 3 — at Benilde-St. Margaret’s, W, 6-5

Dec. 4 — at Hill-Murray, W, 4-1

Dec. 10 — at Wayzata, W, 2-1

Dec. 11 — ROSEMOUNT, W, 6-3

Dec. 14 — DULUTH MARSHALL, W, 6-0

Dec. 18 — at Mahtomedi, W, 3-0

Dec. 23 — at Cretin-Derham Hall, L, 4-2

Dec. 29 — ORONO, W, 6-0

Dec. 30 — DELANO, W, 6-2

Jan. 4 — DULUTH DENFELD, W, 6-1

Jan. 8 — EDEN PRAIRIE, W, 5-2

Jan. 14 — at St. Cloud Cathedral, W, 8-0

Jan. 15 — WARROAD, W, 2-1

Jan. 17 — at Greenway, W, 9-0

Jan. 18 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, W, 7-0

Jan. 20 — SUPERIOR, W, 8-0

Jan. 25 — EAST GRAND FORKS, W, 6-2

Jan. 27 — PROCTOR, W, 8-0

Jan. 29 — MAPLE GROVE, L, 6-3

Feb. 3 — at Cloquet-Esko-Carlton, W, 8-0

Feb. 5 — at Totino-Grace, W, 5-1

Feb. 8 — at Rock Ridge, W, 5-1

Feb. 11 — HOLY FAMILY, W, 5-3

Feb. 12 — ST. THOMAS ACADEMY, W, 6-3

Feb. 23 — NORTH SHORE, W, 13-0

Feb. 25 — Greenway, W, 6-0

March 2 — Duluth Denfeld, W, 11-0

March 9 — New Prague, W, 5-1

March 11 — Alexandria, W, 7-1

March 12 — Warroad, W, 3-2

Clint Austin / Duluth News Tribune

(10)

Greenway on Feb. 25 at Amsoil Arena in Duluth. Plante is one

season.

(home games in ALL CAPS) Nov. 26 — WHITE

Hibbing/Chisholm Bluejackets

1 p.m.

Nov. 29 — CLOQUET-ESKO-CARLTON, 7 p.m.

Dec. 2 — ALBERT LEA, 7 p.m.

Dec. 3 — MINNEAPOLIS, 1 p.m.

Dec. 6 — at Duluth Denfeld, 7 p.m.

Dec. 9 — ROCHESTER MAYO, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 10 — RED WING, 2 p.m.

Dec. 13 — at Greenway, 7 p.m.

Dec. 22 — PROCTOR, 7 p.m.

Dec. 28 — ROCK RIDGE, 7 p.m.

Dec. 30 — DELANO, 2 p.m.

Jan. 5 — GREENWAY, 7 p.m.

Jan. 10 — at Moose Lake Area, 7 p.m.

Jan. 17 — HERMANTOWN, 7 p.m.

Jan. 19 — NORTH SHORE, 7 p.m.

Jan. 23 — DULUTH MARSHALL, 7 p.m.

Jan. 26 — at Superior, 7 p.m.

Jan. 27 — CROOKSTON, 7 p.m.

Jan. 28 — THIEF RIVER FALLS, 2 p.m.

Jan. 31 — at International Falls, 7 p.m.

Feb. 3 — at North Shore, 7 p.m.

Feb. 7 — at Northern Lakes, 7 p.m.

Feb. 14 — at Rock Ridge (ITMEC), 7 p.m.

2021-22 HIBBING/CHISHOLM

BLUEJACKETS RECORD: 13-14

Nov. 27 — at Grand Rapids, L, 11-0

Nov. 30 — at Cloquet-Esko-Carlton, L, 4-3

Dec. 2 — at International Falls, W, 8-4

Dec. 3 — ROCK RIDGE, W, 4-1

Dec. 7 — DULUTH DENFELD, L, 5-0

Dec. 23 — at Proctor, W, 3-0

Dec. 28 — DELANO, L, 2-1

Dec. 29 — MOUND WESTONKA, L, 4-1

Dec. 30 — CAMBRIDGE-ISANTI, L, 5-2

Jan. 6 — GREENWAY, W, 6-2

Jan. 7 — at Rochester Mayo, L, 1-0

Jan. 8 — at Red Wing, W, 4-3

Jan. 11 — at Moose Lake Area, W, 12-1

Jan. 18 — at Hermantown, L, 7-0

Jan. 20 — at North Shore, W, 7-0

Jan. 24 — at Duluth Marshall, L, 3-0

Jan. 27 — SUPERIOR, W, 3-2

Jan. 28 — at Crookston, W, 6-0

Jan. 29 — at Thief River Falls, L, 2-1

Jan. 31 — PROCTOR, L, 2-1

Feb. 4 — NORTH SHORE, W, 6-1

Feb. 7 — INTERNATIONAL FALLS, W, 7-1

Feb. 8 — at Greenway, L, 3-0

Feb. 11 — at St. Paul Johnson, W, 6-2

Feb. 15 — at Rock Ridge, L, 4-0

Feb. 23 — at Rock Ridge, W, 4-2

Feb. 25 — Duluth Denfeld, L, 3-0

Head coach: Eric Rewertz, third season

Key departures: F Drew Janezich (5-4—9); F Mikael Andrican (3-7—10); F Kasey Kemp 15-12—27; D Drew Kubena (2-16—18); G Evan Radovich (3.08 GAA, .869 save percentage)

Key returners: Sr. G Brayden Boyer (2.45 GAA, .905 save percentage); D Tristan Babich (1-12—13); Sr. D Nathan Rude (1-4—5); Jr. D Christian Edmonds (3-5—8); Jr. D Blaydon McCue (0-3—3); Sr. F Keeghan Fink 8-7—15); Sr. F Christian Dickson (6-12—18)

Outlook: The Bluejackets were among the better defensive teams in the area last season, but often struggled to score.

They advanced to the Section 7A semifinal, but fell to Duluth Denfeld for the second consecutive year.

Hibbing/Chisholm lost its top scorer from a year ago, but returns 11 seniors that will look to continue the strong defense and hopefully score more goals. Anchoring the defense will be senior goalie Brayden Boyer, a third-year starter with a 2.45 goals-against average and a .905

save percentage. The Bluejackets also return four defensemen this season, including juniors Christian Edmonds and Blaydon McCue, who were impressive as sophomores.

Coach Eric Rewertz is hoping to capitalize on power play opportunities this year. Last season, the Bluejackets penalty kill was above 90%, according to Rewertz, but they were unable to capitalize on their own chances.

“One of our challenges is going to be finding the back of the net — we’ve got to score more goals this year to take some pressure off our defense and open up our game,” Rewertz said. “Last year, that was a struggle. We scored just over three goals a game and gave up just under three. We need to find some goalscorers along the way and get them into situations they can score. One area I’d like to improve this year is our power play. If our power play had been a little bit better, I think we would have had a different outcome in many of our games.”

- Jamey Malcomb, News Tribune

Moose Lake Area Rebels

Head coach: Chris Gamst, first season

Key departures: G Henry Dammer (6.97 GAA, .855 save percentage); F Henry Ribich

(3-9—12)

Key returners: Jr. F Jaxsyn Schmidt (7-8— 15); Sr. G Richie Balut (8.47 GAA, .808 save percentage); Sr. F Sam Knezevich (6-5—11); Sr. F Gavin Mlaskoch (6-4—10); Sr. F Everett Gamst (3-5—8); Jr. D Jordan Bird (1-2—3)

Outlook: The Rebels struggled to just two wins last season, struggling to score and stop opposing offenses.

Moose Lake Area scored just 35 goals all season, while the defense gave up 177 goals. The Rebels will have to replace goalie Henry Dammer and forward Henry Ribich, but they return leading scorer Jaxsyn Schmidt and several other of their top players from a year ago.

First-year head coach Chris Gamst said the program had numbers problems last season and as

he works to change the culture around the team, the Rebels will have to hang their hat on team defense.

“Last year, they gave up an enormous amount of goals, they ran into some issues with ineligibility and sicknesses,” Gamst said. “They were playing with nine, 10, 11 guys sometimes, so they just ran out of energy. This year, we’re going to have to change up the system and go defense first.”

Gamst said the team has 23 players coming out this season and the hope is to build those numbers to have a junior varsity team in 202324. He also plans to schedule more games against teams the Rebels can be competitive with and come closer to a 500 record.

“If you’re trying to build for the future you want to get to those double-digit wins to enthusiastically get the youth involved,” Gamst said.

- Jamey Malcomb, News Tribune

MOOSE LAKE AREA REBELS 2022-23 SCHEDULE

(home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 25 — Red Wing, 1 p.m.

Nov. 26 — St. Paul Highland Park, 1 p.m.

Dec. 1 — at Mora/Milaca, 7 p.m.

Dec. 6 — at Greenway, 7 p.m.

Dec. 8 — FREDERIC, 7 p.m.

Dec. 10 — at Ely, 1 p.m.

Dec. 16 — ASHLAND, 7 p.m.

Dec. 17 — NORTH SHORE, 7 p.m.

Dec. 27 — at Proctor Holiday Classic

Dec. 28 — at Proctor Holiday Classic

Dec. 29 — at Proctor Holiday Classic

Jan. 6 — MORA/MILACA, 7 p.m.

Jan. 10 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, 7 p.m.

Jan. 14 — at Pine City, 3 p.m.

Jan. 17 — at Becker/Big Lake, 7 p.m.

Jan. 20 — LAKE OF THE WOODS, 6 p.m.

Jan. 21 — at International Falls, 1 p.m.

Jan. 24 — at Ashland, 7 p.m.

Jan. 28 — WILLMAR, 1 p.m.

Jan. 31 — FREDERIC, 7 p.m.

Feb. 3 — BECKER/BIG LAKE, 7 p.m.

Feb. 7 — at North Shore, 7 p.m.

Feb. 10 — ELY, 6 p.m.

Feb. 14 — at Proctor, 7 p.m.

2021-22 MOOSE LAKE AREA REBELS RECORD: 13-14

Nov. 26 — Two Rivers, L, 11-2

Nov. 27 — Red Wing, L, 11-1

Dec. 2 — at Becker/Big Lake, L, 9-3

Dec. 3 — at Mora/Milaca, L, 7-1

Dec. 7 — WSFLG, L, 6-2

Dec. 9 — at Greenway, L, 7-0

Dec. 11 — at Ely, L, 6-0

Dec. 16 — at Ashland, L, 4-3

Dec. 17 — NORTH SHORE, W, 6-2

Dec. 28 — North Shore, W, 6-2

Dec. 29 — Somerset, L, 10-2

Dec. 30 — Red Lake Falls, L, 13-2

Jan. 6 — MORA/MILACA, L, 8-0

Jan. 8 — SAUK RAPIDS-RICE, L, 15-1

Jan. 11 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, L, 12-1

Jan. 22 — at International Falls, L, 7-0

Feb. 1 — at WSFLG, W, 4-3

Feb. 4 — at Lake of the Woods, L, 8-0

Feb. 8 — at North Shore, L, 8-2

Feb. 11 — ELY, T, 2-2

Feb. 14 — INTERNATIONAL FALLS, L, 10-0

Feb. 15 — PROCTOR, L, 7-1

Feb. 19 — at International Falls, L, 7-0

Photo courtesy of Chrissy Gamst Moose Lake Area’s Everett Gamst (14) works the puck to Jaxsyn Schmidt (3) for a shot during a 2022 game against North Shore.

North Shore’s Jake Stadler tries to clear the puck during a 2022 matchup against Duluth Denfeld.

NORTH SHORE STORM 2022-23 SCHEDULE

(home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 25 — SOUTH ST. PAUL (TH), 7 p.m.

Nov. 26 — WADENA-DEER CREEK (SB), 2 p.m.

Dec. 6 — at Ely, 6 p.m.

Dec. 8 — HAYWARD (TH), 6 p.m.

Dec. 13 — at Superior, 7 p.m.

Dec. 17 — at Moose Lake Area, 7 p.m.

Dec. 22 — CAMBRIDGE-ISANTI (TH), 6 p.m.

Jan. 3 — at Greenway, 7 p.m.

Jan. 6 — DULUTH DENFELD (TH), 7 p.m.

Jan. 7 — MINNEAPOLIS (TH), 3 p.m.

2021-22 NORTH SHORE STORM RECORD: 7-19

Nov. 27 — WADENA-DEER CREEK, L, 5-0

Dec. 7 — ELY, W, 3-1

Dec. 14 — SUPERIOR, L, 5-3

Dec. 17 — at Moose Lake Area, L, 6-2

Dec. 21 — at Hayward, L, 4-3

Dec. 23 — at Cambridge-Isanti, L, 2-1

Dec. 28 — Moose Lake Area, W, 4-2

Dec. 29 — Ely, W, 2-1

Dec. 30 — Somerset, L, 6-3

Jan. 7 — at Duluth Denfeld, L, 10-0

Jan. 11 — at Greenway, L, 4-1

Jan. 13 — PROCTOR, L, 3-0

Jan. 10 — GREENWAY (SB), 7 p.m.

Jan. 17 — ROCK RIDGE (SB), 7 p.m.

Jan. 19 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, 7 p.m.

Jan. 26 — INTERNATIONAL FALLS (TH), 6 p.m.

Jan. 28 — MORA/MILACA (SB), 3 p.m.

Jan. 30 — DULUTH MARSHALL, 7 p.m.

Jan. 31 — at Ashland, 7 p.m.

Feb. 3 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM (SB), 7 p.m.

Feb. 6 — ELY (SB), 6 p.m.

Feb. 7 — MOOSE LAKE AREA (TH), 7 p.m.

Feb. 9 — PROCTOR (SB), 7 p.m.

Feb. 14 — at International Falls, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 17 — at Duluth Marshall, L, 5-1

Jan. 18 — at Rock Ridge, L, 10-0

Jan. 20 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, L, 7-0

Jan. 24 — MORA/MILACA, L, 8-1

Jan. 27 — INTERNATIONAL FALLS, L, 4-2

Feb. 1 — ASHLAND, W, 4-1

Feb. 4 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, L, 6-1

Feb. 7 — at Ely, W, 4-2

Feb. 8 — MOOSE LAKE AREA, W, 8-2

Feb. 10 — at Proctor, L, 5-1

Feb. 14 — GREENWAY, L, 4-3

Feb. 15 — at International Falls, L, 7-2

Feb. 19 — ELY, W, 7-1

Feb. 23 — at Hermantown, L, 13-0

North Shore Storm

Head coach: Shawn Lundgren, second season

Key Departures: 2022 senior class

Key returners: Greyson Peterson (2-6—8); Jake Stadler (10-6—16)

Outlook: North Shore lost several players to graduation, but will welcome nine new players to the program in 2022-23.

Second-year coach Shawn Lundgren said the Storm’s strengths are their “work ethic, commitment and the desire to play hard for each other.”

Lundgren said that while North Shore lost 19 of its 26 games last season, the team doesn’t face any challenges headed into the 2022-23 campaign.

Jake Stadler and Greyson Peterson are the highest

scoring returners for the Storm. The pair scored a combined eight goals and had 24 total points.

“We understand that as a collective group, we need to

be the hardest working team daily,” Lundgren said. “The success is based on making this commitment.”

- Jamey Malcomb,

News Tribune

Proctor’s A.J. Reyelts is one of two experienced goaltenders returning for the Rails this season.

Photo courtesy of Jeff Laspi

Proctor Rails

Head coach: Jeff Laspi, third season

Key ddepartures: G Sam Johnson (2.77 GAA, .918 save percentage); F Kennan Reyelts (25-14—39); F Dylan Haala (2-29—31); F Cullen Solem (7-12—19); Tanner Olson (5-14—19)

Key returners: Jr. D Carson Pavlowich (10-12—22)

Outlook: The Rails stumbled out of the gate, losing five of their first eight games, but righted the ship midseason with a 10-game unbeaten streak before falling to Greenway in the Section 7A quarterfinal.

It won’t get any easier, however, with the departure of senior goalie Sam Johnson and forwards Kennan Reyelts, Dylan Haala and Cullen Solem. Johnson had a stellar .918 save percentage and Reyelts led the team with 25 goals and was tied for the team lead with 14 assists.

Coach Jeff Laspi said the strength of the team and the program will again be goaltending. Blake Imhoff and A.J. Reyelts will split time and both posted save percentages better than .933 in limited action last season.

In addition, the Rails return three

GO PROCTOR RAILS

defensemen that logged plenty of minutes last season, including junior Carson Pavlowich, who was tied for second on the team with 10 goals in 2021-22.

“Our biggest challenge will be replacing the leadership and scoring of last year’s seniors,” Laspi said. “Section 7A always has a few high-end teams that can score in bunches. We have to be able to win some of the high-scoring matchups if we want to compete for a section title.”

- Jamey Malcomb, News Tribune

PROCTOR RAILS

2022-23 SCHEDULE

(home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 25 — WADENA-DEER CREEK, 7 p.m.

Dec. 1 — at Greenway, 7 p.m.

Dec. 2 — BRECK, 7 p.m.

Dec. 6 — GRAND RAPIDS, 7 p.m.

Dec. 9 — RED WING, 7 p.m.

Dec. 10 — ROCHESTER MAYO, 11 a.m.

Dec. 13 — CLOQUET-ESKO-CARLTON, 7 p.m.

Dec. 15 — at Duluth Marshall, 7 p.m.

Dec. 22 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, 7 p.m.

Dec. 27 — NEW PRAGUE, 7 p.m.

Dec. 28 — SOMERSET, 7 p.m.

Dec. 29 — OSSEO, 5:30 p.m.

Jan. 3 — at Mora/Milaca, 7 p.m.

Jan. 5 — DULUTH DENFELD, 7 p.m.

Jan. 7 — INTERNATIONAL FALLS, 2 p.m.

Jan. 10 — ELY, 6 p.m.

Jan. 19 — at Northern Edge, 7 p.m.

Jan. 26 — HERMANTOWN, 7 p.m.

Jan. 28 — at East Ridge, 3 p.m.

Jan. 31 — PINE CITY AREA, 7 p.m.

Feb. 2 — SUPERIOR, 7 p.m.

Feb. 4 — at Princeton, 7 p.m.

Feb. 9 — at North Shore (SB), 7 p.m.

Feb. 10 — at Rock Ridge (ITMEC), 7 p.m.

Feb. 14 — MOOSE LAKE, 7 p.m.

2021-22 PROCTOR RAILS RECORD: 8-17-2

Nov. 26 — WADENA-DEER CREEK, W, 6-5

Nov. 27 — EAST RIDGE, L, 2-0

Nov. 29 — DULUTH MARSHALL, W, 1-0

Dec. 3 — at Pine City Area, W, 4-3

Dec. 7 — at Grand Rapids, L, 7-0

Dec. 14 — at Cloquet-Esko-Carlton, L, 4-2

Dec. 18 — at Duluth Denfeld, L, 6-2

Dec. 23 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, L, 3-0

Dec. 28 — SOMERSET, W, 6-3

Dec. 29 — RED LAKE FALLS, W, 4-2

Dec. 30 — MINNEHAHA ACADEMY, W, 6-1

Jan. 4 — MORA/MILACA, W, 3-1

Jan. 7 — at Red Wing, W, 3-2

Jan. 8 — at Rochester Mayo, T, 2-2

Jan. 11 — at Ely, W, 7-0

Jan. 13 — at North Shore, W, 3-0

Jan. 18 — at International Falls, W, 3-1

Jan. 20 — NORTHERN EDGE, W, 7-2

Jan. 27 — at Hermantown, L, 8-0

Jan. 31 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, W, 2-1

Feb. 3 — at Superior, L, 2-1

Feb. 5 — PRINCETON, W, 6-2

Feb. 10 — NORTH SHORE, W, 5-1

Feb. 11 — ROCK RIDGE, L, 2-1

Feb. 15 — at Moose Lake, W, 7-1

Feb. 23 — GREENWAY, L, 5-3

ROCK RIDGE WOLVERINES

2022-23 SCHEDULE

(home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 29 — GREENWAY (V), 7 p.m.

Dec. 3 — ALBERT LEA (E), 3 p.m.

Dec. 6 — at International Falls, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 9 — WARROAD (E), 7 p.m.

Dec. 13 — at Duluth Denfeld, 7 p.m.

Dec. 16 — LITTLE FALLS (E), 7 p.m.

Dec. 17 — ST. CLOUD CATHEDRAL (E), 3 p.m.

Dec. 20 — at Superior, 7 p.m.

Dec. 28 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, 7 p.m.

Dec. 30 — CAMBRIDGE-ISANTI (E), 3 p.m.

Jan. 6 — MINNEAPOLIS (V), 7 p.m.

2021-22 ROCK RIDGE WOLVERINES RECORD: 14-11-1

Nov. 30 — at Greenway, L, 4-3

Dec. 3 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, L, 1-4

Dec. 10 — at Warroad, L, 6-0

Dec. 11 — at Lake of the Woods, W, 6-0

Dec. 14 — DULUTH DENFELD, L, 6-2

Dec. 21 — SUPERIOR, W, 2-1

Dec. 28 — MOUND WESTONKA, W, 6-1

Dec. 29 — at Thief River Falls, L, 4-1

Dec. 30 — Crookston, W, 9-0

Jan. 4 — DULUTH EAST, L, 5-3

Jan. 7 — at Bloomington Kennedy, W, 3-0

Jan. 8 — at Minneapolis, L, 3-2

Jan. 10 — INTERNATIONAL FALLS (V), 7 p.m.

Jan. 13 — at Providence Academy, 7 p.m.

Jan. 14 — at Mound Westonka, 3 p.m.

Jan. 17 — at North Shore (SB), 7 p.m.

Jan. 21 — PRINCETON (V), 3 p.m.

Jan. 24 — CLOQUET-ESKO-CARLTON (V), 7 p.m.

Jan. 26 — DULUTH DENFELD (V), 7 p.m.

Feb. 3 — at Brainerd, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 4 — at Sartell-St. Stephen, 3 p.m.

Feb. 7 — at Hermantown, 7 p.m.

Feb. 10 — PROCTOR (V), 7 p.m.

Feb. 11 — at Pine City Area, 3 p.m.

Feb. 14 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM (V), 7 p.m.

Feb. 16 — at Greenway, 7 p.m.

Jan. 15 — PROVIDENCE ACADEMY, T, 3-3

Jan. 18 — NORTH SHORE, W, 10-0

Jan. 22 — at Princeton, W, 1-0

Jan. 25 — at Cloquet-Esko-Carlton, L, 3-0

Jan. 27 — at Duluth Denfeld, W, 6-2

Jan. 31 — INTERNATIONAL FALLS, W, 6-0

Feb. 3 — at International Falls, W, 8-2

Feb. 5 — SARTELL-ST. STEPHEN, L, 3-1

Feb. 8 — HERMANTOWN, L, 5-1

Feb. 11 — at Proctor, W, 2-1

Feb. 12 — PINE CITY AREA, W, 10-3

Feb. 15 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, W, 4-0

Feb. 17 — GREENWAY, W, 3-2

Feb. 23 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, L, 4-2

Rock Ridge Wolverines

Head coach: Ben Johnson, second season

Key departures: G Ian Kangas (2.67 GAA, .909 save percentage); D Nick Troutwine (14-0—23); D Braden Tiedeman (1-8—9); D Tyler Lamourea (2-3— 5); Evan Skelton (0-1—1)

Key returners: Sr. F Dylan Hedley (11-15—26); Sr. F Isaac Flatley (9-11—20); Sr. F Ryan Manninen (9-9—18); Jr. D Sam Troutwine (4-4—8); Soph. D Derik Dahl (0-1—1)

Outlook: The Wolverines won 14 games in their first year combining the programs of Virginia and Eveleth-Gilbert, falling to Hibbing/Chisholm in the Section 7A quarterfinal to end the season.

Coach Ben Johnson will have to replace goaltender Ian Kangas as well as Rock Ridge’s top four defenders this season.

The Wolverines do return their top point scorer in senior Dylan Hedley as well as forwards Isaac Flatley and Isaac Manninen. The only defensemen

with experience returning this season are junior Sam Troutwine and sophomore Derik Dahl, but Eveleth and Virginia both had strong Bantam teams that will bring much needed skill to Rock Ridge.

“We have a lot of young talent coming through,” Johnson said. “Even though we’re going to be a young team, we have a lot more skill than we probably had last year and the competition is extremely stiff now that we’ve combined.”

Johnson said the team should have more speed and

size this year compared to last year and he thinks the team could take a leap in its second year of existence.

“We have some big boys on our team, a bunch of guys over 6 feet that can move and are in shape,’’ Johnson said. “It’s still an unknown, but we have a lot of confidence we can have a good season in season two. We’ve had a chance to work out over the summer and the guys have gotten to know each other better — last year was a lot of moving parts with combining.”

- Jamey Malcomb, News Tribune

Duluth East’s Cole Christian (5) works to keep the puck away from Rock Ridge’s Dylan Hedley during the Greyhounds’ 5-3 win in Eveleth last season.

Jamey Malcomb / Duluth News Tribune

FIVE GAMES TO WATCH

Duluth East vs. St. Thomas Academy

3 p.m. Nov. 26 (at Bloomington)

The annual Youth Hockey Hub Opener features a matchup that will get a lot of attention inside and outside the Twin Cities metro. Citing a lack of support, Mike Randolph left Duluth East in 2021 with 671 career victories but also under an administrative investigation. After a year as an assistant, Randolph was elevated to coach St. Thomas. Neither team was happy with last year, with St. Thomas going 13-13-1 and the Greyhounds going 8-18-1.

Hibbing/Chisholm at Duluth Denfeld

7 p.m. Dec. 6

Hibbing/Chisholm fell to Denfeld 3-0 in the Section 7A semifinal last year, but the Hunters lost three of their top four scorers from last season. This game will be a good test for both teams as the Bluejackets look to end Denfeld’s run of advancing to the section final the last three years.

Duluth Denfeld at Duluth East

7 p.m. Jan. 17

The Hunters topped Duluth East for the first time in nine years in a game remembered more for ugly penalties than hockey. The Greyhounds hope to rebound, while the Hunters are hoping to continue their run of three consecutive trips to the Section 7A championship.

Hermantown vs. Mahtomedi

1 p.m. Jan. 29 (at White Bear Lake)

The Hawks will face off with the Zephyrs in one of three Hockey Day Minnesota matchups in White Bear Lake. The Zephyrs must replace goalie Ben Dardis, 2022 Frank Brimsek award winner, from their third-place team, while Hermantown must replace the offensive production of Zam and Max Plante.

Grand Rapids at Hermantown

7 p.m. Feb. 14

The Thunderhawks and Hermantown met in the regular season finale for both teams in 2022 and it was perhaps the game of the year, with Hermantown falling behind by two goals before a third period rally and a game-winning goal in overtime by Max Plante.

GOOD LUCK SPARTANS!

Jed Carlson / Superior Telegram Superior’s Carson Gotelaere (9) keeps control of the puck as he gets knocked to the ice in a 2022 Spartans’ playoff game at Wessman Arena in Superior.

Superior Spartans

Head coach: Evan Nelson, first season

Key departures: 19 seniors including D Mason Stenberg (3-5— 8); D George Hansen (4-9—13); F Carter Kalin (2-0—2); F Kell Piggott (6-3—9); G Trevor Soderlund (3.24 GAA, .893 save percentage)

Key returners: Sr. F Carson Gotelaere (3-7—10); Sr. D Trevor Anderson (1-3—4); Jr. F Lucas Williams (6-4—10); Sr. F Caden Lia (0-1—1); Soph. F Braydon Hurtig (1-3—4)

Outlook: There might not be another team in the area that looks more different than Superior this season.

The Spartans graduated 19 seniors, including defensemen Mason Stenberg and George Hanson, forwards Carter Kalin and Kell Piggott as well as All-Area goaltender Trevor Soderlund.

In addition, for the first time in 21 years, the Spartans will have a new face on the bench after Jason Kalin stepped down at the end of the 2021-22 season.

Superior had a stout defense,

giving up just over three goals a game, but the Spartans scored just 75 goals all season. Despite just seven regular season wins, the Spartans used their difficult schedule to springboard them to the sectional championship, where they fell to Hudson 5-2.

First-year coach Evan Nelson is still learning about his team, but said his early preliminary thought is “there is no shortage of compete from this group as well as an eagerness to learn.”

Nelson said the biggest challenge will be getting his young and inexperienced team to “buy in,” but he thinks they could develop into another formidable team at the end of the season.

“Our goal is to take it one week at a time with the end goal of building a state championship run in March,” Nelson said. “It will take hard work, dedication, and trust. All while learning to control what we can control.”

- Jamey Malcomb, News Tribune

SUPERIOR SPARTANS

2022-23 SCHEDULE

(home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 25 — Eau Claire Tournament, 4 p.m.

Nov. 26 — Eau Claire Tournament, 11 a.m.

Dec. 2 — at Hayward, 7 p.m.

Dec. 10 — at Duluth Denfeld, 6:15 p.m.

Dec. 13 — NORTH SHORE, 7 p.m.

Dec. 15 — DULUTH DENFELD, 6:15 p.m.

Dec. 20 — ROCK RIDGE, 7 p.m.

Jan. 7 — NEW RICHMOND, 2 p.m.

Jan. 10 — at Grand Rapids, 7 p.m.

Jan. 13 — EAU CLAIRE NORTH, 7 p.m.

Jan. 17 — CHIPPEWA FALLS, 6 p.m.

Jan. 20 — BALDWIN-WOODVILLE, 7 p.m.

Jan. 24 — HERMANTOWN, 7 p.m.

Jan. 26 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, 7 p.m.

Jan. 28 — DODGE COUNTY, 1 p.m.

Feb. 1 — at Duluth East, 7 p.m.

Feb. 2 — at Proctor, 7 p.m.

Feb. 3 — UNIVERSITY SCHOOL MILW., 7 p.m.

Feb. 9 — CLOQUET-ESKOCARLTON, 7 p.m.

2021-22 SUPERIOR SPARTANS RECORD: 10-17-1

Nov. 23 — MENOMONIE, W, 7-0

Nov. 26 — at GB Notre Dame, L, 6-1

Nov. 27 — at Wausau West, L, 4-2

Dec. 7 — DULUTH MARSHALL, W, 6-2

Dec. 14 — at North Shore, W, 5-3

Dec. 21 — at Rock Ridge, L, 2-1

Dec. 28 — Madison Edgewood, L, 3-1

Dec. 29 — Chippewa Falls, L, 4-3

Dec. 30 — Wausau West, T, 2-2

Jan. 4 — HAYWARD, W, 1-0

Jan. 6 — DULUTH DENFELD, L, 3-2

Jan. 11 — GRAND RAPIDS, L, 7-0

Jan. 14 — at Baldwin-Woodville, L, 4-0

Jan. 15 — at Hudson, L, 3-1

Jan. 18 — at Chippewa Falls, L, 1-0

Jan. 20 — at Hermantown, L, 8-0

Jan. 22 — at New Richmond, W, 3-2

Jan. 25 — at Stevens Point, L, 4-1

Jan. 27 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, L, 3-2

Jan. 29 — NORTHLAND PINES, W, 9-1

Feb. 2 — DULUTH EAST, L, 5-2

Feb. 3 — PROCTOR, W, 2-1

Feb. 5 — at Eau Claire North, L, 3-1

Feb. 10 — at Cloquet-Esko-Carlton, L, 5-2

Feb. 15 — TOMAH/SPARTA, W, 4-0

Feb. 17 — at Eau Claire Memorial, W, 3-1

Feb. 23 — at Chippewa Falls, W, 4-3

Feb. 25 — Hudson, L, 5-2

Hoff, Hilltoppers hope to reach new heights

BY JON NOWACKI Duluth News Tribune

DULUTH — Callie

Hoff was fresh out of college, graduating in May after a stellar fiveyear women’s hockey career at WisconsinRiver Falls, so the 2017 Hermantown High School graduate didn’t get too excited when first hearing that Duluth Marshall had an opening for its girls hockey headcoaching position in early September.

“I wasn’t sure of my plans,” Hoff said. “I just graduated college, so I wasn’t really thinking about being a head coach. I kind of took it lightly at first, but then the more I learned, the more I started getting serious about the opportunity.”

Less than a month later, Hoff was leading the Hilltoppers, replacing Amanda Boulier, who resigned after two seasons. Hoff is one of four new female girls hockey head coaches in the area.

“I always wanted to coach, but it just came

quickly,” Hoff said. “I talked to some people in the community and was encouraged to do it. I heard nothing but great things about this program, and I haven’t been disappointed. It’s been nothing but great so far.”

The feeling appears mutual.

“She pushes us really hard, but is just super sweet and cares a lot about us,” Hilltoppers senior captain Meredith Boettcher said. “You can tell. She is always asking us questions and asking for feedback. She just wants what’s best for us.”

With River Falls, Hoff was named the American Hockey Coaches Association Laura Hurd Player of the Year last March, given to the top women’s hockey player in NCAA Division III.

Hoff led the nation with 67 points on 26 goals and 41 assists, breaking the Falcons’ single-season record, and exited as River Falls’ all-time leading scorer.

“It was awesome,” she said.

With that kind of skill, and given her age, only 23, it’s no wonder Hoff loves jumping into drills, and the Hilltoppers often find themselves flat-skated, watching in awe.

“Oh yeah, she’s always hopping into our drills, and we appreciate it because there are times we’re sucking air, we’re so tired,” Boettcher said. “She’s great, and she’s fun to watch, too. She usually scores when she demonstrates.”

Not long after getting the job, Hoff enlisted Shawna Davidison, former Minnesota Duluth women’s hockey assistant, to come on board as associate head coach.

It’s been a sort of match made in Hilltopper heaven.

Davidson knows a lot of the players from her involvement in the Duluth feeder program, the Duluth Icebreakers. She coached some of them. She even coached Hoff.

HOFF: Page 21

Clint Austin / Duluth News Tribune

Head coach Callie Hoff interacts with her players during Duluth Marshall’s girls hockey practice at Mars Lakeview Arena on Nov. 9 in Duluth.

FIVE PLAYERS TO WATCH

BY JON NOWACKI Duluth News Tribune

Good Luck

This Year To All Athletes & Teams!

Grand Rapids-Greenway

ARAYA KIMINSKI MERCURY BISCHOFF

Sophomore forward

Bischoff led the Northland in scoring last year with 49 goals and 25 assists for 74 points and keeps getting better. “Mercury is one of the top 2025 (graduating) female players in the country,” Lightning coach Brad Hyduke said. “Her rare combination of deception, elite skating creativity and hockey IQ makes her an electric player who is a joy to coach and watch.”

Cloquet/Esko/Carlton Senior goalie

A list of any top five would be remiss without a netminder, and the Lumberjacks have a really good one in the veteran Kiminski, a two-time All-Area selection who backstopped CEC to a state runnerup finish in 2020 as a freshman. She helped carry the Lumberjacks to a 19-7-1 record last season, posting a Northland-best 1.34 GAA to go along with a .921 save percentage and nine shutouts. That included a stretch where she only allowed one goal in more than 7 1/2 hours of hockey, achieving her 1,000th career save in the process.

NYA SIEGER

Proctor/Hermantown Senior forward

It’s hard to stand out on a team as deep and talented as Proctor/Hermantown, but Sieger (2130—50) has found a way to do it. She was the top point-getter for the Class A runner-up Mirage last year and along with juniors Izy Fairchild (2814—42) and Hannah Graves (16-12—28), has opponents feeling like the Mirage come in waves.

ILSA LINDAMAN MEREDITH BOETTCHER

Duluth Marshall Senior forward

Boettcher is a versatile player who has played her share along the blue line over the years. Last season the Nazareth College (Pittsford, N.Y.) recruit had 13 goals and 21 assists for 34 points. She, along with teammate and best friend, senior forward Danica Mark (9-11—20), won the Class A state consolation tennis doubles title this fall. “I prefer forward but know I’m a capable defender, so it’s another tool,” Boettcher said.

Duluth Marshall Junior forward

Lindaman is a prolific scorer, notching 34 goals and 21 assists for 55 points in just 25 contests last season. Just a junior, she has committed to playing college hockey at the University of St. Thomas, an upstart NCAA Division I program in St. Paul. The Duluth News Tribune All-Area First Team selection will serve as captain this winter for the Hilltoppers while centering one of two very talented lines.

Cloquet OPEN YEAR ROUND

Pine Tree Plaza, Cloquet (next to Super One) 218-879-9352

CLOQUET/ESKO/CARLTON

LUMBERJACKS 2022-23 SCHEDULE

(home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 12 — at Anoka

Nov. 18 — SOUTH ST. PAUL

Nov. 19 — BLOOMINGTON JEFFERSON

Nov. 22 — at Moose Lake Area

Nov. 26 — at Orono, 1 p.m.

Nov. 29 — GRAND RAPIDS/GREENWAY, 7 p.m.

Dec. 6 — NORTH SHORE, 7 p.m.

Dec. 8 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, 7 p.m.

Dec. 13 — DULUTH, 7 p.m.

Dec. 16 — SARTELL/SAUK RAPIDS, 7 p.m.

Dec. 22 — at Pine City Area, 7 p.m.

Jan. 3 — at Duluth Marshall, 7 p.m.

Jan. 5 — MOOSE LAKE AREA, 7 p.m.

Jan. 7 — OSSEO/PARK CENTER, 3 p.m.

Jan. 10 — SUPERIOR, 7 p.m.

Jan. 12 — at Duluth, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 17 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, 7 p.m.

Jan. 19 — at Northern Lakes, 7 p.m.

Jan. 24 — NORTHERN TIER, 3 p.m.

Jan. 27 — at Chisago Lakes, 7 p.m.

Jan. 30 — at North Shore, 7 p.m.

Feb. 3 — at Thief River Falls, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 4 — at Bemidji, 2 p.m.

CLOQUET/ESKO/CARLTON LUMBERJACKS ROSTER

Cloquet/Esko/Carlton Lumberjacks

Head coach: Kennedy Houge, first season

2021-22 record: 19-7-1

Conference: Lake Superior Section: 7A

Key departures: F Dana Jones (16-19— 35), F Marina Dostal (19-14—33), D Tenley Stewart (8-15—23)

Key returners: G Araya Kiminski (1.34 GAA, .921 save

percentage, nine shutouts), D Emily Litchke (3-9—12), F Emma Parks (1-8—9)

Newcomer to watch: seventh-grade defenseman Megan Werhan

Outlook: Houge, in her first season as head coach but fourth with the program, inherits a team that will look to its returning veterans and a large group of

Good Luck Cloquet Girls!

new players to fill the void after graduating a strong senior class. The Lumberjacks are led by another solid group of eight seniors who have seen their fair share of varsity action. They will look to opportunities for new growth while trying to develop more offensive firepower.

“Our team prides itself on working hard and playing solid positional

hockey,” Houge said. Houge hopes the Lumberjacks rise to the occasion when facing another tough schedule this season and bounce back stronger than ever. They have a little added motivation after suffering a tough 5-1 loss to Duluth Marshall in last season’s Section 7A semifinals.

- Jon Nowacki, News Tribune

Emma Parks (8) of Cloquet-Esko-Carlton is sent airborne while competing with Lily Kahara (11) and Mackenzie Hoffman (14), both of Moose Lake, for the puck on Nov. 23, 2021, at Northwoods Credit Union Arena in Cloquet.

Clint Austin / Duluth News Tribune

Duluth Northern Stars

Head coach: Ali Randall, first season

2021-22 record: 6-19

Conference: Lake Superior Section: 7AA

Key departures: F Emma Fellman (8-6—14), F Elaine Benson (1-9—10), F/D Hannah Martin (7-4—11)

Key returners: Sr. F Jenna Horvat (5-9—14), Sr. D Bailey Coole (2-4—6), Jr. F Grace Karakas (7-9—16), Sr. F Rylan Lorentz (8-3—11), Jr. D Karyssa Clough (4-2—6), Jr. D Lucy Fellman (8-6—14), Jr. G Ella Brisbois (4.28 GAA, .873 save percentage), So. F Gracyn Schipper (8-8—16)

Newcomers to watch: Fr. F Mae McCall, Jr. F Ellie Marcinak

Outlook: Randall, who was a member of the 2012 Minnetonka (Minn.) High School Class AA state championship team, has been heavily involved with the Duluth Icebreakers, including coaching four seasons with the U-12A team. The Icebreakers finished third at the state tournament in 2019 and some of the girls on that roster are sophomores and juniors for the Northern Stars now.

HOFF

From Page 18

“I have a very good mentor in Shawna,” Hoff said. “I’ve already learned a lot from her, and hopefully the girls learn a lot from both of us.”

Boettcher agreed.

“Honestly, it’s been wonderful,” Boettcher said. “Callie and Shawna, they really balance each other out. Callie, she’s younger, she can relate to us more, and she just played as an All-American at River Falls, so that’s great to have her. And then Shawna, with all of her experience … they just make a great pair.”

And it wasn’t like they were handed the keys to a ’78 Pinto here.

The Hilltoppers are coming off back-to-back appearances in the Section 7A title game and went 17-8 last season.

“Amanda did a great job with the girls and with the team,” Hoff said. “I don’t feel any pressure. I’m just excited to see where this team goes. It’s a new

team from what they had last year and we have less players. I’m going to do the best I can and they’re going to do the best they can, and that’s all you can ask for.”

The only team standing in the Hilltoppers’ way the past two seasons has been Hoff’s old team, the Proctor/Hermantown Mirage.

While Duluth Marshall can’t match their depth, the Hilltoppers have plenty of talent.

Duluth Marshall has two very strong lines centered by junior Ilsa Lindaman (34-21—55) and senior Danica Mark (9-11—20), but can’t afford any injuries.

The Hilltoppers will not field a junior varsity for the first time since they reemerged as a Minnesota State High School League program in 2014-15.

“We have a very small team of 17 players — 15 skaters and two goalies,” Hoff said. “Let’s just say these girls will get lots of playing time. They’re ready and excited for it. It’ll be a good test for

them.”

The defense is very young but has talent with the likes of freshman Sarah Stauber. Boettcher (13-21—34) has played along the blue line, and can certainly help there if needed, but the plan to start the season, at least, is to keep her up front.

With junior goalie Chloe Clark and sophomore Ray Anderson, the Hilltoppers are solid in net.

“We’re all just trying to learn together,” Hoff said. “I’m trying to learn how they play and they’re trying to learn how I coach, and the systems that I’ve brought in. I don’t think there are any growing pains right now. It’ll be a learning experience one way or another.”

Hoff is getting thrown into the proverbial fire

to start the season as the Hilltoppers opened Friday, Nov. 11, against defending state champion Warroad, followed by Breck, Edina and Holy Angels.

That’ll be a test, but there isn’t a test Hoff hasn’t passed.

“Oh, man, I can’t even tell you. Her future’s so bright,” Boettcher said. “This was the perfect opportunity for her to get her feet on the ground and start coaching. It’s special when you’re just starting your coaching career and you get to be the head varsity coach. I think we’re going to help her learn just as much as she helps us. She’s going to be an amazing coach. I hope she stays at Marshall as long as she can, but I think she’s capable of really high levels.”

“There is a lot of excitement and positive energy around this new season for the program,” Randall said. “We are looking forward to making our mark on the conference and growing our program in a positive direction one day at a time.”

- Jon Nowacki, News Tribune

DULUTH NORTHERN STARS

2022-23 SCHEDULE

(home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 12 — ROSEVILLE/MAHTOMEDI

Nov. 18 — at Anoka

Nov. 19 — at Edina

Nov. 26 — at Hastings, 2 p.m.

Nov. 29 — PRINCETON, 7 p.m.

Dec. 2 — at Brainerd/Little Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 5 — NORTHERN TIER, 7 p.m.

Dec. 10 — at Duluth Marshall, 4 p.m.

Dec. 13 — at Cloquet-Esko-Carlton, 7 p.m.

Dec. 15 — at Moose Lake Area, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 20 — at Grand Rapids/Greenway, 7 p.m.

Dec. 22 — ELK RIVER/ZIMMERMAN, 7 p.m.

Dec. 31 — Proctor/Hermantown (outdoors), 3 p.m.

Jan. 3 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, 7 p.m.

Jan. 10 — at Burnsville, 7 p.m.

Jan. 12 — CLOQUET-ESKO-CARLTON, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 13 — FOREST LAKE, 7 p.m.

Jan. 24 — SUPERIOR, 7 p.m.

Jan. 26 — at North St. Paul/Tartan, 7 p.m.

Jan. 28 — DODGE COUNTY, 2 p.m.

Jan. 30 — GRAND RAPIDS/GREENWAY, 7 p.m.

Feb. 3 — at Princeton, 7 p.m.

DULUTH NORTHERN STARS ROSTER

2 Carys Gerard F So.

3 Alana Moline D Sr.

4 Nia Kramer F So.

5 Karyssa Clough D Jr.

8 Autumn Turpen D So.

9 Adell Wormuth F Jr.

10 Mae McCall F Fr.

12 Jenne Horvat F Sr.

14 Bailey Coole D Sr.

15 Rylan Lorenz F Sr.

16 Gracyn Schipper F So.

18 Ellie Marciniak F Jr.

20 Lucy Fellman D Jr.

23 Lydia Saxin F Jr.

26 Grace Karakas F Jr.

35 Ella Brisbois G Jr.

Duluth Marshall Hilltoppers

DULUTH MARSHALL HILLTOPPERS

2022-23 SCHEDULE

(home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 11 — WARROAD

Nov. 12 — at Breck

Nov. 18 — at Edina

Nov. 19 — at Holy Angels

Nov. 29 — NORTH SHORE, 7 p.m.

Dec. 1 — at Superior, 7 p.m.

Dec. 3 — at Brainerd/Little Falls, 3 p.m.

Dec. 6 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 10 — DULUTH

Dec. 15 — at Proctor/Hermantown, 7 p.m.

Dec. 16 — at Pine City Area, 7 p.m.

Dec. 20 — at North Shore, 7 p.m.

Dec. 26 — Marshall, 1:30 p.m.

Dec. 27 — Super Rink tournament, TBD

Dec. 28 — Super Rink tournament, TBD

Jan. 3 — CLOQUET-ESKO-CARLTON, 7 p.m.

Jan. 5 — at Rock Ridge, 7 p.m.

Jan. 7 — at Bemidji, 2 p.m.

Jan. 10 — GRAND RAPIDS/GREENWAY, 7 p.m.

Jan. 12 — MOOSE LAKE AREA, 7 p.m.

Jan. 14 — INTERNATIONAL FALLS, 3 p.m.

Jan. 19 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, 7 p.m.

FIVE GAMES TO WATCH

Duluth Marshall at Proctor/Hermantown

7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15

This matchup in Hermantown — the only one between them during the regular season, at least — is a rematch of the last two Section 7A championship games, both won by Proctor/Hermantown. The Mirage won 6-0 in 2021 in Proctor en route to a 21-0 record and the program’s first state title. The Mirage won 3-0 last February in Virginia en route to a runner-up finish at the state tournament. Of course, you don’t have to tell the Hilltoppers twice. “We’ve been knocking at the door every year,” Duluth Marshall senior Meredith Boethcher said. “I think it’ll come down to how bad the girls want it, and I know that all the girls that we have want it.”

Moose Lake Area at Cloquet/Esko/Carlton

7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15

GOODLUCK HILLTOPPERS!

Head coach: Callie Hoff, first season 2021-22 record: 17-8 Conference: Lake Superior Section: 7A

Key departures: F Annika Lindgren (12-40—52), F Kendra Royer (6-11—17)

Key returners: Jr. F Ilsa Lindaman (34-21—55), Sr. F Meredith Boettcher (13-21—34), So. F Nina Thorson (15-12—27), Sr. F Danica Mark (9-11—20), Jr. G Chloe Clark (6-5, 2.91 GAA, .901 save percentage), So. G Ray Anderson (11-3, 1.73 GAA, .918 save percentage, four shutouts)

Newcomer to watch: Fr. D Sarah Stauber

Outlook: The Hilltoppers lost 11 skaters from last season, but the returners are all ready to fill bigger roles. Lindaman, a Duluth News Tribune All-Area First Team selection, and fellow center Danica Mark, as well as the versatile Meredith Boettcher, will serve as captains.

“We have a big test to start the season, but I know those girls are ready to lead the team,” Hoff said. “They’ll be ready.”

The Hilltoppers started their season playing four very strong ranked teams, including Warroad, the defending Class A champions, on Nov. 11, followed by Breck, Edina and Holy Angels. “These games will help prepare us for very competitive Section 7A competition,” Hoff said. That includes the likes of her alma mater, Proctor/Hermantown, Cloquet/ Esko-Carlton, Moose Lake Area and Hibbing/ Chisholm. Duluth Marshall checks in at No. 6 in the Let’s Play Hockey Class A preseason poll, with Proctor/Hermantown, the two-time defending section champions, sitting at No. 3.

“Within Section 7A, they’re always the team to beat,” Hoff said of the Mirage. “We’re excited to play them but the goal is always to focus on our next game.”

- Jon Nowacki, News Tribune

Northwoods Credit Union Arena in Cloquet will be the host site for the latest chapter in this budding rivalry. The Lumberjacks have a new coach in former assistant Kennedy Houge. Moose Lake Area, meanwhile, has become a very solid program under coach Reilly Fawcett, the 2014 News Tribune All-Area Player of the Year, and last year played a very tight game with Fawcett’s old team, Proctor/Hermantown. Cloquet/Esko/Carlton and Moose Lake Area are also scheduled to meet Tuesday, Nov. 22, at Riverside Arena in Moose Lake.

Duluth at Duluth Marshall

4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10

Mars Lakeview Arena is the location for this Saturday matinee, the one and only meeting between the programs this season. Both teams are fed by the Duluth youth program, the Duluth Icebreakers, and are natural rivals. And both have new coaches, with Ali Randall heading up the Northern Stars and Callie Hoff leading the Hilltoppers. It’s one of those matchups where pretty much everybody knows everybody.

Proctor/Hermantown at Grand Rapids/Greenway

7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8

This matchup at IRA Civic Center in Grand Rapids, the only meeting between the programs this season, often pits the best of the Twin Ports against the best of the Iron Range. It’s not lacking in star power, either. Proctor/ Hermantown is deep with the likes of senior forward Nya Sieger (21-30—50) and junior forward Izy Fairchild (28-14—42). The Lightning counters with sophomore forward Mercury Bischoff (49-25—74) and senior forward/center Kalle Reed (17-28—45). Let the sparks fly.

Rock Ridge at Hibbing/Chisholm

7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10

This contest in Hibbing will be a rematch of their opener Tuesday, Nov. 15, at the Eveleth Hippodrome. Rock Ridge has a new coach in former Minnesota Duluth goalie Paddy (Sautter) Elsmore. Hibbing/Chisholm has cagey veteran Pete Hyduke, who is approaching a halfcentury of coaching. Oh, and Hyduke recently got elected mayor of Hibbing.

“Moving forward I have to really keep a good schedule,” Hyduke said. “I still love every minute of coaching. Working with kids really keeps you young at heart. I also have a very understanding wife and my daughter Kristen is one of my assistants. It’s really been a family affair.”

of

during a Section 7A semifinals game on Feb. 12 at Iron Trail Motors Event Center in Virginia.

Jake Przytarski / Cloquet Pine Journal

Grand Rapids/Greenway Lightning

Head coach: Brad Hyduke, 13th season

2021-22 record: 18-9

Conference: Lake Superior

Section: 7AA

Key departures: G Makenzie Cole (18-9, 1.71 GAA, .923 save percentage); Cole is now at St. Scholastica

Key returners: So. F Mercury Bischoff (49-25—74), sr. F/C Kalle Reed (17-28—45), jr. F Molly Pierce (12-28—40), fr. F/C Kylie DeBay (117—18), so. F (Mira Rajala 4-5—9), sr. D Jazzy Bischoff (2-21—23), jr. D Allie LeClaire (2-11—13), jr. D Cali Madsen (1-5—6)

Newcomers to watch: Sophomore forward Ryleigh Sherlock should have an impact after getting called up from the U-15 team. Senior forward Reanna Smith is back after transferring from

Warroad, where she had 20 points as a sophomore on the Warriors’ statetournament team. She’ll be out the first half of the year due to injury.

Outlook: The Lightning return almost all their forwards and scoring from last season, including prolific playmaker Mercury Bischoff, and all but one defenseman. What had been a relatively young group is now a veteran group with potential to have another quality season. Last year the team earned the No. 2 seed in Section 7AA, behind top-seeded Andover, which went undefeated en route to the big-school state championship. All eyes will be on the goaltending competition as there is a three-way battle for playing time. Development and consistent play between the pipes will be key.

- Jon Nowacki, News Tribune

GRAND RAPIDS/GREENWAY

LIGHTNING 2022-23 SCHEDULE

(home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 15 — BEMIDJI

Nov. 18 — at St. Cloud

Nov. 19 — at Rogers

Nov. 25 — WHITE BEAR LAKE

Nov. 26 — BLAINE, 1 p.m.

Nov. 29 — at Cloquet/Esko/Carlton, 7 p.m.

Dec. 3 — SHAKOPEE, 1 p.m.

Dec. 6 — at Rock Ridge, 7 p.m.

Dec. 8 — PROCTOR/HERMANTOWN

Dec. 16 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, 7 p.m.

Dec. 20 — DULUTH (in Coleraine), 7 p.m.

Dec. 26 — at Edina (Walser Tourney), 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 27 — TBD, at Walser Tourney, Edina

Dec. 28 — TBD, at Walser Tourney, Edina

Jan. 3 — at Brainerd/Little Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 6 — NORTHERN TIER, 7 p.m.

Jan. 10 — at Duluth Marshall, 7 p.m.

Jan. 13 — ELK RIVER/ZIMMERMAN, 7 p.m.

Jan. 14 — FOREST LAKE, 2 p.m.

Jan. 17 — at Superior, 7 p.m.

Jan. 19 — at Bemidji, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 20 — at Andover, 7 p.m.

Jan. 27 — ALEXANDRIA, 7 p.m.

Jan. 30 — at Duluth (Heritage)

Feb. 3 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, 7 p.m.

GRAND RAPIDS/GREENWAY LIGHTNING ROSTER

1 Riley Toivonen G Jr.

2 Morgan Carsrud D So.

3 Hannah LaFrenier F|D Sr.

4 Taelyn Pomplun F Jr.

5 Cali Madsen D Jr.

6 Kalle Reed F Sr.

7 Allie LeClaire D Jr.

8 Kylie DeBay F 8th Fr.

9 Emma Seeley F Sr.

10 Reanna Smith F Sr.

11 Emma Moran F So.

12 Mercury Bischoff F So.

15 Ryleigh Sherlock F So.

16 Mira Rajala F So.

17 Abby Skelly F So.

19 Nina Hofstad D So.

20 Maisie Basder D So.

21 Molly Pierce F Jr.

22 Jazzy Bischoff D Sr.

30 Samantha Baratto G Sr.

31 Claire Tobeck G Fr.

Hibbing/Chisholm Bluejackets

HIBBING/CHISHOLM BLUEJACKETS

2022-23 SCHEDULE

(home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 15 — at Rock Ridge

Nov. 19 — MINNEAPOLIS

Nov. 22 — at North Shore

Nov. 29 — INTERNATIONAL FALLS, 7 p.m.

Dec. 1 — NORTHERN LAKES, 7 p.m.

Dec. 6 — DULUTH MARSHALL, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 8 — CLOQUET-ESKO-CARLTON, 7 p.m.

Dec. 13 — at Proctor/Hermantown, 7 p.m.

Dec. 16 — at Grand Rapids/Greenway, 7 p.m.

Dec. 20 — MOOSE LAKE AREA, 7 p.m.

Dec. 26 — at South St. Paul, 7:45 p.m.

Jan. 3 — DULUTH, 7 p.m.

Jan. 5 — at Superior, 7 p.m.

Jan. 9 — at Moose Lake Area, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 10 — ROCK RIDGE, 7 p.m.

Jan. 13 — PROCTOR/HERMANTOWN, 7 p.m.

Jan. 17 — at Cloquet-Esko-Carlton, 7 p.m.

Jan. 19 — at Duluth Marshall, 7 p.m.

Jan. 24 — NORTH SHORE, 7p.m.

Jan. 26 — at Duluth, 7 p.m.

Feb. 3 — GRAND RAPIDS/GREENWAY, 7 p.m.

Head coach: Pete Hyduke, 19th season (23rd with girls program, 47 years coaching overall)

2021-22 record: 12-13-2

Conference: Lake Superior

Section: 7A

Key departures: F Megan Bussey (12-13—25), F Julia Gherardi (15-9—24), D Annika Lundell (6-12—18)

Key returners: G Addison Hess (2.46 GAA, .913 save percentage, 2 shutouts), F Aune Boben (15-17—32), F Claire Rewertz (9-12—21), D Abigail Sullivan (7-12—19), F Panella Rewertz (3-11—14), D Kendal Gustavsson (1-7—8), D Monroe Rewertz (2-6—8)

Outlook: The Bluejackets graduated a good group of seniors who led the team for years but are fortunate to have a group of six upperclassmen who are ready to take the lead this year.

“We should be strong in the

nets this year, and we’ll build this team from the net out,” Hyduke said.

Hyduke expects a lot of competition during the season to fill out the final roster spots.

“We’re in the toughest Class A section in the state, so this is a team that will need to pride itself on working hard in all zones of the ice, starting with our defensive end,” Hyduke said.

Section 7A was strong before, and most of the teams are expecting to be up this year. Something will have to give.

“With the schedule we play, success will not be determined by the wins and losses during the season but will be determined by the growth throughout the season preparing us for sections,” Hyduke said. “My coaching staff and I are excited to watch the growth of this year’s team.”

- Jon Nowacki, News Tribune

Moose Lake Area Rebels

Head coach: Reilly Fawcett, third season

2021-22 record: 18-7-1

Conference: Independent Section: 7A

Key departures: Gabby Gamst (1314—27), Raechel Painovich (7-19—26 pts), Julia Juszcak (3-8—11)

Key returners: Forwards Sandra Ribich (14-22—36), Megan Hattenberger (1713—30) and Gracie Hartl (17G, 6A, 23 pts), defensemen Hallie Klavu (13-21—34) and Jorja Jusczak (5-8—13) and goalie Mallory Hartl (1,337 game minutes, .938 save percentage)

Outlook: “Our expectations for this year is to be the hardest working team on the ice,” said Fawcett, the 2014 News Tribune All-Area Player of the Year. “We know that we might not be the most

skilled team, but hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard. One goal that we have is to make it to the section final this year, but we have to focus on one practice at a time and one game at a time.”

Fawcett said it’s a tough section with the likes of her high school program, Proctor/Hermantown, as well as Duluth Marshall, Hibbing/Chisholm and Cloquet/ Esko/Carlton. She said the Friday, Nov. 11 opener against Breck would set the tone for the season.

“We are looking to get redemption this year,” Fawcett said. “Our girls were extremely dedicated this summer and it has shown in these first couple weeks of practice. We also wanted a tougher schedule to prepare us for the playoffs. We’re determined to have a good season.”

- Jon Nowacki, News Tribune

MOOSE LAKE AREA REBELS

2022-23 SCHEDULE

(home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 11 — at Breck, 7 p.m.

Nov. 15 — at Hopkins/St. Louis Park, 7 p.m.

Nov. 18 — MINNEAPOLIS, 7:30 P.M.

Nov. 19 — LITCHFIELD/DASSEL-COKATO, 3 p.m.

Nov. 22 — CLOQUET/ESKO/CARLTON, 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 29 — at Rock Ridge, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 1 — NORTH SHORE, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 6 — at Two Rivers, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 13 — CHISAGO LAKES, 2 p.m.

Dec. 15 — DULUTH, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 17 — at Minnehaha United, TBD

Dec. 20 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, 7 p.m.

Dec. 23 — at Simley, 7 p.m.

Jan. 3 — at Proctor/Hermantown, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 5 — at Cloquet/Esko/Carlton, 7 p.m.

Jan. 6 — at North Shore, 7 p.m.

Jan. 9 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 12 — at Duluth Marshall, 7 p.m.

Jan. 13 — at Gentry, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 17 — NORTHERN LAKES, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 19 — ST. FRANCIS, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 21 — at Hayward, 2:30 p.m.

Jan. 24 — MINNEHAHA UNITED, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 26 — DULUTH MARSHALL, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 27 — DODGE COUNTY, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 2 — PINE CITY, 7:30 p.m.

4

5

11

2 Chelbi Hanson F So.

3 Madilyn Balut D So.

Reese Nordstrom F 7th

Megan Hattenberger F Jr.

6 Gracie Hartl F Jr.

7 Jorja Jusczak D Jr.

10 Lily Ludwig F So.

Lily Kahara D Jr.

13 Hallie Klavu D So.

14 Mackenzie Hoffmann F So.

15 Autumn Painovich F 8th

17 Jenna Jusczak F/D 8th

18 Gracie Gamst F Jr.

20 Aila Oswald D So.

21 Sandra Ribich F So.

23 Malea Jerry G Jr.

28 Mallory Hartl G So.

Hibbing’s Heidi Rasch (10) and Proctor/Hermantown’s Ember Kehtel (11) both reach for the puck in the second period of the game Jan. 14 at the St. Luke’s Events Center in Proctor. Jed Carlson / Superior Telegram

Bianca McGiffert (26) of Duluth Marshall and Gracie Hartl (6) of Moose Lake Area compete for the puck on Jan. 27 at Mars Lakeview Arena in Duluth.

Clint Austin / Duluth News Tribune

HIBBING/CHISHOLM ROSTER

MOOSE LAKE AREA REBELS ROSTER

Nov.

Nov.

Nov.

Nov.

Dec. 1 — at Moose Lake Area, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 3 — at Pine City Area, 2 p.m.

Dec. 6 — at Cloquet-Esko-Carlton, 7 p.m.

Dec. 13 — at Superior, 5 p.m.

Dec. 16 — NORTHERN LAKES (SB), 7 p.m.

Dec. 20 — DULUTH MARSHALL (SB), 7 p.m.

Dec. 22 — PRINCETON (TH), 7 p.m.

Dec. 26 — Western Wisconsin (at Blaine), 4:15 p.m.

Jan. 6 — MOOSE LAKE AREA (SB), 7 p.m.

Jan. 7 — DETROIT LAKES (TH), 6 p.m.

Jan. 12 — at International Falls, 7 p.m.

Jan. 14 — HAYWARD (TH), 1 p.m.

Jan. 17 — ROCK RIDGE (TH), 7 p.m.

Jan. 20 — at Princeton, 7 p.m.

Jan. 24 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, 7 p.m.

Jan. 27 — PINE CITY AREA (TH), TBD

Jan. 30 — CLOQUET-ESKO-CARLTON (TH), 7 p.m.

Feb. 3 — at Rock Ridge, 7 p.m.

North Shore’s Brooke Velcheff passes the puck during a game against Duluth Marshall in the 2021-22 season.

Lisa Malcomb / For the News Tribune

NORTH SHORE STORM ROSTER

2 Lily Benvie D Jr.

4 Sierra Geatz F/D 8th

5 Brooke Velcheff F Jr.

6 Libby Althaus D Sr.

7 Natalie Larson F Jr.

8 Berkley Hoff F 8th

9 Reese Costley C 8th

10 Hayden Bright F 8th

11 Kinsey Komarek C/F Jr.

12 Marlee Hogenson D So.

13 Bree Torgerson F Jr.

15 Katie Carpenter C Jr.

16 Hope Ernest F Sr.

17 Jocelyn Seagren F Jr.

18 Addison Bentler D So.

19 Stella LaPointe D 8th

20 Ella Peterson C/F Fr.

35 Harper Powell G Jr.

North Shore Storm

Head coach: Zach Vieau, sixth season

2021-22 record: 7-19

Conference: Independent Section: 7A

Key departures: F/D Livia Hoff (9-15—24), now at Concordia-Moorhead

Key returners: Sr. F Hope Ernest (12-10—24), Jr. F Katie

Carpenter (4-14—18), Jr. D Lily Benvie (5-12—17)

Newcomer to watch: eighthgrade center Reese Costley Outlook: “Knock on wood, we should have our most successful season in years,” Vieau said. “We have a large amount of young new talent that will contribute to our team as well as a ton of returning

players who have a few years of varsity under their belts along with a strong junior in net.”

Vieau is expecting goalie Harper Powell, forward Hope Ernest, defensemen Lily Benvie and forward Berkley Hoff to be among the area’s better players this season.

- Jon Nowacki, News Tribune

Go Mirage

Proctor/Hermantown Mirage

Head coach: Emma Stauber, fourth season

2021-22 record: 21-8-1

Conference: Lake Superior Section: 7A

are now focusing our attention on this year with the strength and experience we gained from our season last year.”

PROCTOR/HERMANTOWN MIRAGE

2022-23 SCHEDULE

(home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 11 — ROSEVILLE/MAHTOMEDI (P)

Nov. 12 — WARROAD (P)

Nov. 18 — BLOOMINGTON JEFFERSON (P)

Nov. 19 — SOUTH ST. PAUL (H)

Nov. 26 — at Metro-South, 7 p.m.

Dec. 2 — at Champlin Park/Coon Rapids, 7 p.m.

Dec. 10 — at Orono, 1 p.m.

Dec. 13 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM (H), 7 p.m.

Dec. 15 — DULUTH MARSHALL, 7 p.m.

Dec. 17 — at Benilde-St. Margaret’s, 2:15 p.m.

PROCTOR/HERMANTOWN MIRAGE ROSTER

1 Neelah McLeod G So.

2 Karlee Gilbertson F/D Jr.

3 Ella Rothe F So.

4 Nya Sieger F Sr.

5 Hailey Jussila F Jr.

6 Hannah Graves F Jr.

7 Reagan Zywicki F Jr.

Dec. 26 — Crookston, 5:30 p.m.

Dec. 27 — at Warroad, 8 p.m.

Dec. 31 — at Duluth (outdoors), 3 p.m.

Jan. 3 — MOOSE LAKE AREA, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 7 — at Andover, 2 p.m.

Jan. 12 — at Chisago Lakes, 6 p.m.

Jan. 13 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, 7 p.m.

Jan. 14 — BRECK (P), 1:30 p.m.

Jan. 19 — at Edina, 7 p.m.

Jan. 26 — EDEN PRAIRIE (H), 7 p.m.

Jan. 27 — at Hill-Murray, 7 p.m.

Jan. 30 — SUPERIOR (P), 7 p.m.

Feb. 4 — at Mound Westonka/SWC, 3 p.m.

15 Alyssa Yokom D Sr.

16 Ayla Milbridge F So.

17 Addi Hieb F

8 Anika Burke F Jr.

9 Kailyn Morin F So.

10 Natalie Berg F Sr.

11 Rylee Kalkbrenner D Fr.

12 Morgan LaValley D Jr.

13 Natalya Hooey F Sr.

14 Katie Sandelin D Jr.

Superior Spartans

Head coach: Doug Trentor, third season

2021-22 record: 8-17

Conference: Lake Superior

Section: Wisconsin Sectional 1

Key departures: Callie Holmlund, Lily Walrath, Emily Berka, Gabrielle Siers, Keely Morehouse

SUPERIOR SPARTANS ROSTER

Key departures: G Abby Pajari (News Tribune All-Area Player of the Year, 20-8-1, 1.43 GAA, .939 save percentage, six shutouts), F Ember Kehtel (5-17—22), F Rylee Gilbertson (8-18—26)

Key returners: Sr. F Nya Sieger (21-30—50), Jr. F Izy Fairchild

(28-14—42), Jr. F Hannah Graves (16-12—28), Sr. F Reese Heitzman (13-13—26), So. F Jane Eckstom

(8-13—21), Sr. D Sophie Parendo

(1-8—9), Sr. D Ava Anick (2-11—

13), Sr. D Alyssa Yokom (1-4—5)

Outlook: The Mirage are coming off a runner-up finish in Class A, and for most programs, that’d be the pinnacle, but the 2021 state champs have high goals as a program. They were disappointed in last year’s 6-1 loss to Warroad in the Class A title game.

“Our team has a very positive outlook despite our finish last year,” Stauber said. “We have reset and

Key returners: Autumn Cooper, Bella Thompson, Emma Ferg, Kenlyn Thimm, Indigo Fish, Grace Hansen, Brooke Lindberg, Katie Stamper, Kennedy Popplewell, Gabryel Olson, Alivia Visger, Kaylie Nault

Newcomers to watch: So. F Makaela Reinke and Fr. F Addie Benson

Outlook: “The outlook for this year’s squad is extremely positive,” according to coach Trentor. “The

SUPERIOR SPARTANS

(home games in ALL CAPS)

2022-23 SCHEDULE

Nov. 19 — NORTHERN TIER

Nov. 22 — CFM SABERS

Dec. 1 — DULUTH MARSHALL, 7 p.m.

Dec. 3 — at Eau Claire Area, 1 p.m.

Dec. 10 — ST. CROIX VALLEY, 6 p.m.

Dec. 13 — NORTH SHORE, 5 P.M.

Dec. 16 — WESTERN WISCONSIN, 7 p.m.

Dec. 17 — SARTELL/SAUK RAPIDS, 1 p.m.

Dec. 20 — ROCK RIDGE, 7 p.m.

Dec. 22 — at Hayward Area, 7 p.m.

Dec. 28 — at Cap City Cougars (Madison Holiday Tourney), 5:15 PM

Dec. 29 — TBD, Madison Holiday Tourney

Dec. 30 — TBD, Madison Holiday Tourney

Jan. 5 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM, 7 p.m.

Jan. 7 — MEDFORD, 2 p.m.

Jan. 10 — at Cloquet/Esko/Carlton, 7 p.m.

Jan. 14 — at Hudson, 3 p.m.

Jan. 17 — GRAND RAPIDS/GREENWAY, 7 p.m.

Jan. 20 — NORTHERN EDGE, 7 p.m.

Jan. 21 — NORTHLAND PINES, 2 p.m.

Jan. 24 — at Duluth, 7 p.m.

Jan. 27 — at Western Wisconsin, 7 p.m.

Jan. 30 — at Proctor/Hermantown, 7 p.m.

Feb. 4 — at Central Wisconsin, 2 p.m.

The biggest question will be at goalie, where sophomore Neelah McLeod and freshmen Lillian Clemons and Suri Langley will compete for time between the pipes. They will have plenty of help around them. Proctor/Hermantown only lost three forwards, including two that saw consistent varsity shifts, and no defensemen.

Sieger and Heitzman will serve as captains and Parendo and Anick as assistant captains.

“We have strong depth both offensively and defensively, which hopefully will play to our advantage this season,” Stauber said. “We have a tough schedule lined up, especially into January with many top Class AA teams that we feel will prepare us for playoffs. We are optimistic and look forward to continuing to build on our success of the past few seasons.”

- Jon Nowacki, News Tribune

girls, coaching staff, parents, and community are ready and excited to get this season started.”

The Spartans are bringing back talented leadership to go along with talented and motivated underclassmen. Many play other sports and/or hockey together in the offseason and Trentor sees that as a positive, all the way.

“That allows them to start the season in shape and ready to roll,” he said. “The girls are friends off the ice, so we have a true sense of unity. Our schedule remains difficult, by design, but we feel that’s a part of what makes us better.”

- Jon Nowacki, News Tribune

Rock Ridge Wolverines

ROCK RIDGE WOLVERINES 2022-23 SCHEDULE

(home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 11 — at Two Rivers/St. Paul

Nov. 12 — at Princeton

Nov. 15 — HIBBING/CHISHOLM (E)

Nov. 22 — at Northern Lakes

Nov. 26 — at Sartell/Sauk Rapids, 11 a.m.

Nov. 29 — MOOSE LAKE AREA (E), 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 2 — PRINCETON (E), 7 p.m.

Dec. 6 — GRAND RAPIDS/GREENWAY (E), 7 p.m.

Dec. 9 — at Crookston, 7 p.m.

Dec. 10 — at Detroit Lakes, 1 p.m.

Dec. 15 — INTERNATIONAL FALLS (V), 7 p.m.

Dec. 17 — DODGE COUNTY (E), 2 p.m.

Dec. 20 — at Superior, 7 p.m.

Dec. 22 — CHISAGO LAKES (V), 7 p.m.

Dec. 27 — LITCHFIELD/DASSEL-COKATO (V), 7 p.m.

Jan. 5 — DULUTH MARSHALL (V), 7 p.m.

Jan. 10 — at Hibbing/Chisholm, 7 p.m.

Jan. 13 — FORT FRANCES (V), 7 p.m.

Jan. 17 — at North Shore, 7 p.m.

Jan. 21 — PINE CITY AREA (E), 2 p.m.

Jan. 24 — at Cloquet-Esko-Carlton, 7 p.m.

Feb. 3 — NORTH SHORE (V), 7 p.m.

Head coach: Patricia “Paddy” Elsmore, first season

2021-22 record: 7-17

Conference: Independent

Section: 7A

Key departures: D Jennie Krause (5-11— 16), F Kaitlyn James (3-1—4), F Kylie Baranzelli (14-10—24)

Key returners: So. F Natalie Bergman (118—19), Fr. F Ayla Troutwine (9-7—16), Sr. D/F Maggie Koskela (2-5—7)

Newcomer to watch: So. F Gabby Hutar

Outlook: Elsmore said the Wolverines are looking forward to an exciting season with a lot of young players eager to learn.

“Our team is very young and energetic,” she said. “We have a strong leadership group and worked extremely hard during the offseason. This is a competitive group with lots of potential. We are looking forward to seeing the growth throughout the season, with a lot of travel early in the season. We’re eager to start.”

- Jon Nowacki, News Tribune