NAHL SHOWCASE ISSUE - SEPT. 2025

Inside Minnesota Hockey

Minnesota Hockey, an affiliate of USA Hockey, is the governing body of youth and amateur hockey in Minnesota and the premier developer of hockey players in the state. With over 67,000 registered players and coaches, it is the largest state governing body for amateur hockey in the United States.

You can be successful where you are 1-on-1 with Mound native Liz Schepers

Liz Schepers has a knack for game-winners. Not just game-winners, but title-winners.

The Mound native clinched the Walter Cup for the Minnesota Frost in back-to-back seasons, most recently in a 2-1 overtime thriller against the Ottawa Charge.

“Pressure is a privilege,” Schepers explained. “So I wouldn’t say I felt the pressure in a negative way, but was more honored to be trusted on the ice in those situations.

“I’m just happy I could help the team win.”

We caught up with the two-time Cup champ as she heads into the offseason about growing up in Minnesota, small towns and big victories.

Minnesota Hockey: First things first, congratulations on adding another ring – is there any room in that trophy case of yours?

Liz Schepers: (Laughs) I’ve got quite a few rings now, which is pretty cool. I’ve got them all at my place; two WCHA tournaments, NCAA National Championship (with Ohio State in 2022) and now two Walter Cups, so it’s been a crazy couple of years.

They’re all special in their own kind of ways. I think I have stories from each of those seasons and in each of those runs that makes them unique or significant in different ways.

MH: Let’s go back to youth hockey. You played at Mound. How much did that community play a role in where you are today?

Schepers: It played a huge role. I was so lucky to grow up in Minnesota and being able to play at home with my friends for so long. I played for Mound from the time I was 5 years old until I graduated high school. So that’s a huge part of who I am, and the opportunities

I’ve gotten. Now, just being able to reconnect with the girls and the community since being back in Minnesota, and reintegrate into that program has been really special.

MH: There’s just something special about those small-town hockey communities in Minnesota...

Schepers: It really is. I think coming from a smaller school in a smaller town, you always hear about people leaving and going to private schools or trying to find their way into other programs. But you know what, you can be successful exactly where you are if you surround yourself with the right people and are really committed to it.

One of my favorite sayings is, “Bloom where you’re planted.” It’s true. You don’t have to be looking for something bigger and better. You can make it wherever you want to go.

MH: What kept you grounded during those times you might have been

tempted to “go bigger?”

Schepers: My family for sure. I had people that were close to me that left for different schools, but it was never anything that interested me or my family. It was always very simple: this is where you go to school, this is where you grow up, this is where you play. And I had a really great group of girls around me where we kind of stuck together through it all. And it made my experience that much more rewarding when we did have success, to look around and see you did it with the people that you really cared about.

MH: I bet you’re still in touch with those teammates.

Schepers: Oh, yeah. My phone was blowing up after we won (the Walter Cup) again. It was really cool.

MH: Were they asking how you managed to score the championship winners in both years?

Schepers: (Laughs) It’s pretty cra-

zy. I’m really lucky to be on a team that has the depth that we have, because I do think that just sets us apart the last two years on these championship runs and obviously provides me and my linemates the opportunity to impact the games. I’m just really lucky to play in big moments all growing up and through my college experience. I think that experience helps and gets me in a better mindset going into those games with the confidence to make plays.

MH: Final parting words to other players in those big moments?

Schepers: There’s 25 of you feeling the same thing. Sure, we might feel the pressure as individuals, but it’s a team. At the end of the day, it’s a team sport. And nobody can go out there and do it by themselves. So, know that in the good moments, and in the bad, people are going to have your back. Believe in yourself and trust in the team and it will all work out.

Golden Gophers set to play in HOF game

Minnesota will travel to Denver for annual classic

DENVER, Colo. – The University of Denver Hockey program announced the date and time of the 2025 U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game, as the Pioneers will face the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers at Ball Arena on Saturday, Nov. 29, at 7 p.m. MT.

Tickets for the 2025 U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame game start at around $35 and are on sale to the public at Ticketmaster.com.

DU and UM’s matchup is set to

be the nightcap of a back-to-back, post-Thanksgiving feast of hockey in downtown Denver, as the NHL’s Colorado Avalanche and Montreal Canadiens will square off earlier on that Saturday at 1 p.m. MT at Ball Arena. The Avalanche will play at the Minnesota Wild the previous day on Friday, Nov. 28.

The Pioneers are set to play in their second regular-season game at Ball Arena, as DU defeated in-state rival Colorado College 2-0 at the arena

on Jan. 27, 2023, in front of a crowd of 17,952 – the highest attended indoor hockey game in the state of Colorado in DU history.

Denver hockey is serving as the hosts of the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game for the third time and will be playing in the contest for the fourth time. DU previously hosted the games at Magness Arena on Oct. 11, 2008, against Notre Dame (5-2 win) and Dec. 29, 2012, versus Boston University (6-0 win).

DU and UM have played against one another in the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game once before, as the Pioneers traveled to St. Paul to face the Golden Gophers at Xcel Energy Center in their inaugural participation of the event on Oct. 9, 2004 (DU lost

5-2).

Denver of the National Collegiate Hockey Conference and Minnesota of the Big Ten Conference are two of the winningest college hockey programs in the NCAA. The former league members of the Western Collegiate Hockey Association have combined for 15 national championships, own 43 Frozen Four appearances and are two of just six squads to win more than 1,600 games in their history.

The Pioneers announced their full 2025-26 schedule earlier in the summer, with the campaign beginning on Friday, Oct. 10, at Air Force before DU hosts Bentley on Saturday, Oct. 11, at Magness Arena in the home opener and Military Appreciation Night, presented by Freddy’s.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PWHL

Liz Schepers is a two-time Walter Cup winner with the Minnesota Frost.

Call for a Hall

MINNESOTA HOCKEY HALL OF FAME LAUNCHES LEGACY PROJECT CELEBRATING STATE’S STORIED HOCKEY HERITAGE

Ground

breaking planned for June 2026 with grand opening slated for May 2028

MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL, Minn.

– The Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame (MNHHOF) today announced the launch of a landmark legacy project honoring the athletes, coaches, officials, teams and contributors who have shaped the state’s unmatched hockey tradition.

Led by Chief Executive Officer Natalie Darwitz—three-time U.S. Olympian and Hockey Hall of Fame member—the Hall will serve as both a permanent tribute to Minnesota’s deep hockey roots and a dynamic hub for community connection, education and inspiration.

“Minnesota has an unrivaled amount of success and passion when it comes to hockey. This project will finally give our game the permanent home it deserves,” said Darwitz. “We’re celebrating the full journey of hockey in our state, from kids just learning the game to legends at the highest level. Every community in our state has a story worth telling.”

The MNHHOF, an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is backed by a diverse Advisory Board of some of Minnesota’s most celebrated hockey figures, an Ambassador Program featuring more than 100 men and women who have made a lasting impact on the game in Minnesota, and foundational support from the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.

“The Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame is an important legacy project that will celebrate and preserve the state’s rich hockey history for generations to come,” said Jamie Dinsmore, President and CEO of the Hockey Hall of Fame. “We’re excited to support their launch and look forward to seeing this vision come to life as a place where the stories, achievements, and people who shaped Minnesota hockey are honored.”

The MNHHOF will be more than a museum. The space will operate as a 120,000+ square-foot interactive destination. Plans include a 30,000-squarefoot museum with a Great Hall and five exhibit wings, a state-of-the-art sunken ice rink, a 20,000-square-foot performance hall, a hockey-themed restaurant and bar, and signature event spaces.

Cutting-edge technology will immerse fans in the game through 360-degree digital experiences and handson exhibits where visitors can skate, shoot and relive historic moments.

Beyond preserving history, the Hall will focus on growing the game through grassroots development programs,

traveling exhibits, youth education initiatives and an Ambassador Program projected to feature 250-plus Minnesotaborn or developed individuals over the next 12 months.

“This project is long overdue, and I’m thrilled to be part of this exciting announcement,” said hockey legend Lou Nanne. “In my decades-long career in the game of hockey, I think I will know nearly every single individual who will be honored here. It’s an incredible way to recognize the people and stories that make Minnesota hockey so unique and deserving of this kind of permanent home.”

The MNHHOF plans to break ground in June 2026 with a grand opening in May 2028, positioning it as a premier tourism and cultural destination in the Twin Cities and beyond.

What local hockey icons are saying about the project:

David Backes

“I’m thrilled to see the Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame become a reality. Hockey is such a big part of our state’s identity, and this will be a place where fans young and old can celebrate the game’s history and the people who helped shape it. I have no doubt it’ll be one of the most popular stops for anyone who loves hockey.”

Keith Ballard

“Growing up in Baudette, hockey was everything. I was fortunate to play at every level here in Minnesota, always with friends and family supporting me. Now, as I get to coach and watch my own kids play, I’m reminded of how special this game is. The Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame will honor so many deserving people while telling the story of hockey for my kids and generations to come.”

Kelly Brooks-Paradise

“I’m honored to serve as the Advisory Board Chair for the Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame and to be part of bringing this project to life. This Hall will celebrate the incredible history of hockey in Minnesota, including my dad’s legacy. I know if he were here today, he’d be so excited to see it all coming together.

Alex Goligoski

“As someone who grew up in the Minnesota hockey community, this project is so exciting. I’ve seen it at every level, from youth hockey to high school, college, and professionally. This sport is engrained in us as Minnesotans. The support and passion we have for this great sport is why we truly are the best state for hockey. The Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame will be an amazing place to celebrate what this great sport has meant for so many of us and to continue to build our bond with the greatest game on earth.”

Taylor Heise

“As someone who has played hockey in just about every state in the US, it would mean so much to have a Hockey Hall of Fame in Minnesota. I grew up playing Hockey here and couldn’t think of a better way to have done it. Minnesota is and always will be known for hockey and continues to house some of the best men’s and women’s hockey players in the world.”

Darby Hendrickson

“I grew up in a hockey family and was fortunate to live out my dream playing the game at every level in Minnesota. As my family and I work to honor my father’s legacy, I’m thrilled to see the Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame launch—a true home for the greats who have come from this state.” Page 2 of 2

Rob McClanahan

“Growing up playing high school and college hockey in Minnesota and then being a part of the 1980 Olympic team with so many fellow Minnesotans, I’ve always taken great pride in coming from a place recognized worldwide for its hockey culture. To now help shape the Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame as an Advisory Board member is an honor, and it’s exciting to be part of a true legacy project.”

Ryan McDonagh

“Being from Minnesota, hockey is ingrained in your life. The opportunities to participate and be a part of the sport are endless. The game and the entire community around it have shaped who I am. It’s exciting to see the sport honored in such a meaningful way with the Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame.”

Pat Micheletti

“To honor the great players and people for accomplishing not only the great things they have done on the ice but also off the ice in shaping our great state I think is long overdue. There are so many that we grew up wanting to be like and emulate. It’s a great time to honor those people as they paved the way for other aspiring hockey players.”

Mark Parrish

“Growing up in Minnesota and idolizing the Broten brothers, I always thought, if they can make it, maybe I can too. That’s how every kid in Minnesota feels. Our State’s rich hockey history deserves to be celebrated and told for generations to come. The Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame is long overdue, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

Krissy Wendell-Pohl

“Growing up in Minnesota playing on boys’ teams, to now watching two of my daughters win a state title, I’ve seen firsthand how far the women’s game has come. From being part of a state championship myself to winning a National Championship with the U of M, hockey has shaped so much of my life. That’s why I’m so excited to be part of the launch of the Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame. This project will not only celebrate our state’s incredible hockey history but also continue to grow the women’s game for generations to come.”

Grace Zumwinkle

“Growing up and playing hockey in Minnesota throughout youth, high school, college and now professional has always been a lifelong dream. Minnesota has produced so much national and international talent, and the talent deserves to be recognized with the Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame. I can’t think of something more memorable than to be recognized with something like this that will continue to promote the amazing individuals we have within our state.”

Top 10 NHL scorers from Minnesota

2024-25’s scoring leaders from the State of Hockey

1. Jake Guentzel

Woodbury, MN – Tampa Bay Lightning

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Once again Jake Guentzel led all Minnesotans in scoring in the NHL after posting an impressive 80-point season in his first season with Tampa Bay. Guentzel led all Minnesotans in goals with 41 and assists with 39.

At age 30, Guentzel has now played in 600 career regular season games in the NHL and has scored 268 goals and added 303 assists for 571 points, almost averaging a point per game.

Guentzel is the son of former Gopher hockey assistant coach Mike Guentzel, and was born in Omaha, Nebraska, but played youth hockey in Woodbury. He played two seasons at Hill-Murray High School, notching 75 points in 2011-12 before joining the Sioux City Musketeers of the USHL. There he had 29 goals and 44 assists in 60 games.

He played college hockey at Nebraska-Omaha and as a senior was an assistant captain and scored 19 goals and 46 points in 35 games.

He was drafted in the third round (77th overall) by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2013. He played in Pittsburgh for eight seasons and won a Stanley Cup with them in 2016-17. He has also been named to the AllStar team twice. This past season was his third 40-goal season of his career.

2. Brock Nelson

Warroad, MN – New York Islanders/ Colorado Avalanche

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Nelson, a native of Warroad, finished second in scoring amongst Minnesotans with 56 points in 80 games splitting time between the New York Islanders and the Colorado Avalanche. Nelson scored 26 goals and added 30 assists. He ranked No. 101 in the league in scoring.

The 33-year-old graduated from Warroad in 2010 where he notched 39 goals and 34 assists in 25 games as a senior. That summer he was chosen in the first round (30th overall) by the New York Islanders. He transitioned directly to the University of North Dakota where he played for two seasons before signing a pro contract. He played a season at Bridgeport in the AHL before joining the Islanders full time in 2013-14. He played parts of the next 12 seasons with the Islanders, serving as assistant captain the past four. He had three straight 30-goal seasons from 2021-2024.

This past season he was traded to Colorado late in the season. He has also been a member of Team USA in international competition. In his career, Nelson has played 920 games in 14 seasons and scored 301 goals and added 286 assists for 587 career points. If he plays a full season in 2025-26 he will surpass the 1,000-game mark, something that has been achieved by 13 other Minnesotans.

3. Anders Lee

Edina, MN – New York Islanders

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Anders Lee continues to be a consistent force for the New York Islanders and was a longtime teammate of Brock Nelson before Nelson was traded to Colorado late last season. Lee scored 29 goals this past season and added 25 assists for 54 points, ranking 106th in the league.

The 34-year-old played two seasons with Edina High School, graduating in 2009 where he scored 20 goals and added 46 assists. He was drafted that summer in the sixth round (152nd overall) by the Islanders. He played one season in the USHL for Green Bay and had 35 goals and 66 points in 59 games.

He attended the University of Notre Dame where he played three seasons before joining the Islanders late in the 2014 season. He has played 13 seasons for the Islanders and served as team captain for the past seven. He has nine seasons where he has scored 20 or more goals and has scored more than 30 once and 40 once. In his career he has played in 841 games and has 289 goals and 218 assists for 507 points.

4. Brock Boeser

Burnsville, MN – Vancouver Canucks

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Boeser had another stellar season with the Canucks, notching 25 goals and matching with 25 assists in 75 games, ranking 127th amongst NHL scorers. A native of Burnsville, Boeser played at Burnsville High School for two seasons before joining Waterloo of the USHL where he racked up 35 goals and 68 points in 57 games. He was drafted in 2015 in the first round (23rd overall) by Vancouver.

After playing two seasons at the University of North Dakota, Boeser jumped to the big club in Vancouver late in the 2017 season. This past season was his ninth with the Canucks where he has played in 554 games and scored 204 goals and added 230 assists for 434 points.

Boeser recently re-signed with he Canucks for seven years and $50.75 million. He is a six-time 20-goals scorer and had a career-high 40 goals in 2023-24.

5. Bobby Brink

Minnetonka, MN – Philadelphia Flyers

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Minnetonka native Bobby Brink finished his third season with the Flyers and finished fifth amongst Minnesotans in scoring in the NHL with 12 goals and 29 assists in 79 games.

Brink played at Minnetonka through 2018 and was part of the state championship team, and then joined the Sioux City Musketeers of the USHL as well as played in the USNDTP. In 2019 he was drafted in the second round (34th overall) by the Flyers after being named Forward of the Year in the USHL after scoring 35 goals and 68 points in 43 games.

He attended the University of Denver where he put up solid numbers and was a member of the 2022 National Championship team, scoring 57 points and becoming a Hobey Baker Award Finalist. He signed with the Flyers after the title win and played 10 games late in 2022, notching four assists. The next season he played in the AHL and had 28 points in 41 games. He played 57 games for the Flyers in 2023-24, scoring 11 goals and adding 12 assists. This past season was his first full season with the Flyers, playing in 79 games.

Brink, 23, is currently signed to a two-year, $3 million contract through next season.

6. Casey Mittelstadt

Eden Prairie, MN – Boston Bruins

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Former Mr. Hockey winner Casey Mittelstadt is with his third NHL team, having been traded to the Bruins from the Colorado Avalanche last season. Between the two clubs he played in 81 games and had 15 goals and 25 assists.

Mittelstadt was one of the top prospects to come out of Minnesota in the past decade.

After a great career at Eden Prairie High School, he was drafted No. 8 overall in the 2016 draft by the Buffalo Sabres. He went on to play at the University of Minnesota for just one season in 2017-18 before joining the Sabres late in the 2018 season. He played parts of seven seasons with the Sabres before joining Colorado where he played a season and a half before joining the Bruins this past season. At age 26, he has played in 438 NHL games and scored 81 goals and added 155 assists for 236 points. Mittelstadt is in the second year of a threeyear contract worth $17.25 million. He will be an unrestricted free agent in 2027.

7. Neal Pionk

Hermantown, MN – Winnipeg Jets

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Pionk, a native of Hermantown, is the top-scoring defenseman amongst Minnesota players with 10 goals and 29 assists this past season for the Winnipeg Jets. Pionk played two seasons at Hermantown High School and then joined the USHL in 2013-14 and played two full seasons for Sioux City, serving as captain in year two. He went on to play at the University of Minnesota-Duluth for two seasons. Undrafted, he was signed by the New York Rangers and played 28 NHL games in 2017-18. He played 73 games for the Rangers in 2018-19 and then was signed by the Winnipeg Jets for the 2019-2020 season. He has played in 536 NHL games and notched 44 goals and 212 assists for 256 points and is a +22 for his career.

8. Noah Cates

Stillwater, MN – Philadelphia Flyers

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Noah Cates went viral when he scored a spin-o-rama game winning goal against Hill-Murray in the section finals to lift the Stillwater Ponies to the state tournament. The team crashed the glass and the post-game celly became a must-see for hockey fans everywhere.

Since then Cates has done nothing but gotten better. After his career at Stillwater, he was drafted in the fifth round by the Flyers, 137th overall. He played two seasons for Omaha in the USHL and then played four years at the University of Minnesota-Duluth where he was captain his final two seasons and won a national title in 2019. He was signed by the Flyers in 2022 and played 16 games with the parent club and scored five goals and added four assists.

Cates, 26, just finished his fourth season with the Flyers and in his career has played in 235 games and has 40 goals and 62 assists.

9. Jackson Blake

Eden Prairie, MN – Carolina Hurricanes

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Blake is the youngest player to crack the top 10 in scoring for Minnesota players. At age 21 he scored 17 goals and added 17 assists in 80 games played for the Carolina Hurricanes.

Blake played two seasons at Eden Prairie High School before joining the Chicago Steel of the USHL where he put up strong numbers (61-27-50-77) in his second season there. He joined the University of North Dakota in 2022-23 and played two seasons for the Fighting Hawks with 102 points in 79 games and was named a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award in 2024.

Blake played one game for Carolina following his season at North Dakota and just finished his first full season with the Hurricanes.

10. Brady Skjei

Lakeville, MN – Nashville Predators 82GP-10G-23A-33PTS

Skjei is a native of Lakeville who spent a good portion of his amateur career in USA Hockey’s development program. He was drafted in 2012 by the New York Rangers in the first round (28th overall). He played three seasons for the University of Minnesota and made his NHL debut for the Rangers during the 2015-16 season. He played five seasons with the Rangers and then five seasons with Carolina before joining Nashville this past season, appearing in all 82 games for the Predators.

He has played in 691 NHL games and scored 78 goals and added 202 assists for 280 points.

JAKE GUENTZEL

BROCK NELSON

ANDERS LEE

BROCK BOESER

BOBBY BRINK

CASEY MITTELSTADT

NOAH CATES

JACKSON BLAKE

BRADY SKJEI

NEAL PIONK

Wheeler, Oshie leaving legacies

Both players retire as Minnesota hockey legends

by ROBERT BRENT

Two Minnesota hockey legends retired this summer with Blake Wheeler and T.J. Oshie calling it a career. Blake Wheeler, from Plymouth, and Warroad’s T.J. Oshie embodied their home state’s hockey tradition from high school rinks to the international stage.

Both were Minnesota High School State Champions, played for the United States during the Olympic games and suited up for over 1,000 NHL games.

Oshie was the first to retire, as the veteran Washington Capitals forward announced the close of his career at the Washington Harbour on June 9. The Harbour was the site of the Capitals’ Stanley Cup Celebration in 2018.

The forward retired after lingering injuries held him out of the 2024-25 season entirely.

Oshie: Warroad icon, true warrior

T.J. Oshie was born in Mount Vernon, Wash., and spent his childhood in Everett, but moved to Warroad (his father’s hometown) in 2002 and played on the high school team for three seasons. The skilled forward blossomed into an elite prospect with Warroad, winning two state titles with the team in 20022003 and 2004-2005.

Oshie attended the University of North Dakota after his high school career and was named a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award during his final collegiate season in 2007-2008.

The North Dakota product started his career with the St. Louis Blues after being drafted by the organization in the first round of the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. Oshie played a solid role during his seven-year tenure in St. Louis, but will be best-known for his time as a Washington Capital.

The Capitals acquired Oshie as the final piece in a supremely talented team that was struggling to win the Stanley Cup. Oshie ultimately helped push the Capitals to the franchise’s first Stanley Cup. Capitals General Manager Chris Patrick reflected on the change Oshie brought to the team when he came in.

“Obviously, an unbelievable career. One of the best players to play in the NHL. One of the most skilled guys I’ve ever seen in the NHL,” Patrick told The

Washington Post. “An unbelievable teammate, an unbelievable team guy… To me, he changed the trajectory of this franchise.”

The winger played a crucial role in the Capitals winning the cup, but he was also renowned for his character. Teammate Tom Wilson spoke about who Oshie was as a person in a reflection on Oshie’s career.

“I could be here all night talking about him, the character, the type of person that he is,” Wilson said. “He makes everybody in this room a better person, a better player. He’s a true warrior. He hasn’t taken a shift off in his entire career.”

Oshie had a decorated NHL career, but will perhaps be best remembered for his historic performance in the 2014 Olympic Games. Oshie famously took five consecutive shootout attempts in a preliminary game against Russia. The shootout specialist was successful on four of his six attempts and scored the game-winning goal in the eighth round.

While Oshie played his professional career in St. Louis and Washington, the forward has maintained his Minnesota roots. He founded Warroad Hockey Co., a hockey apparel company, in 2018. Now that he’s retired, Oshie and his family are moving back to Minnesota after spending the last several years in Virginia.

The Oshie’s return to Minnesota will be a boon for the local community as it welcomes back one of its favorite sons.

Oshie ended his career with 695 points in 1,010 games. He won the Stanley Cup with the Washington Capitals in 2018 and represented the United States in the 2014 Olympic Games.

Wheeler: leader, prolific playmaker

Blake Wheeler announced his retirement on July 19, 2025, after a decorated NHL career that included stops in Boston, Atlanta, Winnipeg, and New York. Wheeler called it a career after his own lingering injuries limited his ice time in recent years.

Wheeler was born in Plymouth, Minn., and first attended Wayzata High School before playing his junior and senior seasons at Breck. The forward powered Breck to a Class A State Title in 2003-2004, with Wheeler scoring 11 points in the tournament.

After his high school career, Wheeler played one season for the Green Bay Gamblers in the USHL and then attended the University of Minnesota and played with the Gophers for three seasons. The Plymouth native was named an alternate captain during his junior season.

The Phoenix Coyotes drafted Wheeler with the fifth overall pick in the 2004 draft but never came to terms with the forward. Instead, he signed with the Boston Bruins in 2008 and played in Boston for three seasons.

The Bruins traded Wheeler to the Thrashers during their final season in Atlanta. The team relocated to Winnipeg in 2011-12, and Wheeler became an integral part of the Jets after their return to Canada.

Wheeler amassed impressive numbers with two 91-point seasons in 20172018 and 2018-2019. The playmaking forward even led the league in assists with 68 during the 2017-2018 campaign. In total, Wheeler notched 812 points in 897 games with the Jets.

The former Gopher’s career also included substantial leadership experience. Wheeler was named captain of the Winnipeg Jets for the 2015-2016 season, and the team immediately significantly improved under his watch.

Wheeler captained the Jets to a Western Conference Finals appearance in 2017-2018, the deepest run of the franchise’s history. While the team did not capture the Stanley Cup, Wheeler’s

captaincy represented the most prolonged era of winning hockey for the Atlanta and Winnipeg organizations.

Jack Roslovic, a forward who was teammates with Wheeler in Winnipeg, reflected on Wheeler’s leadership during their time together in New York.

“One of the best leaders I’ve played for,” said Roslovic. “Not playing with him, I’ve thought a lot about him throughout my career, the ways that he would do things and the intensity he would bring. Only great things.”

Wheeler left Winnipeg and signed with the New York Rangers in the summer of 2023. Wheeler is Winnipeg’s career leader in points and assists.

Wheeler’s time with New York lasted only 54 games before injuries forced him to retire this summer.

The forward retired with 1,172 games and 943 points in his NHL career, second all-time in points amongst Minnesota-born players behind Hall-ofFamer Phil Housley. He also represented the United States at the 2014 Olympic Games as T.J. Oshie’s teammate.

Together, T.J. Oshie and Blake Wheeler leave behind more than just impressive stat lines; they leave a legacy that embodies the tradition of Minnesota hockey. Both players embodied the values of hard work, leadership, and community at every level. From the High School State Tournament to the Olympic Games, Oshie and Wheeler showcased what it means to represent the State of Hockey.

LPH FILE PHOTO

Blake Wheeler (left) and TJ Oshie both retired from the NHL this summer leaving behind a legacy as two of Minnesota’s greatest players.

Let’s Play Hockey Columnist

Future stars shine at Summer Showcase

Motzko gets long look at 14 Minnesotans

by ROBERT BRENT Let’s Play Hockey

Twin Cities hockey fans got an early taste of the World Juniors as the Summer Showcase wrapped up with a spotlight on intense action and top prospects from across the globe.

The exhibitions featured prospective rosters from Sweden, Finland, Canada, and the USA, with games held in Ridder Arena on the University of Minnesota campus. The USA invited 42 players to participate, led by 14 Minnesotans.

Team USA struggled to gain traction at times throughout the event, dropping three games to Sweden (twice as a split team, and once as a full squad), one game to Finland, and the finale of the event against Canada.

USA head coach and World Juniors veteran Bob Motzko spoke about the challenges of the format, especially with such a large team consisting of players who haven’t previously played together.

“It’s summer hockey, and this is an evaluation process…This is the fourth World Juniors that I’ve been able to work and I think that helps when you go through the summer process,” Motzko said. “We bring our guys in from all over the country, you have two practices, and then you go out and play.”

While every team wants to win, the World Juniors Summer Showcase is far more critical as an evaluation tool.

“The concrete starts to harden a bit in the process of watching these players and getting to know them – learning who we can trust in certain situations.” - Bob Motzko

The exhibition gives the coaching staff a chance to assess players and build familiarity.

“The concrete starts to harden a bit in the process of watching these players and getting to know them – learning who we can trust in certain situations. Obviously, the top players that play need to be our top players, but there’s also the key ingredients of the team,” Motzko said. “That’s what we spend this time

for. Not on wins and losses. Watching players and mixing your lineup back and forth.”

Despite the lack of wins, the showcase achieved its main goal: helping Team USA begin to solidify its roster and identify players who stood out against elite international competition.

James Hagens led the way for Team USA, tallying one goal and adding four assists in four contests. The Boston Col-

lege forward was drafted seventh overall by the Boston Bruins in the 2025 draft and showed off his elite skating and offensive instincts at Ridder Arena. Hagens is a returning player from last year’s gold-medal winning USA World Juniors Squad and will be expected to play a key role in their title defense.

Fans of the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers also got their first look at L.J. Mooney. Mooney, a U.S. National Development Team product, will skate in his freshman year with the Gophers this fall. The skilled and speedy winger tallied two goals and added an assist in three games for the Red, White and Blue.

Another Gopher, Brodie Ziemer, also had a strong showing in limited action. Ziemer, a Chanhassen native, played three games for the USA and scored three points. Like Hagens, the forward is a returning member of last year’s team and is primed to play an essential role on this year’s squad when they take the ice.

Away from Team USA, the exhibition event featured a few other interesting storylines with Minnesota ties.

The leading scorer of the week came from Team Finland, with Aatos Koivu scoring six goals and adding an assist in five games. Koivu is the son of former NHLer Saku Koivu and nephew of Minnesota Wild great Mikko Koivu.

Minnesota Wild prospects were also in action: Aron Kiviharju suited up for Finland, while Ryder Ritchie represented Canada.

The Summer Showcase gave fans a thrilling preview of the 2026 World Juniors, with top-tier talent and intensity on full display. When the puck drops in Minneapolis and St. Paul this December, many of the names from Ridder Arena will be ready for the world stage.

Excitement mounts for World Juniors

Team USA aims to build fan inclusion

by ROBERT BRENT

Let’s Play Hockey

With the 2026 World Junior Championship just months away, excitement is mounting for one of the premier events on the international hockey calendar. The Twin Cities got a glimpse of what’s to come as Ridder Arena hosted the World Juniors Summer Showcase. To build even more momentum, USA Hockey and Minnesota Sports and Entertainment held a media breakfast, unveiling new details about the tournament set to take over the State of Hockey from Dec. 26 through Jan. 5.

The media event featured an address from Dave Fischer, Senior Director of Communications for USA Hockey, as well as a Q&A session with USA head coach Bob Motzko, general manager John Vanbiesbrouck and Minnesota hockey legend Lou Nanne.

Much of the event centered around USA Hockey’s recent success in international events. USA Hockey is in the midst of its most successful era as a program, capturing gold in the World Juniors, Women’s and Men’s World Championship, and Para Ice Hockey Championship in the last calendar year.

The American under-20 team has captured two consecutive World Junior titles for the first time in program his-

tory, and will be looking to make it a three-peat on home soil in Minneapolis-St. Paul.

Team USA will be led by Bob Motzko, the University of Minnesota’s head coach, who previously guided the national junior squad in 2017 and 2018.

Motzko’s 2017 squad captured the gold medal in Montreal after defeating the Canadian hosts in a shootout.

Coach Motzko spoke to the media about the challenges of competing against the talent pool of the World Junior Championships.

“We just have to get better every day. I call it the slow drip. We’re going to fight through the games, and of course, you play teams like Canada, Sweden, and Finland, but international hockey has grown so much you can’t take anyone lightly,” said Motzko.

The head coach of the American team also spoke about how vital the home ice advantage will be in the tournament.

“Our guys are going to fight. They’re going to put their best foot forward. If we can get that juice in the building, we gotta do our part to make sure we’re in that medal round. It’s a war to get to,” Motzko said. “We want to draw our fans into the fight just as much as our players, and we’ve watched that happen in our state time and time again.”

As Motzko rallied support for Team USA’s push toward gold, others highlighted the broader meaning behind Minnesota’s role as host. During the event, Nanne spoke about how crucial an event the World Juniors are to host for Minnesota, with the tournament making its return to the Twin Cities for

the first time since 1982.

“This is the leading state… You look at the players who get drafted (to the NHL), and you look at the players in the NHL; Minnesota leads the way. Why not give us the opportunity to host?” Nanne said. “To get something like this is really a trophy. They (USA Hockey) have alluded to how important this is, but I don’t think it’s sunk in yet. The fans and parents should be bringing their kids. You know how important the state high school tournament is and how much the kids look up to it. Well, this is a much bigger level to aspire to.”

While fans from all over the world will descend on Minnesota to cheer on their teams, the tournament is set to feature a noticeable local flair. That regional focus will include the ten participating national teams holding their pre-tournament camps in locales throughout the state, including Rochester, Bemidji, Duluth, and Mankato.

John Vanbiesbrouck announced that Team USA will play exhibition games leading up to the World Juniors as well.

Fans will also have the opportunity for several fan activities surrounding the event, all set to take place in the Twin Cities. Full details have yet to be announced, but Dave Fischer promised a high level of fan engagement, led by the same group that organized Super Bowl festivities at U.S. Bank Stadium.

As the countdown to puck drop begins, all eyes in the hockey world and especially in the State of Hockey will be on Team USA’s quest for a historic three-peat on home ice. No matter the result, the tournament will be a landmark event for American and Minnesota hockey.

PHOTO BY ROBERT BRENT

Mason Moe (Eden Prairie, Minn.) unleashes a shot against Canada at Ridder Arena in Minneapolis.

PHOTO BY ROBERT BRENT

USA Hockey’s Dave Fischer (left), World Juniors Head Coach Bob Motzko, and USA Hockey GM John Vanbiesbrouck spoke to the media during the World Juniors Summer Showcase event held in Minneapolis.

Team USA wins first Hlinka Gretzky Cup since 2003

TRENČÍN, Slovakia – The U.S. Under-18 Men’s Select Team defeated Sweden, 5-3, to capture the 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup championship Aug. 16 at Pavol Demitra Ice Stadium behind by a three-point performance from Jack Hextall (Rolling Meadows, Ill.) (1g, 2a) and four power-play goals.

Team USA captures its second championship at the event and first since 2003, finishing the tournament with a record of 3-1-0-1 (W-OTW-OTL-L).

“It’s amazing. Our guys battled hard, and our power play was great. It’s a great feeling to win that one,” said Kevin Porter (Plymouth, Mich.), head coach of the U.S. Under-18 Men’s Select Team. “These players came to play every night.

It was awesome to see. We’re champions now.”

Elton Hermansson opened the scoring for Sweden 10 seconds into the contest, firing a shot from the top of the right faceoff circle home.

The U.S. responded at 2:53 as Levi Harper (Tampa, Fla.) wristed a shot from the top of the left faceoff circle through traffic past Swedish netminder Milo Tjärnlund.

Noah Davidson (Irvine, Calif.) scored 1:04 later, tapping in a cross-crease pass from Hextall just nine seconds into a power play to give Team USA its first lead of the contest

Theodor Knights then knotted the contest at 2-2, as his shot from the point

was redirected and found the back of the net 6:28 into the first period.

The U.S. regained the lead at 17:12 with its second power-play goal, this time from Hextall, who ripped a wrist shot over Tjärnlund’s glove from just outside the slot.

Nikita Klepov (Deerfield Beach, Fla.) added Team USA’s third powerplay tally of the game 45 seconds into the second period, skating in front of the Swedish crease and rifling a shot into the top of the net to double his team’s lead to 4-2.

Hermansson scored his second goal of the game to make it a 4-3 game on a onetimer from the right circle on a 5-on-3 power play at 17:58 of the second period.

U.S. netminder Brady Knowling (Chicago, Ill.) made a cross-crease save with 2:33 remaining in the third period, sliding across and smothering the chance to keep the U.S. ahead by one. Knowling finished the game with 26 saves.

Nick Bogas (Bloomfield Hills, Mich.) scored Team USA’s fourth power-play goal of the contest with 2:26 remaining to seal the championship and account for the 5-3 score.

NOTES: Jack Hextall was named U.S. Player of the Game … The U.S. outshot Sweden, 35-29 … Team USA went 4-for-7 on the power play, while Sweden went 1-for-4 on power plays.

Team USA Wins Both Collegiate and Under-18 Select Series

LAKE PLACID, N.Y. – Both the U.S. Collegiate Women’s Select Team and U.S. Under-18 Women’s Select Team closed out its respective series against Canada Aug. 16 at the Lake Placid Olympic Center, with the Under-18 Select Team racking a 3-1 victory and the Collegiate Select Team falling 7-6 in a shootout.

With the victory, the U.S. wins the Under-18 Select Series with a 2-0-0-1 (W-OTW-OTL-L) record, winning the series for the first time since 2017.

Despite today’s loss, the U.S. also won the Collegiate Select Series with a 1-1-1-0 (W-OTW-OTL-L) record, its sixth-straight series win.

For the first time since the start of both series, the U.S. has won the Collegiate Select and Under-18 Select Series in the same year.

Canada 7, U.S. Collegiate Women’s Select Team 6 (SO)

Just 47 seconds into the game, Maggie Scannell (Wynantskill, N.Y.) gave the U.S. and early 1-0 lead, but Canada answered with two straight goals by Madeline Palumbo and Emmalee Pais to take a 2-1 lead into the second frame.

Canada added two goals in the second to open a 4-1 lead on the afternoon. Eloise Caron slipped the third goal of the game in, before Claire Murdoch took advantage of a misplayed puck by the U.S. goaltender for Canada’s fourth of the contest.

Cassie Hall (South Lyon, Mich.) pulled Team USA back within one, going bar down from the right faceoff dot on a 5-on-3 power play opportunity with 4:38 left in the second.

Eight minutes into the third, Laney

Potter (Cranberry Township, Pa.) scored the U.S.’ third of the game, cutting the lead to 4-3. Team USA then went on the power play with just under 10 on the clock, where Kelly Gorbatenko (Barrington, Ill.) tied the game just 16 seconds into the extra skater opportunity.

MaryKate O’Brien (Wilbraham, Mass.) gave Team USA a 5-4 lead with 8:37 left in the third frame, the team’s fourth unanswered score, sliding a shot five hole. With time ticking down, Canada’s Jocelyn Amos recorded a power play goal to knot the game at 5-5.

With 3:25 left in the third, Jamie Nelson (Andover, Minn.) tallied the U.S.’ sixth of the game, but Canada answered with 1:41 left on the clock. After a scoreless overtime frame, Canada won the shootout, 3-2, in six rounds to

give them the victory.

NOTES: The U.S outshot Canada, 32-31 … the U.S. was 2-8 on power plays, while Canada was 4-6.

U.S. Under-18 Select Team 3, Canada 1

Canada opened the game’s scoring with a goal almost four minutes into the contest. Rosalie Tremblay caught a pass behind the defense at the blue line before a backhander in close found its way over the glove of Bianca Birrittieri (Flower Mound, Texas).

Team USA responded just a few minutes later when Talla Hansen (Wayzata, Minn.) capitalized on a 2-on-1 feed from Lindsay Stepnowski (South Glastonbury, Ct.) to knot the game at 1-1.

Annabelle Lovell (Hingham, Mass.)

gave the U.S. a 2-1 lead with 10:17 remaining in the second after corralling her own rebound off a point-blank shot from the low slot, before rifling one past Canada’s Rowan Houweling from the exact same spot.

Alaina Gnetz (Woodbury, Minn.) opened a 3-1 lead for Team USA midway through the third, slipping a shot past the goalie’s side right off the left post. The U.S.’ defense locked down for the remainder of the game, taking the game, along with the series win.

Birrittieri made 21 saves in the winning effort in net.

NOTES: Canada outshot the U.S., 22-20 … The U.S. was 0-3 on the power play, while Canada was 0-2.

COLLEGE HOCKEY’S PAST AND FUTURE SHARE SPOTLIGHT AT ANNUAL GOLF BANQUET

by ROBERT BRENT Let’s Play Hockey

College hockey’s past and future shared the spotlight at the Royal Golf Club in Lake Elmo, Minnesota, as the 45th annual Hobey Baker Memorial Awards Banquet honored legendary coach Dick Umile and 2025 Hobey Baker Award winner Isaac Howard.

The Hobey Baker Foundation honors on-ice excellence as well as the belief that character builds excellence. Both Howard and Umile embodied those qualities during their fantastic collegiate hockey careers.

The Legends of College Hockey Award was presented first, with the honoring of the illustrious career of Dick Umile.

Umile coached the University of New Hampshire from 1990 until 2018, amassing 598 wins, four Frozen Four appearances and 20 seasons winning 20 games or more. Umile won six Bob Kullen Coach of the Year Awards as the Hockey East coach of the year, and was named the Spencer Penrose Coach of the Year award in 1999.

Before Dick Umile was presented with his award, one of his former players and assistant head coaches, Michael Souza, spoke on his behalf. Souza played for Umile at the University of New Hampshire from 1996 to 2000. The former player then joined Umile’s staff before his retirement in 2018.

While Souza recognizes the onice results as a crucial part of Umile’s legacy, he reflected on the impact Umile made on his players’ lives as his greatest accomplishment.

“I’ve always said that’s the true testament that he was beloved by all the guys who played for him,” said Souza. “No matter their experience, no matter if they were an All-American, All-League, it didn’t matter. They understood as they grew that their coach treated them like family.”

When Umile took the stage, he reviewed his career, but spent most of his time discussing the importance of his family and players in his life.

Ultimately, Umile thanked his former coaches and the game of hockey for who he’s become as a person and a figure in the college hockey world.

“I can’t be happier right now. Hockey has been so important to me and has helped me develop as a person. God knows where I’d be if it weren’t for hockey and the coaches I had.” Umile said

With the awarding of the Legends of College Hockey Award, Umile joins a group of some of the most consequential figures in the history of NCAA hockey, like Jerry York, Don Lucia, and countless other icons.

From a coach whose career shaped generations to a player just beginning to write his own story, the banquet celebrated the full arc of a hockey life. The next presentation of the event was the awarding of the Hobey Baker Memorial Award to Isaac, or Ike, Howard.

Howard, a Hudson, Wisconsin native, won the 2025 Hobey Baker for an excellent season that included leading the nation in points-per-game, winning the BIG 10 Player of the Year, and BIG 10 Tournament MVP.

Ike’s 2025 campaign wrapped up an impressive junior and college career where he won the 2024 World Juniors championship and the 2025 IIHF World Championship with Team USA.

Howard’s greatest achievement may be how he lifted every team he played for

The talented forward started his collegiate career at Minnesota Duluth, but transferred to Michigan State for

his sophomore season. When Howard moved to Michigan State for the 202324 season, they had not won 20 games in a season since 2007-08.

Howard joined MSU the same season as his former coach in the U.S. National Development program, Adam Nightingale. In Howard’s two seasons back with Nightingale, the Spartans won two BIG 10 Championships and made NCAA Tournament appearances.

MSU coach Adam Nightingale was on hand at the event to make remarks before Howard was presented with the Hobey Baker Award.

Nightingale spoke about Howard’s commitment to improving his game in every area of the ice. The coach recounted a story of how Howard wanted to play on the penalty kill before his junior season.

Throughout the year, Howard rounded into a strong penalty killer and helped kill off a crucial penalty in overtime of the BIG 10 Championship game. After that essential penalty-killing

effort, Howard scored the doubleovertime goal to give the Spartans their second-straight conference championship.

Nightingale spoke highly of Howard’s presence on the ice, but even more so about his quality of character.

Nightingale says Howard is a role model for everyone, including his children.

“I have two boys and they look up to you (Howard), I hope they turn out to be good hockey players, but I don’t really care about that,” Nightingale said. “My dream is that they turn out to be the man you are.”

For his part, Howard was mainly focused on praising his experience at MSU when he received the award. Howard thanked his teammates, coaches and the program for his success.

“It’s very special to win this award, but it’s a team effort. There are so many people involved at Michigan State that have helped me be the best I can on the ice,” Howard said. “It’s so cool to do this for the school and represent that

hockey team and our culture. I couldn’t be happier.”

Winning the Hobey Baker Award capped an impressive college career for Howard, but his hockey journey is far from over. The Tampa Bay Lightning drafted the American forward 31st overall in 2022, but traded his rights to the Edmonton Oilers this year.

Howard signed with the Oilers and will turn pro next season. If his college career is any indication, he’s set to achieve great things while representing himself as a high-character human being.

The evening closed with a fitting reminder of what the Hobey Baker Memorial Award represents. Not just talent, but the character and commitment behind it. In honoring Dick Umile’s decades of leadership and Isaac Howard’s standout college career, the banquet celebrated both the enduring influence of a coach and the promise of a young star.

PHOTO BY ROBERT BRENT

Isaac Howard poses with the Hobey Baker Award at the 45th Annual Awards banquet held in Lake Elmo.

PHOTO BY ROBERT BRENT

Longtime coach of the University of New Hampshire Dick Umile received the Legends of College Hockey Award.

HERB BROOKS FOUNDATION INDUCTS FUNK

FAMILY INTO YOUTH HOCKEY HALL OF FAME

FAMILY HAS BEEN A PILLAR OF COMMUNITY-DRIVEN HOCKEY FOR MORE THAN 70 YEARS

by ROBERT BRENT

Let’s Play Hockey

For the past 20 years, the Herb Brooks Foundation has honored those deeply committed to youth hockey by inducting them into its prestigious Youth Hockey Hall of Fame. At this year’s Herb Brooks Golf Classic on July 29, 2025, the latest inductees, the Funk hockey family, were officially enshrined.

Youth sports are the lifeblood of Minnesota hockey. Built on a community-based development model, the system emphasizes young players growing and competing in their home regions. This approach gives kids across the State of Hockey access to high-level competition, often with fewer barriers than in other parts of the country.

The Funk family has been a pillar of that community-driven hockey legacy for more than 70 years. The family dynasty has been involved in youth hockey development going back to Bill Funk, who coached the University of St. Thomas from 1948-1955, before going on to help found what is now the St. Paul Capitals program in the 1970s.

Bill Funk’s contributions to Minnesota hockey are monumental in their own right, but he was the first branch in what would go on to be an entire family of instrumental figures in youth hockey development.

The next generations of Funks

included Bill’s sons Pat, Jim and Mike Funk. Pat Funk followed in his father’s footsteps, coaching the University of St. Thomas and St. Thomas Academy. Pat had a close relationship with Herb Brooks, with the induction by Brooks’ foundation being a full-circle moment.

He now works as a scout with the San Jose Sharks, a position he has held since 1990, the Sharks’ inaugural season.

Mike Funk also became a notable coach in the Minnesota hockey ecosystem. He coached the Mountain View High School team to a State Tournament appearance in the late 1970s before taking the mantle as the head coach of St. Thomas Academy.

While at St. Thomas Academy, Mike coached Herb Brooks’ son Donny.

The youngest of the siblings, Jim, served on Pat Funk’s staff at St. Thomas Academy before a long coaching career in St. Paul public schools. Jim is currently an assistant coach at Highland Park, the school he graduated from.

A third generation of Funks is now making their mark on youth hockey as well, with Pat Funk’s three children, Liz, John, and Matt, involved with coaching, scouting, and support of youth development programs.

Liz Funk, a North Dakota alum, coaches in Minot, North Dakota. John, a former Wisconsin player, served as a scout for the Colorado Avalanche before returning to Minnesota to coach youth

“I think for us, it was always about the love of the game and playing it the right way. As a coach’s kid, you always felt like you had to do it even better. And our dad was the type of coach who held us accountable.” - Matt Funk

hockey.

Matt Funk is the former head coach of St. Thomas Academy and currently serves as the head coach and athletic director at Cretin-Derham Hall High School.

Matt Funk is now the head of one of the premier hockey programs in St. Paul, but he still looks back at his childhood with his family as some of the most crucial moments in his hockey life.

“We’d go to practice after school with my dad. We’d run around the rink. We’d go on road trips. And so a lot of our memories growing up were around the rink from a coach’s perspective,” Funk said. “I think for us, it was always about the love of the game and playing it the right way. As a coach’s kid, you always felt like you had to do it even better. And our dad was the type of coach who held us accountable.”

Those memories have helped shape Funk’s coaching philosophy and framed what matters about participation in youth sports.

“It is about growing up with your buddies, playing the game you love, forming relationships, and those memories, because the game stops for us at some point. Hopefully for the top 2% it goes for a long time, but for most

of us, it ends early, but those memories are always there,” Funk said. “It’s about making sure that we’re giving them an environment that they’re going to talk about, remember, and I think that’s why coaching the age group that all of us coached at is important. It’s where the game is still pure.”

The Funk family’s commitment to coaching and developing the game at the youth level has impacted countless young people in the state. With the honor of being inducted into the Herb Brooks Foundation Youth Hockey Hall of Fame, the Funks got their welldeserved recognition as a legendary hockey family.

Matt Funk spoke candidly about how it felt to receive the honor as part of the Funks and what it meant to the rest of the family.

“When I received the call, it was a shock. The reason I do what I do is because of my grandpa, my dad and my uncle. So for the whole family to be recognized, it was amazing,” Funk said. “It was quite the honor, and it was fun to make that call to my dad and have that conversation with him.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF HERB BROOKS FOUNDATION

Herb Brooks Foundation member Dan Brooks presented the foundation’s Youth Hockey Hall of Fame Award to the Funk Family.

NAHL Showcase Marks 22nd Year

The “Greatest Show on Ice” returns to Blaine, Minnesota as the North American Hockey League’s 2025 Showcase will be held from September 24-27, 2025. This year’s showcase features each NAHL team participating in three games, with the United States National Team Development Program U17 team playing in two games.

The NAHL Showcase attracts over 9,000 people in overall attendance, including more than 300+ professional, college, and junior scouts. This premier event draws hundreds of NCAA and NHL scouts for their first look at some of the best and brightest that North America has to offer.

For more information on the NAHL Showcase, including schedule, ticket prices, hotels, rental cars, and arena information, scan the QR code in this

article.

“Everyone looks forward to the ‘Greatest Show On Ice’ where so many great players get to compete in front of so many NCAA coaches and NHL scouts,” said NAHL Commissioner and President Mark Frankenfeld.

“The competition is very high, players earn commitments during the event or get placed on a ‘watch list’. With so much hockey under one roof, the NAHL Showcase truly earns its reputation as

the Greatest Show on Ice.”

The NAHL takes pride in the fact that more players earn a NCAA commitment than any other junior league. The NAHL averages over 350 NCAA commitments (active and alumni) annually with approximately 70% of them being Division I. The NAHL Showcase plays a significant role in this success, with dozens of players earning an NCAA Division I opportunity each season during and following their

participation in the Greatest Show on Ice.

Alongside the NAHL teams, over 100 Tier I programs will call Blaine, Minnesota home that weekend. The NAHL Showcase marks the opening weekend of the T1ER season for the 14U, 15U, 16U, and 18U divisions, and will feature elite T1ER talent from across the country, along with highlevel guest teams from various top Tier I leagues—including programs from Minnesota’s High Performance (HP) program—all flocking to the state for this premier event. Additionally, the weekend will serve as the second league weekend for the FALL League. All 52 NAHL Showcase games will be broadcasted live and in HD on NAHLTV.com

2025 NAHL Showcase Schedule

NAHL Features Record-Breaking Season of 422 NCAA Commitments

The North American Hockey League is ecstatic to announce a record-breaking 422 college commitments for the 202425 season. This number represents the second consecutive season in which the NAHL has produced 400+ commitments, continuing a remarkable trend of exceeding 300 NCAA commitments in each of the last nine seasons. Each team’s dedication to development, exposure, and advancement is why the NAHL remains a premier destination for hockey players.Heading into the collegiate hockey season, 37% of NCAA freshmen are NAHL alumni and our athletes are being recognized at the highest level of collegiate and professional hockey. This past season, 10 NAHL alumni were members of the Western Michigan roster that went on to win the NCAA Division I Ice Hockey Championship. Leading the charge for the Broncos is former Bismarck Bobcat, Owen Michaels. He was named the Frozen Four’s Most Outstanding Player. The 22-year-old tallied four goals in the last two games and played a critical role in the Broncos’ success on the national stage. The Detroit, Michigan native ends his season with 18 goals, 18 assists, and a +27 rating. He ranks second on his team in goals and his plus-minus rating. On the professional hockey stage, former Odessa Jackalope Connor Hellebuyck won the NHL’s Hart and Vezina trophies. The Winnipeg Jets netminder is the first goalie since 2015 to win both awards in the same year. The Hart Trophy is awarded to the athlete who is “adjudged to be the most valuable to his team,” while the Vezina Trophy recognizes the NHL’s top goaltender. He went almost

unanimous on the Vezina Trophy, garnering 31 out of the 32 first-place votes. Hellebuyck’s ability in the blue paint led him to have a dominant regular season, featuring a league-leading 47

Luke Hause makes D1 committment

The Kenai River Brown Bears of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are proud to announce that defenseman Luke Hause has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for Long Island University.

The 6’4 lefty from the State of Hockey is a third-year veteran of the Brown Bears. Hause served as the Captain of the roster and appeared in 46 games on the ice this past season. He found the back of the net eight times while notching 20 assists. Hause is the leading scorer among defensemen on his roster, leading in goals, assists, and total points. He was also named as a Top Prospect for the Midwest Division roster at the 2025 Top Prospects Tournament. While at the USA Hockey Arena, Hause produced an assist for the Midwest Division team.

In his sophomore season, the ‘04 skater laced up in 53 games for Kenai River. Hause scored five goals and produced 16 assists. Two of his five goals were named the decider in contests. His debut season saw the Minnesota native playing in 49 games for the Brown Bears, notching seven assists for the team.

Hause shares what it means to secure his commitment to Long Island University on social media.

“I am very blessed and honored to announce my commitment to play Division I hockey at Long Island University. I want to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, family, coaches, teammates, and friends who have helped me along the way.”

Hause is the fifth member of the Kenai River Brown Bears to make a Division I hockey college commitment.

Luke Hause played at Hill-Murray High School before joining the NAHL and is now a Division I commit.

league in the United States and, along with the USHL, is one of only two U.S.-based junior hockey leagues that operate on a non-pay-to-play model. The NAHL takes pride in advancing players directly to NCAA hockey and in the positive impacts our teams have on their local communities. The NAHL’s 51st season will be highlighted by the following league events, each of which aims at the Development, Exposure, and Advancement of players.

The 2025 NAHL Showcase will have each member NAHL team playing in three games, with the USNTDP 17U roster playing in two games. The 2026 Top Prospects Tournament heads back to USA Hockey Arena in Plymouth, MI. The event will feature players selected from all four divisions, including many selected with the help of NHL Central Scouting. The Robertson Cup National Championship will once again be held at the Fogerty Arena in May of 2026, and it offers four teams a chance to be crowned the NAHL Champions.

wins with the Jets. He led qualified goalies in shutouts (8) and goalsagainst average (2.00) while sitting in second with his save percentage (.925).

The NAHL is the oldest junior hockey

“Everyone looks forward to the NAHL Showcase, Top Prospects, and the Robertson Cup,” said NAHL Commissioner and President Mark Frankenfeld. “The NAHL Vertical event structure is second to none when it comes to providing our players the opportunity to be seen in front of literally 100’s of scouts. It’s great to have the USNTDP compete at the Showcase and Top Prospects Tournament, which, as you can imagine, draws a huge crowd. It’s also great to have NHL Central Scouting participate in choosing our Select Teams for the Top Prospects Tournament.”

Lakeville native Kyle Doll makes NCAA committment

The Bismarck Bobcats of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are proud to announce that forward Kyle Doll has committed to play NCAA hockey for Gustavus Adolphus College in the MIAC.

The 6’0 righty from the State of Hockey will return to his home state to skate with the Golden Gusties in the fall. Doll is a third-year veteran of the Bismarck Bobcats. This past season, he hit the ice in 65 games for the North Dakota team, tallying 14 goals and 22 assists. Four of his goals were named the decider in contests, and he featured a +30 rating. Doll is a member of the reigning Robertson Cup roster this past year and was named as a Top Prospect for the Central Division roster at the 2025 Top Prospects Tournament.

The Lakeville, Minnesota native hit the ice in 66 games for his 202324 campaign. The ‘05 skater found the back of the net 12 times and produced 16 assists for the Bismarck team. One of his goals was named the game-winning goal, and two of his goals were scored on the man advantage. His debut season saw Doll playing in 55 contests for the Bobcats. He notched three goals and 12 assists for Bismarck. Doll featured a +11 rating for his rookie season. The 20-year-old laced up for a total of 186 games with the Bobcats, tallying 79 career points for the team.

“My decision came down to many factors. I had great conversations with the coaches from Gustavus and learned about the culture and exciting things they have going on down there. I think it will be a great fit because it’s an hour away from my hometown, and I will get

Kyle Doll played 65 games for Bismarck and tallied 14 goals and 22 assists and will join Gustavus Adolphus College in the MIAC.

a great education and get to continue playing the sport I love,” Doll said. He will join fellow Bismarck Bobcat, Charlie Sandven, this upcoming fall with Gustavus Adolphus College. Doll is one of 21 members of the Bismarck Bobcats to make a college hockey commitment.

NORTH AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE

ABERDEEN WINGS

Dayton, MN Lafayette, CO Greenville, SC Omaha, NE El Dorado Hills, CA Elk River, MN Finspangs, SWE Windsor, ON Elmhurst, IL Stillwater, MN Shrewsbury, MA Montreal, QB Rogers, MN Warroad, MN Orono, MN Duxbury, MA Whitefish, MO Anchorage, AK Wayzata, MN Šmarje-Sap, SLO Macomb, MI Anchorage, AK Brighton, MI Rosemount, MN Fergus Falls, MN Philadelphia, PA Ostrava, CZE

ANCHORAGE WOLVERINES

Anchorage,

Division:

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Mike Aikens

Asst. Coach: Ilya Demidov

AMARILLO WRANGLERS

MN Lafayette, CO Greenville, SC Omaha, NE El Dorado Hills, CA Elk River, MN Finspangs, SWE Windsor, ON Elmhurst, IL Stillwater, MN Shrewsbury, MA Montreal, QB Rogers, MN Warroad, MN Orono, MN Duxbury, MA Whitefish, MO Anchorage, AK Wayzata, MN Šmarje-Sap, SLO Macomb,

Deux-Montagnes, QC, CAN Kyiv, UKR Hume, VA Grand Rapids, MI Darien, CT White Lake, MI Woodbury, CT Kyiv, UKR Luleå, SWE Barre, VT Onsala, SWE Winnipeg, MB, CAN Heron Lake, MN Billerica, MA Brentwood, TN Burlington, VT Riga, LAT Springwater, ONT, CAN Ossining, NY Long Beach, CA Amarillo, TX Superior, WI Clayton, NC Knoxville, TN Pittsburgh, PA Székesfehérvár, HUN Brest, BEL St. Laurent, MB, CAN Phoenix, AZ

Aalborg, DEN Helena, MT Newport Coast, CA

02/07/06 02/28/07 01/14/06 04/18/06 06/27/05

Coaching

04/04/06

Austin, MN

Deux-Montagnes, QC, CAN Kyiv, UKR Hume, VA Grand Rapids, MI Darien, CT White Lake, MI Woodbury, CT Kyiv, UKR Luleå, SWE Barre, VT Onsala, SWE Winnipeg, MB, CAN Heron Lake, MN Billerica, MA Brentwood, TN Burlington, VT Riga, LAT Springwater, ONT, CAN Ossining, NY Long Beach, CA Amarillo, TX Superior, WI Clayton, NC Knoxville, TN Pittsburgh, PA Székesfehérvár, HUN Brest, BEL St. Laurent, MB, CAN Phoenix, AZ Aalborg, DEN Helena, MT Newport Coast, CA 07/28/06 01/06/05 05/31/06

Division: Central

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Steve Howard

Asst. Coach: Al Rooney Asst. Coach: Robby

NAHL ROSTER

NAHL ROSTER NAHL

Bolded Name Indicates Player with College Commitment

NORTH AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE

BISMARCK BOBCATS

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Garrett Roth Asst. Coach: Alec Rauhauser

Brampton, ON Bismarck, ND Edina, MN Edina, MN Grand Rapids, MN Jihlava, CZE Pinckney, MI Howell, MI Commerce, MI Macomb, MI Pittsburgh, PA Bermuda, BM Mountain View, CA Kingston, ON, CAN Bloomfield Hills, MI St. Louis, MO Greenwood Village, CO Alpena, MI Elektrenai, LTU Gross Point Farms, MI Minneapolis, MN Woodbury, MN Oslo, NOR Dewitt, MI

Riga, LV Klagenfurt, AT

Head

Corpus Christi, TX

Division: South

Coaching

Kevin St.

Asst. Coach: Philip Oberlin

CHIPPEWA STEEL

CORPUS CHRISTI ICERAYS

Arvada,

Chanhassen,

Stillwater, MN Knoxville, TN Arvada, CO Chanhassen, MN Lake Elmo, MN Shoreline, WA North Oaks, MN Prague, CZE Marblehead, MA Havre, MT Wayzata, MN Missoula, MT St. Louis, MO Fond Du Lac, WI Downers Grove, IL Raleigh, NC Edwardsville, IL Park Ridge, IL Parker, CO Indianapolis, IN Lake Ronkonkoma, NY Chippewa Falls, WI East Aurora, NY Winnetka, IL Napierville, IL Centennial, CO Denver, CO San Jose, CA

Chippewa

03/20/07 05/28/06 04/11/05 05/05/06

Asst. Coach: Philip Oberlin

Danbury, CT Division: East

Coaching Staff Head Coach: Lenny Caglione

Lake Elmo, MN Shoreline, WA North Oaks, MN Prague, CZE Marblehead, MA Havre, MT Wayzata, MN Missoula, MT St. Louis, MO Fond Du Lac, WI Downers Grove, IL Raleigh, NC Edwardsville, IL Park Ridge, IL Parker, CO Indianapolis, IN Lake Ronkonkoma,

Upper Saint Clair, PA Irvine, CA Val-D’Or, QC, CAN Burlington, ONT, CAN Euclid, OH Allen, TX Clifton Park, NY Malden, MA Riverview, FL Skelleftea, SWE The Colony, TX Northville, MI Bratislava, SVK Chatham, MA West Hartford, CT Minnetrista, MN Tashkent, RUS Westfield, IN Pittsburgh, PA Avon, OH Gibraltar, MI East Wenatchee, WA Hagan, Norway Fayetteville, NC Little Current, ONT, CAN Haddonfield,

NAHL ROSTER

NAHL ROSTER

NAHL ROSTER NAHL ROSTER

Bolded Name Indicates Player with College Commitment

NORTH AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE

EL PASO RHINOS

El Paso, TX Division: South

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Michael Rivera

Asst. Coach: Austin Cline

DOGS

Fairbanks, AK Division: Midwest

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Dakota Bell

Asst. Coach: Nick Christenson

Gatineau, QB, CAN Overland Park, KS St-Jean-Sur-Richelieu, QB, CAN Byron Center, MI Milwaukee,WI Scottsdale, AZ Mequon, WI Tampere, FIN Lincoln Park, MI Boston, MA North Canton, OH Providence, RI Northfield, MN Downington, PA Pittsburgh, PA San Diego, CA Val-d’Or, QB Sartell, MN Maumee, OH Colorado Springs, CO Cinicinnati, OH Buffalo, NY Heartland, MI Scottsdale, AZ

Gatineau, QB, CAN Overland Park, KS

Silver Spring, MD Barrie, ON, CAN Fukuoka, JPN Redmond, WA Park Ridge, IL New Boston, MI Naperville, IL 04/24/07 03/05/05 08/23/07 12/02/05 01/25/06

FAIRBANKS ICE DOGS

Fairbanks, AK

Division:

Coaching

Bloomfield, MI Chino

Hamilton, ONT,

Rochester

St-Jean-Sur-Richelieu, QB, CAN Byron Center, MI Milwaukee,WI Scottsdale, AZ Mequon, WI Tampere, FIN Lincoln Park, MI Boston, MA North Canton, OH Providence, RI Northfield, MN Downington, PA Pittsburgh, PA San Diego, CA Val-d’Or, QB Sartell, MN Maumee, OH Colorado Springs, CO Cinicinnati, OH Buffalo, NY Heartland, MI Scottsdale, AZ Silver Spring, MD Barrie, ON, CAN Fukuoka, JPN Redmond, WA Park Ridge, IL New Boston, MI Naperville, IL

MI Chicago, IL Tempe, AZ Lewistown, NY Imperial, MO Harrisburg, PA Ringwood, NJ Bolzano, ITA Staten Island, NY Birmingham, MI Belchertown, MA Chatham, NJ Scottsdale, AZ Fall River, MA Markham, ONT, CAN Russell, ONT, CAN Montreal, QC, CAN Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ Sudbury, ONT, CAN Oulu, FIN North Ridgeville, OH Moscow, RUS

ELMIRA AVIATORS

Elmira, NY Division: East

Coaching Staff

JANESVILLE JETS

Janesville, WI Division: Midwest

Coaching Staff

JANESVILLE JETS

Head Coach: Dominick Manochio Asst. Coach: Jerry D’Amigo

Janesville,

Hamilton, ONT,

Naperville, IL

Chester Springs, PA Stockholm, SWE

Rochester Hills, MI Chicago, IL Tempe, AZ Lewistown, NY Imperial, MO Harrisburg, PA Ringwood, NJ Bolzano, ITA Staten Island, NY Birmingham, MI Belchertown, MA Chatham, NJ Scottsdale, AZ Fall River, MA Markham, ONT, CAN Russell, ONT, CAN Montreal, QC, CAN Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ Sudbury, ONT, CAN Oulu, FIN North Ridgeville, OH Moscow, RUS Naperville, IL Chester Springs, PA Stockholm, SWE 02/03/06 03/02/07

Coaching

Head Coach: Lennie Childs Asst. Coach: Ty Proffitt

NAHL ROSTER

NORTH AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE

JOHNSTOWN TOMAHAWKS

Johnstown, PA Division: East

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Adam Houli

Asst. Coach: Nick Mish

Asst. Coach: Geoff Beauparlant

LONE STAR BRAHMAS

North Richland Hills, TX Division: South

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Dan Wildfong

Asst. Coach: Logan Murphy

LONE STAR BRAHMAS

North Richland Hills, TX Division: South

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Dan Wildfong Asst. Coach: Logan Murphy

KENAI RIVER BROWN BEARS

Battle Creek, MI Roseau, MN Roseau, MN New Smyrna Beach, FL Faribault, MN Columbus, MN

Little Falls, MN Traverse City, MI Lincoln University, PA Lake Villa, IL Minot, ND Duluth, MN Austin, TX Umea, SWE Eagle River, AK Riga, LAT Minneapolis, MN Fort Myers, FL Martin, SVK Albertville, MN Cumming, GA Elk River, MN Bratislava, SVK London, GBR East Bethel, MN Royal Oak, MI 02/25/08 01/05/06 09/06/05 01/20/07 08/30/05 11/22/05 05/16/05

Soldotna, AK Division Midwest

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Darren Banks

Asst. Coach: Chris Heath

Battle Creek, MI Roseau, MN Roseau, MN

New Smyrna Beach, FL Faribault, MN Columbus, MN

Little Falls, MN

Traverse City, MI

Lincoln University, PA Lake Villa, IL Minot, ND Duluth, MN Austin, TX

Umea, SWE Eagle River, AK Riga, LAT Minneapolis, MN

Fort Myers, FL Martin, SVK

Albertville, MN

Cumming, GA Elk River, MN

Bratislava, SVK

London, GBR

East Bethel, MN

Royal Oak, MI

Auburn, ME Division: East

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Nick Skerlick

MAINE NORDIQUES

Auburn, ME Division: East

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Nick Skerlick

Rancho Cucamonga, CA Hyannis, MA Boston, MA

Bolded Name Indicates Player with College Commitment

NORTH AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE

MARYLAND BLACK BEARS

Coaching

Winthrop, MA Commerce Township, MI Casco, MI Edgewood, MD East Amherst, NY Elizabethtown, PA Toronto, ON, CAN Oakton, VA Rye, NY Natrona Heights, PA Jericho, NY Castle Rock, CO Westport, CT Oshawa, ON, CAN Lexington, KY Newport Beach, CA Lexington, KY

Brentwood, TN Karlstad, SWE Cloquet, MN Chatham, NJ Long Lake, MN Duluth, MN Praha, CZE Bismarck, ND Batavia, NY Green Bay, WI Post Falls, ID Cottage Grove, MN Independence, MN Kosice, SVK Birmingham, MI Andover, MN Scottsdale, AZ Nacka, SWE Dusseldorf,

Coaching

RUS Ekskile, LAT Saugus, CA St. Charles, IL

MO Toronto, ONT, CAN Thunder Bay, ONT, CAN St. Albert, AB, CAN Edina, MN Sherwood Park, AB, CAN Chaska, MN North Oaks, MN Boca Raton, FL High Bridge, NJ North Vancouver, BC, CAN Thunder Bay, ON, CAN

WI Lagrange, IL NewMarket,

Wyomissing, PA Rapid City, MI Chippewa Falls, WI Saint Louis, MO Toronto, ONT, CAN Thunder Bay, ONT, CAN St. Albert, AB, CAN Edina, MN Sherwood Park, AB, CAN Chaska, MN North Oaks, MN Boca Raton, FL High Bridge, NJ North Vancouver, BC, CAN Thunder Bay, ON, CAN Trenton,

Bemidji, MN Traverse City, MI Wayzata, MN Framingham, MA Gurnee, IL Lakewood, OH Encinitas, CA Pittsburgh, PA Minot, ND Katrineholm, SWE Brooklyn Park, MN Aliso Viejo, CA Geneva, NY Winnipeg, MB Grand Forks, ND Plano, TX Portsmouth, NH Niskayuna,NY Helsinki, FIN St.

Bemidji,

Traverse City, MI Wayzata, MN Framingham, MA Gurnee, IL Lakewood, OH Encinitas, CA Pittsburgh, PA Minot, ND Katrineholm, SWE Brooklyn Park, MN Aliso Viejo, CA Geneva, NY Winnipeg, MB Grand Forks, ND Plano, TX Portsmouth, NH Niskayuna,NY

NORTH AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE

NEW HAMPSHIRE MOUNTAIN KINGS

Hooksett, NH Division: East

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Cam Robichaud

Asst. Coach: Trevor Simonson

Asst. Coach: Claire Coffman

Goffstown, NH Chicago, IL

Bemidji, MN Valencia, CA Forest Lake, MN Kosice, SVK Bojnice, SVK Ottawa, ON, CAN Blainville, QC, CAN Woodbury, MN Saint-Lazare, QC, CAN Exeter, NH Park Ridge, IL Hastings, MN Tewksbury, MA Grand Rapids, MI St. Louis, MO Colorado Springs, CO Lewiston, ME Birmingham, MI Munchen, GER South Berwick, ME Dallas, TX

Jyvaskyla, FIN Attleboro, MA

Yekaterinburg, RUS

NEW MEXICO ICE WOLVES

Albuquerque, NM Division: South

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Kyle McKenzie Asst. Coach: Chris Garrity

NEW JERSEY TITANS

NEW MEXICO ICE WOLVES

Albuquerque, NM Division: South

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Kyle McKenzie

Asst. Coach: Chris Garrity

Lino Lakes, MN Canton, MI Tomsk, RUS Farminigton, MN Thief River Falls, MN Redwood, CA Oakdale, MN Southgate, CT Livonia, MI Old Greenwich, CT Chanhassen, MN Tidgefield, CT Moscow, RUS Calgary, CAN Jönköping, SWE North Oaks,

NORTH IOWA BULLS

Mendon, MA

Mendon, MA Örnsköldsvik, SWE Woodcliff Lake, NJ New York City, NY Winnipeg, MB, CAN Mendon, MA Kaluga, RUS Tampa, FL Moscow, RUS Tampa, FL Princeton, NJ Jelgava, LAT Anchorage, AK Kansas City, MO Arlington Hills, IL Glencoe, IL Providence, RI New York City, NY Chesley, ON, CAN Rumson, NJ Southport, CT Glen Cove, NY Westfield, MA Middletown, NJ London, ON, CAN Toledo, OH

Middletown, NJ Division: East

07/09/06 01/19/06 07/05/05 06/24/05

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: George Haviland

Assoc. Head Coach: Andey Kapranov

Mason City, IA Division: Central

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Nick Bruneteau

Asst. Coach: AJ Ruskowski

NORTH IOWA BULLS

Assoc. Head Coach: Colby Cohen

Mason City, IA Division: Central

Örnsköldsvik, SWE

Woodcliff Lake, NJ

New York City, NY Winnipeg, MB, CAN MA

Dauphin, PA Ashburn, VA Pittsburgh, PA Moscow, RUS

Kaluga, RUS Tampa, FL Moscow, RUS Tampa, FL Princeton, NJ

Jelgava, LAT

Anchorage, AK

Kansas City, MO

Arlington Hills, IL

Glencoe, IL Providence, RI

New York City,

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Nick Bruneteau Asst. Coach: AJ Ruskowski

NAHL ROSTER

NAHL ROSTER NAHL ROSTER

NAHL ROSTER

Bolded Name Indicates Player with College Commitment

NORTH AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE

NORTHEAST GENERALS

Canton, MA Division: East

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Bryan Erikson

Asst. Coach: Aaron Murray

Asst. Coach: Darryl Locke

Kloten, SUI Fort Myers, FL Karlstad, SWE St. Louis Park, MN Huntington Beach, CA Charlestown, MA Bolton, CAN Plainview, NY Fort Mill, SC Stafford, VT Wharton, NJ Centerport, NY Hampton, NH Leesburg, VA Rye, NY Naperville, IL Marquette, MI Grums, SWE Delray Beach, FL Louny, CZE Braintree, MA Tucson, AZ Westfield, IN Malvernm, PA Hingham, MA Truro, MA Rockland, MA

OKLAHOMA WARRIORS

Philadelphia, PA Woodbury,

Melrose, MA Winfield, IL Fargo, ND Clarkston, MI Most, CZE International Falls, MN Roseville, MN Tulsa, OK Mount Pleasant, SC O’Fallon, IL Pittsburgh, PA Shawnee, KS Leninogorsk, RUS Victoria, MN

Coach: Nic Leibold

OKLAHOMA WARRIORS

JACKALOPES

TX Division: South

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Scott Deur Asst. Coach: Marquise Cotten

Sewell, NJ Division: East

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Justin Hale

Asst. Coach: Julian Biondo

Asst. Coach: George Bosak

ROSTER Bolded Name Indicates Player with College Commitment

NORTH AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE

ROCHESTER

JR. AMERICANS

Rochester, NY Division: East

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Francois Methot

Asst. Coach: Brian Gionta

Asst. Coach: David Powlowski

Palm Beach Gardens, FL East Longmeadow, MA Webster, NY Toms River, NJ Bismarck, ND Henderson, NV Montreal, QC, CAN Shrewsbury, MA Arveda, CO Ancaster, ON, CAN Bloomfield Hills, MI Rochester, NY Hallsberg, SWE Whitehouse Station, NJ Harrisburg, PA Sunrise, FL Galena, OH Calgary, AB, CAN Honeoye Falls, NY Nashville, IN Cary, NC Toronto, ON, CAN Hamilton, ON, CAN Rochester, NY Anchorage, AK Rochester, NY 01/27/07 01/29/05

Palm Beach Gardens, FL East Longmeadow, MA Webster, NY Toms River, NJ Bismarck, ND Henderson, NV Montreal, QC, CAN Shrewsbury, MA Arveda, CO Ancaster, ON, CAN Bloomfield Hills, MI Rochester, NY Hallsberg, SWE Whitehouse Station, NJ Harrisburg, PA Sunrise, FL

Galena, OH Calgary, AB, CAN Honeoye Falls, NY Nashville, IN Cary, NC

SPRINGFIELD JR. BLUES

Toronto, ON, CAN Hamilton, ON, CAN Rochester, NY Anchorage, AK Rochester, NY 01/27/07 01/29/05

Springfield, IL Division: Midwest

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Todd Pococke

Asst. Coach: Jon Skarlis

SHREVEPORT MUDBUGS

Vandalia, OH Clarkston, MI Wheaton, IL Dublin, OH Denver, CO Indian Trail, NC Saint Clair Shores, MI Nashville, TN Manhattan Beach, CA Plymouth Meeting, PA Woodlands, TX Pittsburgh, PA God, HUN Mcmasterville, QC, CAN Omaha, NB Minnesota, MN Melville, SK Sault St Marie, MI Trois Rivieres, QC, CAN Charlotte, NC

BLUES

Springfield, IL Division: Midwest

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Todd Pococke

Asst. Coach: Jon Skarlis

Gormley, ONT, CAN Homer Glenn, IL Havertown, PA Webster, NY Portage, PA Marquette, MI Campbell River, BC, CAN Tampa Bay, FL 10/02/06 10/11/05 07/25/05 03/07/06

Shreveport, LA Division: South

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Jason Campbell

Asst. Coach: Brett Smith

Mckinney, TX

Vandalia, OH Clarkston, MI Wheaton, IL Dublin, OH Denver, CO Indian Trail, NC Saint Clair Shores, MI Nashville, TN Manhattan Beach, CA Plymouth Meeting, PA Woodlands, TX Pittsburgh, PA God, HUN Mcmasterville, QC, CAN Omaha, NB Minnesota, MN Melville, SK Sault St Marie, MI Trois Rivieres, QC, CAN Charlotte, NC Mckinney, TX

Gormley, ONT, CAN Homer Glenn, IL Havertown, PA Webster, NY Portage, PA Marquette, MI Campbell River, BC, CAN Tampa Bay, FL 10/02/06 10/11/05 07/25/05 03/07/06 11/12/06 04/27/06 09/12/07 05/09/07 03/15/06 05/25/06 07/31/06 04/17/06 05/03/07 05/09/07 08/18/06

St. Cloud, MN Division: Central

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Joe Exter

Asst. Coach: Bryce Johnson

ST. CLOUD NORSEMEN

St. Cloud, MN Division: Central

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Joe Exter

Asst. Coach: Bryce Johnson

Alexandria, MN Elmhurst, IL Rogers, MN Duluth, MN Maple Grove, MN Estero ,FL Eau Claire,WI Hermantown, MN Terrebonne,QC, CAN Dickinson, ND Cloquet, MN Burlington, MA North Wales, NY Long Beach, NY Rosemount, MN Blaine, MN Hartland, MI Eagan, MN Aurora, IL Marshfield, MA Pittsburgh

NAHL ROSTER

NAHL ROSTER

NORTH AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE

WATERTOWN SHAMROCKS

Watertown, SD Division: Central

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Casey Kirley

Asst. Coach: Griff Jeszka

Asst. Coach: Justin Kirchhevel

Greenwood Village, CO Mankato, MN Glen Ellyn, IL Surrey, BC Greenwood Village, CO Lunenburg, MA Bloomington, MN Warroad, MN Naujene, LAT Hartland, MI Shoreview, MN Roseau, MN Tinley Park, IL Virginia, MN Winnetka, IL Camarillo, CA Rogers, MN Elmhurst, IL West Fargo, ND Hudson, WI Prior Lake, MN Mahtomedi, MN Riga, LAT Freiburg, GER St. Louis Park, MN Grand Forks, ND Victoria, MN Rockford, MI Brookfield, WI Westminster, CA Louisville, CO

UNITED STATES NTDP

Plymouth, MI

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Greg Moore

Asst. Coach: Todd Krygier

Asst. Coach: John Draeger

Wien, AUT Chelmsford, MA Virginia, MN Rochester, MN Columbus, OH Houghton, MI Chicago, IL

Chippewa Falls, WI

Trencin, SVK

Greenwood Village, CO Mankato, MN Glen Ellyn, IL Surrey, BC Greenwood Village, CO Lunenburg, MA Bloomington, MN Warroad, MN Naujene, LAT Hartland, MI Shoreview, MN Roseau, MN Tinley Park, IL Virginia, MN Winnetka, IL Camarillo, CA Rogers, MN Elmhurst, IL West Fargo, ND Hudson, WI Prior Lake, MN Mahtomedi, MN Riga, LAT Freiburg, GER

WISCONSIN WINDIGO

Brookfield, WI Division:

Mound, MN Rancho Santa Fe, CA Saco, ME

Coaching Staff

Secaucus, NJ Orange, CT Chicago, IL Tokyo, JPN Wisconsin Rapids, WI Fond du Lac, WI

St. Louis Park, MN Grand Forks, ND Victoria, MN Rockford, MI Brookfield, WI Westminster, CA Louisville, CO 08/03/07 06/17/05 07/24/07 01/08/06 06/28/05 07/23/06 11/10/07

Head Coach: John Mitchell

Asst. Coach: Anthony Rohde

Asst. Coach: Graydon Skok

Iron Mountain, MI Chicago, IL Park Ridge, IL

Wien, AUT

Bemidji, MN Fort Worth, TX New Richmond, WI

Stillwater, MN Langley, BC Superior, WI

Chelmsford, MA Virginia, MN Rochester, MN Columbus, OH

Kokkola, FIN

Houghton, MI Chicago, IL

Blaine, MN

Chippewa Falls, WI

Trencin, SVK Mound, MN Rancho Santa Fe, CA Saco, ME

Secaucus, NJ Orange, CT Chicago, IL Tokyo, JPN

Wisconsin Rapids, WI

Fond du Lac, WI

Iron Mountain, MI

Chicago, IL

Park Ridge, IL

Bemidji, MN

Fort Worth, TX

New Richmond, WI

Stillwater, MN

Langley, BC

Superior, WI

Kokkola, FIN

Blaine, MN 04/20/06 08/15/05 06/28/07 07/01/06 04/25/07

Windigo’s Naeve commits to St. John’s

The Wisconsin Windigo of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are proud to announce that defenseman Cashen Naeve has committed to play NCAA hockey for Saint John’s University in the MIAC.

The 6’3 blueliner from the State of Hockey will stay in his home state to skate with the Johnnies in the fall. Naeve served as the Captain of the Windigo this past season and has played for the Wisconsin team for the past three seasons. The ‘04 skater hit the ice in 62 games, tallying nine goals and 19 assists. One of his goals was named the decider in a contest this season. He featured a +38 rating on the year and ranked second on his roster with his plus-minus rating. The Minnesota native

was named as a Top Prospect for the Midwest Division roster at the 2025 Top Prospects Tournament. In his 2023-24 campaign, the 21-yearold laced up in 52 games. He found the back of the net four times and notched 10 assists. The blueliner featured a +25 rating on the year. Naeve’s debut season in the NAHL saw him hit the ice in 63 games for the Windigo. He scored four goals and made 16 assists in his rookie season. The Captain played a total of 176 games in the NAHL with the Windigo and produced 61 career points. Naeve is one of 13 members of the Wisconsin Windigo to make a college ice hockey commitment.

NAHL ROSTER

Bolded Name Indicates Player with College Commitment

October

Oct. 24-25 Des Moines, IA. Lady Wild Pucktoberfest. 10U/12U/14U/16U-19U. Contact hockeydirector@ dmhockey.org. Register at www.dmyha.com.

Oct. 24-26 Woodbury, MN. Woodbury Ice Bantam A. Contact primehockeymn@gmail.com. Register at https://www.primehockeytraining.com/page/ show/9032612-tournaments-at-woodbury-ice-mac. Entry Fee: $1,200.

Oct. 31-Nov. 2 Woodbury, MN. Woodbury Ice Bantam AA. Contact primehockeymn@gmail.com. Register at https://www.primehockeytraining.com/ page/show/9032612-tournaments-at-woodbury-icemac. Entry Fee: $1,200.

November

Nov. 7-9 Albert Lea, MN. Bantam B. Contact brianne_mckinney@hotmail.com. Register at https://albertlea.pucksystems2.com/page/ show/10539-2025-2026-tournaments-. Entry Fee: $1,400.

Nov. 7-9 Luverne, MN. Luverne 12UA/10UB Tournament. Girls 12UA/10UB. Contact luvernetournamentdirector@gmail.com. Register at https://luvernehockey.sportngin.com/tourneys Entry Fee: $900.

Nov. 7-9 Rogers MN. Rogers Bardown Squirt C. Contact Tony Barnes at 763-670-6985or ryhatournaments@rogershockey.com. Register at https://tourneymachine.com/E163374. Entry Fee: $1,700.

Nov. 7-9 Spirit Lake, IA. Boji Blast. Peewee B. Contact hockeydirector@lakesareahockey.com. Register at www.lakesareahockey.com. Entry Fee: $900.

Nov. 8-9 Watertown, SD. Preseason Shakedown Tournament. Bantam A/B. Contact Lucas at 605881-5252. Register at https://www.watertownlakers. org/tournamentlist. Entry Fee: $800.

Nov. 13-16 Anoka, MN. Casey Orn Memorial Bantam Tournament. Bantam A/B1/B2. Contact tournaments@anokaareahockey.com Register at https://www.anokaareahockey.com/ page/show/5779303-bantam-a-b1-b2-nov-21-242024-Entry Fee: $1,300-$1,400.

Nov. 14-16 Albert Lea, MN. Bantam A. Contact brianne_mckinney@hotmail.com. Register at https://albertlea.pucksystems2.com/page/ show/10539-2025-2026-tournaments-. Entry Fee: $1,400.

Nov. 14-16 Brookings, SD. Brookings Squirt Winter Classic. Squirt A/B/C. MN/ND A/B1 Teams = SD A MN/ND B2/C Teams = SD B. Register at www. brookingsrangers.com. Entry Fee: $900.

Nov. 14-16 Des Moines, IA. Squirt Fall Classic. Squirt A/B. Contact hockeydirector@dmhockey.org. Register at www.dmyha.com.

Nov. 14-16 Fairmont,, MN. City of the Lakes Shootout. Squirt A/B. Contact Luke Ebeling at 507848-9016 or luke.ebeling@midco.com. Register at https://fairmont.pucksystems2.com. Entry Fee: $1,000.

Nov. 14-16 Luverne, MN. Luverne Peewee Tournament. Peewee A/B. Contact luvernetournamentdirector@gmail.com. Register at https://luvernehockey.sportngin.com/tourneys Entry Fee: $900.

Nov. 14-16 Little Falls, MN. Squirt B1/B2. Contact lfyhatournaments@gmail.com. Register at https://littlefallsyha.sportngin.com/register/ form/717472159. Entry Fee: $1,200 + $250 Gate Fee.

Nov. 14-16 Woodbury, MN. Woodbury Ice 12UA. Contact primehockeymn@gmail.com. Register at https://www.primehockeytraining.com/page/ show/9032612-tournaments-at-woodbury-ice-mac. Entry Fee: $1,200.

Nov. 15-16 Watertown, SD. Preseason Shakedown Tournament. Peewee A/B/B2. Contact Lucas at 605881-5252. Register at https://www.watertownlakers. org/tournamentlist. Entry Fee: $650

Nov. 21-23 Brookings, SD. Brookings Peewee Winter Classic. PeeweeA/B/C. MN/ND A/B1 Teams = SD A MN/ND B2/C Teams = SD B. Register at www.brookingsrangers.com. Entry Fee: $1,200.

Nov. 21-23 Northfield, MN. Rivalry on the River. Girls 15UA. Contact Adam at tournamentdirector@ northfieldhockey.net. Register at https://www. northfieldhockey.net/page/show/5939331tournaments. Entry Fee: $1,500.

Nov. 21-23 Owatonna, MN. O-Town Showdown. Girls 12UA/10UA/10UB. Contact oyha.adm. director@gmail.com. Register at https://www. owatonnahockey.com/. Entry Fee: $1,350-$1,450.

Nov. 21-23 Woodbury, MN. Woodbury Ice 15UA. Contact primehockeymn@gmail.com. Register at https://www.primehockeytraining.com/page/ show/9032612-tournaments-at-woodbury-ice-mac. Entry Fee: $1,200.

Nov. 28-30 Champlin Park, MN. Rebels Thanksgiving Classic. Bantam A/AA/ Contact Michelle at mmtripicchio@hotmail.com or register at https://www.cpyha.com/tournaments/rebelsthanksgiving-classic/21025. Entry Fee: $1,600.

Nov. 28-30 Chaska, MN. 38th Annual Brick City Classic. Squirt A/B1/B2/C. Contact brickcityccha@ cchahockey.org. Register at https://www.cchockey. org/brick-city-tournament. Entry Fee: $1,800.

Nov. 28-30 Edina, MN. 21st Annual Tradition Cake Eater Classic. Girls 15UA/15UB/12UA/12UB/12 UB2/10UA/10UB/10UB2. Contact tournaments@ edinahockey.org. Register at https://www. edinahockeyassociation.com/cakeeaterclassic. Entry Fee: Varies per level.

Nov. 28-30 Hopkins, MN. Raspberry Jam. Squirt B1/B2/C, Peewee A/B1/C, Bantam A/B/C. Contact hyhatournaments@gmail.com. Register at https:// www.hopkinshockey.com/program/boys-raspberryjam/12084. Entry Fee: Squirt: $1,350; Peewee B1/C: $1,350; Peewee A: $1,500; Bantam B/C: $1,500; Bantam A: $1,650.

Nov. 28-30 Richfield and St. Louis Park, MN. 51st Annual Minneapolis Cup .Bantam B1/B2/C, Peewee B1/B2/C, Squirt B1/B2/C.. Contact lPat Smith at psmith@mplshockey.com or 612-819-3465. Entry Fee: $1,650.

Nov. 28-30 Northfield, MN. Peewee B. Contact Adam at tournamentdirector@northfieldhockey.net. Register at https://www.northfieldhockey.net/page/ show/5939331-tournaments.

December

Dec. 4-7 Anoka, MN. Anoka Girls Classic Hockey Tournament. Girls 12UB1/B2/10UB1/B2. Contact tournaments@anokaareahockey.com. Register at https://www.anokaareahockey.com/page/ show/3401470-girls-classic-2025-12ub1-12ub210ub1-10ub2-. Entry Fee: $1,300.

Dec. 4-7 West St. Paul, MN. Salute to Squirts. Squirt A/B. Contact dlheutmaker@gmail.com https:// www.warrioryouthhockey.org/tournaments/saluteto-squirts-tournament/23329 Entry Fee: $1,600.

Dec. 5-7 Albert Lea, MN. Peewee A. Contact brianne_mckinney@hotmail.com. Register at https://albertlea.pucksystems2.com/page/ show/10539-2025-2026-tournaments-. Entry Fee: $1,300.

Dec. 5-7 Barron, WI. Bantam A (WI Levels - 2A, 3A, 4A; MN Level: B. Contact Mark Bell at 715-2057903 or bellmc78@hotmail.com. Register at www. bcyha.org. Entry Fee $800.

Dec. 5-7 Brookings, SD. Brookings Bantam Winter Classic. Bantam A/B. MN/ND A/B1 Teams = SD A MN/ND B2/C Teams = SD B. Register at www. brookingsrangers.com. Entry Fee: $1,200.

Dec. 5-7 Hutchinson, MN. Bardown at H-Town. Peewee A/B2. Contact Adam Simantel at 715-5315432 or at tournaments@hutchhockey.org. Register at www.hutchockey.org. Entry Fee: $1,300.

Dec. 5-7 LaCrescent, MN. Iced Apple Hockey Tournament. Peewee C. Register at www. lacrescenthockey.com. Entry Fee: $1,100.

Dec. 5-7 Luverne, MN. Luverne Squirt Tournament. Squirt A/B. Contact luvernetournamentdirector@ gmail.com. Register at https://luvernehockey. sportngin.com/tourneys. Entry Fee: $900.

Dec. 5-7 New Hope, MN. 15th Annual New Hope Classic. Squirt A/B2/C. Contact smelynchuk@ comcast.net or 612-940-8686. Register at https:// www.armstrongcooperhockey.org/. Entry Fee: $1,300.

Dec. 5-7 New Richmond, WI. Joe Swanda Memorial. Squirt. WI - A, MN B1/WI B, MN C. Contact Sarah Barron at 651-428-9474 or tournaments@ nryha.net. Register at www.nryha.net. Entry Fee: $875.

Dec. 5-7 Owatonna, MN. O-Town Bantam Showdown. Bantam A/B. Contact oyha.adm. director@gmail.com. Register at https://www. owatonnahockey.com/. Entry Fee: $1,550.

Dec. 5-7 Proctor, MN. Proctor Girls 10UB Tournament. Girls 10UB. Contact kris.bryant@

icloud.com. Register at https://www.proctorhockey. com/events/2025-2026-proctor-hockey-tournamentregistration/96704. Entry Fee: $1,000.

Dec. 5-7 Somerset, WI. Peewee 2B/3B/C1(WI) - Peewee C (MN). Register at https://www. tourneymachine.com/R163690. Entry Fee: $1,000

Dec. 5-7 Somerset, WI. Peewee 2A/3A(WI) - Peewee B (MN). Register at https://www. tourneymachine.com/R163690. Entry Fee: $1,200.

Dec. 5-7 Two Harbors, MN. The Great Lake Skate. Bantam B1. Contact Jesse Lundgren at tyyouthhockey@gmail.com or 218-834-8339. Register at www.twoharborsyouthhockey.com. Entry Fee: $1,000.

Dec. 5-7 Woodbury, MN. Woodbury Ice Peewee C. Contact primehockeymn@gmail.com. Register at https://www.primehockeytraining.com/page/ show/9032612-tournaments-at-woodbury-ice-mac. Entry Fee: $1,200.

Dec. 11-14 New Richmond, WI. Ryan Olson Memorial. Peewee. WI - A, MN B1/WI B, MN B2. Contact Sarah Barron at 651-428-9474 or tournaments@nryha.net. Register at www.nryha. net. Entry Fee: $950.

Dec. 12-14 Albert Lea, MN. Squirt A. Contact brianne_mckinney@hotmail.com. Register at https://albertlea.pucksystems2.com/page/ show/10539-2025-2026-tournaments-. Entry Fee: $1,300.

Dec. 12-14 Barron, WI. Peewee A/B (A Tourney - WI Levels - 2A, 3A, 4A; MN Level: B) (B Tourney - WI Levels: 1B, 2B, 3B, 4B; MN: C). Contact Mark Bell at 715-205-7903 or bellmc78@hotmail.com. Register at www.bcyha.org. Entry Fee $650.

Dec. 12-14 Brookings, SD. Brookings 15U Winter Classic. Girls 15U. MN/ND A/B1 Teams = SD A MN/ND B2/C Teams = SD B Register at www.

brookingsrangers.com. Entry Fee: $800.

Dec. 12-14 Des Moines, IA. Peewee Winter Freeze. Peewee A/B. Contact hockeydirector@dmhockey. org. Register at www.dmyha.com.

Dec. 12-14 Fairmont, MN. Bar-Down Showdown. Peewee A/B. Contact Luke Ebeling at 507-848-9016 or luke.ebeling@midco.com. Register at https:// fairmont.pucksystems2.com. Entry Fee: $1,250.

Dec. 12-14 Hutchinson, MN. Bardown at H-Town. Bantam A/B2. Contact Adam Simantel at 715-5315432 or at tournaments@hutchhockey.org. Register at www.hutchockey.org. Entry Fee: $1,500.

Dec. 12-14 LaCrescent, MN. Iced Apple Hockey Tournament. Peewee B. Register at www. lacrescenthockey.com. Entry Fee: $1,100.

Dec. 12-14 Little Falls, MN. Bantam A. Contact lfyhatournaments@gmail.com. Register at https://littlefallsyha.sportngin.com/register/ form/717472159. Entry Fee: $1,200 + $250 Gate Fee.

Dec. 12-14 Owatonna, MN. O-Town Peewee Showdown. Peewee A/B. Contact oyha.adm. director@gmail.com. Register at https://www. owatonnahockey.com/. Entry Fee: $1,450.

Dec. 12-14 Somerset, WI. Bantam 2B/3B/ C1(WI) - Bantam C (MN). Register at https://www. tourneymachine.com/R163691. Entry Fee: $1,100.

Dec. 12-14 Somerset, WI. Bantam 2A/3A(WI) - Bantam B (MN). Register at https://www. tourneymachine.com/R163691. Entry Fee: $1,400.

Dec. 12-14 Virginia, MN. Battle By the Bridge. Peewee B2. Contact Michelle at rryhatournaments@ gmail.com. Register at www.rryha.org. Entry Fee: $1.700.

Dec. 12-14 Walker, MN. City on the Bay Squirt BANTAM A TOURNAMENT

Dec. 5-7, 2025

Cost $800 • WI Levels: 2A, 3A, 4A; MN Level: B

PEEWEE A/B TOURNAMENT

Dec. 12-14, 2025 Cost $650

A Tourney - WI Levels: 2A, 3A, 4A; MN Level: B

B Tourney - WI Levels: 1B, 2B, 3B, 4B; MN Level: C

SQUIRT A/B TOURNAMENT

Jan. 16-18, 2026 Cost $650

A Tourney - WI Levels: 2A, 3A, 4A; MN Level: B

B Tourney - WI Levels: 1B, 2B, 3B, 4B; MN Level: C

BANTAM

B TOURNAMENT

Jan. 23-25, 2026 Cost $800

WI Levels: 1B, 2B, 3B, 4B; MN Level: C

Tournament. Squirt B/B2. Contact loomis@ shoresofleechlake.com. Register at https://www. walkeryouthhockey.com/page/show/612416tournaments. Entry Fee: $1,450.

Dec. 13-14 Woodbury, MN. Woodbury Ice Squirt

A. Contact primehockeymn@gmail.com. Register at https://www.primehockeytraining.com/page/ show/9032612-tournaments-at-woodbury-ice-mac. Entry Fee: $1,200.

Dec. 19-21 Albert Lea, MN. Girls 10UB2. Contact brianne_mckinney@hotmail.com. Register at https://albertlea.pucksystems2.com/page/ show/10539-2025-2026-tournaments-. Entry Fee: $1,300.

Nov. 19-21 Northfield, MN. Bantam B1. Contact Adam at tournamentdirector@northfieldhockey.net. Register at https://www.northfieldhockey.net/page/ show/5939331-tournaments.

Dec.. 19-21 Proctor, MN. Proctor Bantam B2 Tournament. Bantam B2. Contact kris.bryant@ icloud.com. Register at https://www.proctorhockey. com/events/2025-2026-proctor-hockey-tournamentregistration/96704. Entry Fee: $1,200.

Martin County Arena

1300 N Bixby Rd, Fairmont, MN

Contact

Luke Ebeling at 507-848-9016 or email: Luke.Ebeling@ midco.com

Dec. 19-21 Two Harbors, MN. The Great Lake Skate. Peewee B1. Contact Jesse Lundgren at tyyouthhockey@gmail.com or 218-834-8339. Register at www.twoharborsyouthhockey.com. Entry Fee: $925.

Dec. 20 Somerset, WI. Mite Jamboree. Levels 1/2/3/4. Contact dgilkerson@somersethockey.com. $20/Player.

Dec. 27-29 Des Moines, IA. New YEars Puck Drop. 10U/12U/14U/C House select level. Contact hockeydirector@dmhockey.org. Register at www. dmyha.com.

January

Jan. 1-4 Anoka, MN. Anoka Peewee Classic Hockey Tournament. Peewee A/B1/B2/C. Contact tournaments@anokaareahockey.com. Register at https://www.anokaareahockey.com/page/ show/3401470-girls-classic-2025-12ub1-12ub210ub1-10ub2-. Entry Fee: $1,300.

Jan. 1-4 Edina, MN. 57th Annual Tradition Invitational Tournament. PeeweeAA. Bantam A/AA.

City Of Lakes

Contact tournaments@edinahockey.org. Register at https://www.edinahockeyassociation.com/ ourtournaments. Entry Fee: $1,875/$1,975.

Jan. 2-4 Albert Lea, MN. Girls 12UB/10UB. Contact brianne_mckinney@hotmail.com. Register at https://albertlea.pucksystems2.com/page/ show/10539-2025-2026-tournaments-. Entry Fee: $1,300

Jan. 2-4 Brookings, SD. Brookings Junior Gold Winter Classic. Junior Gold B. MN/ND A/B1 Teams = SD A MN/ND B2/C Teams = SD B. Register at www.brookingsrangers.com. Entry Fee: $1,750.

Jan, 2-4 New Richmond, WI. Tiger Winter Classic. Peewee C. WI C/MN C. Contact Sarah Barron at 651-428-9474 or tournaments@nryha.net. Register at www.nryha.net. Entry Fee: $875.

Jan. 2-4 Northfield, MN. Squirt B. Contact Adam at tournamentdirector@northfieldhockey.net. Register at https://www.northfieldhockey.net/page/ show/5939331-tournaments.

Jan. 2-4 Owatonna, MN. O-Town Squirt Showdown. Squirt C. Contact oyha.adm. director@gmail.com. Register at https://www. owatonnahockey.com/. Entry Fee: $1,350.

Jan. 2-4 Proctor, MN. Proctor Peewee B2 Tournament. Peewee B2. Contact kris.bryant@ icloud.com. Register at https://www.proctorhockey. com/events/2025-2026-proctor-hockey-tournamentregistration/96704. Entry Fee: $1,100.

Jan. 2-4 Sauk Centre, MN. I94 Squirt B Challenge. Squirt B. Contact ashleymbruggeman@ gmail.com. Register at https://saukcentremelrose. pucksystems.com/i94tourneys . Entry Fee: $1,200.

Jan. 2-4 Somerset, WI. Squirt 2B/3B/1C(WI) - Squirt C (MN). Register at https://www. tourneymachine.com/R163692. Entry Fee: $900

Jan. 2-4 Somerset, WI. Squirt 2A/3A(WI) - Squirt B (MN). Register at https://www.tourneymachine. com/R163690. Entry Fee: $900

Jan. 3-4 Des Moines, IA. Mite Madness. Advanced and Intermediate Levels. Contact hockeydirector@ dmhockey.org. Register at www.dmyha.com.

Jan. 3-4 Hopkins, MN. Royal Rink Rally Mite Jamboree. Contact Anne at tournaments@ hopkinshockey.com. Register at https://www. hopkinshockey.com/program/royal-rink-rally-mitejamboree/15861. Entry Fee: $400.

Jan. 8-11 New Richmond, WI. Kittel/Parin PWO/ MIA Memroial. WI A, MN A/WI B, MN C. Contact Sarah Barron at 651-428-9474 or tournaments@ nryha.net. Register at www.nryha.net. Entry Fee: $1,000.

Jan. 9-11 Albert Lea, MN. Squirt B/B2. Contact brianne_mckinney@hotmail.com. Register at https://albertlea.pucksystems2.com/page/ show/10539-2025-2026-tournaments-. Entry Fee: $1,300

Jan. 9-11

Brookings, SD. Brookings 19U Winter Classic. Girls 19U. MN/ND A/B1 Teams = SD A MN/ND B2/C Teams = SD B. Register at www. brookingsrangers.com. Entry Fee: $1,000.

Jan. 9-11 Hutchinson, MN. Bardown at H-Town. Squirt B1/C. Contact Adam Simantel at 715-5315432 or at tournaments@hutchhockey.org. Register at www.hutchockey.org. Entry Fee: $1,200.

Jan. 9-11 LaCrescent, MN. Iced Apple Hockey Tournament. Squirt B1. Register at www. lacrescenthockey.com. Entry Fee: $1,100.

Jan. 9-11 Little Falls, MN. Peewee B1. Contact lfyhatournaments@gmail.com. Register at https://littlefallsyha.sportngin.com/register/ form/717472159. Entry Fee: $1,200 + $250 Gate Fee.

Jan. 9-11 Luverne, MN. Luverne Mite Tournament. Mites/Mini-Mite. Contact luvernetournamentdirector@gmail.com. Register at https://luvernehockey.sportngin.com/tourneys Entry Fee: $300.

Jan. 9-11 New Hope, MN. 11th Annual Knockdown at New Hope. Girls 12UA/10UB1/10UB2. Contact smelynchuk@comcast.net or 612-940-8686. Register at https://www.armstrongcooperhockey. org/. Entry Fee: $1,300.

Jan. 9-11 Proctor, MN. Proctor Peewee A Tournament. Peewee A. Contact kris.bryant@ icloud.com. Register at https://www.proctorhockey. com/events/2025-2026-proctor-hockey-tournamentregistration/96704. Entry Fee: $1,100.

Jan. 9-11 Rogers MN. Peewee A. Contact Tony Barnes at 763-670-6985or ryhatournaments@ rogershockey.com. Register at https:// tourneymachine.com/E163374. Entry Fee: $1,700.

Jan. 9-11 Spirit Lake, IA. Boji Blast. Bantam B. Contact hockeydirector@lakesareahockey.com. Register at www.lakesareahockey.com. Entry Fee: $1,000.

Jan. 9-11 Virginia, MN. Taconite Showdown. Mini Mite. Contact Michelle at rryhatournaments@gmail.com. Register at www.rryha.org. Entry Fee: $500.

Jan. 9-11 Virginia, MN. Mini Yeti Rumble. Contact Michelle at rryhatournaments@gmail.com. Register at www.rryha. org. Entry Fee: $500.

Jan. 9-11 Walker, MN. City on the Bay Peewee Tournament. Peewee B/B2. Contact loomis@ shoresofleechlake.com. Register at https://www. walkeryouthhockey.com/page/show/612416-tournaments. Entry Fee: $1,450.

Jan. 9-11 Woodbury, MN. Woodbury Ice Squirt B. Contact primehockeymn@gmail.com. Register at https:// www.primehockeytraining.com/page/show/9032612tournaments-at-woodbury-ice-mac. Entry Fee: $1,200.

Jan. 10 Somerset, WI. U8 Girls and Level 1 Mite Jamboree. Contact dgilkerson@somersethockey.com. $20/Player.

Jan. 15-18 Edina, MN. 49th Annual John E. Reimann Tournament. Junior Gold 16/Junior Gold B. Contact tournaments@edinahockey.org. Register at https://www. edinahockeyassociation.com/ourtournaments. Entry Fee: $2,000-$2,050.

Jan. 16-18 Albert Lea, MN. Squirt C. Contact brianne_ mckinney@hotmail.com. Register at https://albertlea. pucksystems2.com/page/show/10539-2025-2026tournaments-. Entry Fee: $1,300.

Jan. 16-18 Brookings, SD. Brookings Mite Winter Classic. Mite/Mini-Mite. MN/ND A/B1 Teams = SD A MN/ND B2/C Teams = SD B. Register at www.brookingsrangers.com Entry Fee: $300.

Jan. 16-18 Barron, WI. Squirt A/B (A Tourney - WI Levels - 2A, 3A, 4A; MN Level: B) (B Tourney - WI Levels: 1B, 2B, 3B, 4B; MN: C). Contact Mark Bell at 715-205-7903 or bellmc78@hotmail.com. Register at www.bcyha.org. Entry Fee $650.

Jan. 16-18 Fairmont, MN. Southern MN Ladies Classic. 10UB/.12UB. Contact Luke Ebeling at 507-848-9016 or luke.ebeling@midco.com. Register at https://fairmont. pucksystems2.com. Entry Fee: 10U - $1,000. 12U$1,250.

Jan. 16-18 Proctor, MN. Proctor Bantam A Tournament. Contact kris.bryant@icloud.com. Register at https://www. proctorhockey.com/events/2025-2026-proctor-hockeytournament-registration/96704. Entry Fee: $1,200.

Jan. 16-18 Owatonna, MN. O-Town Squirt Showdown. Squirt A/B. Contact oyha.adm.director@gmail.com Register at https://www.owatonnahockey.com/. Entry Fee: $1,350.

Jan. 16-18 Sauk Centre, MN. I94 Peewee B Challenge. Peewee B. Contact ashleymbruggeman@gmail.com. Register at https://saukcentremelrose.pucksystems.com/ i94tourneys . Entry Fee: $1,200.

Jan. 16-18 Spirit Lake, IA. Boji Blast. Squirt B. Contact hockeydirector@lakesareahockey.com. Register at www. lakesareahockey.com. Entry Fee: $800.

Jan. 16-18 Two Harbors, MN. The Great Lake Skate. 12UB. Contact Jesse Lundgren at tyyouthhockey@gmail.com or 218-834-8339. Register at www.twoharborsyouthhockey. com. Entry Fee: $925.

Jan. 17-18 New Richmond, WI. Mite Invitational. All Levels. Contact Whitney Bravo at nryhamites@gmail. com. Register at www.nryha.net. Entry Fee: $875.

Jan. 16-18 Barron, WI. Bantam B. WI Levels: 1B, 2B, 3B, 4B; MN: C. Contact Mark Bell at 715-205-7903 or bellmc78@hotmail.com. Register at www.bcyha.org. Entry Fee $800.

Jan. 23-25 Des Moines, IA. Bantam, Rumble at the RecPlex. Bantam A/B. Contact hockeydirector@ dmhockey.org. Register at www.dmyha.com.

Jan. 23-25 Edina, MN. 13th Annual Quinn’s Cup Jamboree. Boys Mite/Mini-Mite. Contact tournaments@edinahockey. org. Register at https://www.edinahockeyassociation.com/ ourtournaments. Entry Fee: $800.

Nov. 23-25 Hopkins, MN. Raspberry Jam. Girls 10UA/10UB2/12UA/12UB2. Contact hyhatournaments@ gmail.com. Register at https://www.hopkinshockey. com/program/girls-raspberry-jam/12033. Entry Fee: 10UA/10UB2/12UB2: $1,350; 12UA: $1,500.

Jan. 23-25 Hutchinson, MN. Bardown at H-Town. 10Ub1/12UB1. Contact Adam Simantel at 715-531-5432 or at tournaments@hutchhockey.org. Register at www. hutchockey.org. Entry Fee: $1,200 - 10U/$1,300 - 12U.

Jan. 23-25 LaCrescent, MN. Iced Apple Hockey Tournament. Squirt C. Register at www.lacrescenthockey. com. Entry Fee: $1,100.

Jan. 23-25 Minneapolis, MN. Minneapolis Winter Storm Girls Tournament. Girls 12UB1/B2. Girls 10UB1/ B2. Contact jlenz@mplshockey.com. Register at https:// mplshockey.sportngin.com/register/who/750303776. Entry Fee: $1,450.

Jan. 23-25 New Richmond, WI. Cally Briggs Memorial. U10/U12B (WI A/B & MN B1/B@ & U12B/B2). Contact Sarah Barron at 651-428-9474 or tournaments@nryha. net. Register at www.mryha.net. Entry Fee: $875.

Jan. 23-25 Proctor, MN. Proctor Squirt A Tournament. Squirt A. Contact kris.bryant@icloud.com. Register at https://www.proctorhockey.com/events/2025-2026proctor-hockey-tournament-registration/96704. Entry Fee: $1,000.

Jan. 23-25 Virginia, MN. The Wolverine Classic. 12U/12UB. Contact Michelle at rryhatournaments@gmail. com. Register at www.rryha.org. Entry Fee: $1,700.

Jan. 23-25 Walker, MN. City on the Bay Bantam, B/B2 Tournament. Bantam B/B2. Contact loomis@ shoresofleechlake.com. Register at https://www. walkeryouthhockey.com/page/show/612416-tournaments. Entry Fee: $1,450.

Jan. 23-25 Woodbury, MN. Woodbury Ice Peewee AA. Contact primehockeymn@gmail.com. Register at https:// www.primehockeytraining.com/page/show/9032612tournaments-at-woodbury-ice-mac. Entry Fee: $1,200.

Jan. 29-Feb. 1 Edina, MN. 41st Annual Bob O’Connor Tournament. Bantam B2/C. Peewee B2/C. Squirt B2/C. Contact tournaments@edinahockey.org. Register at https:// www.edinahockeyassociation.com/ourtournaments. Entry Fee: $1,450-$1,500.

Jan. 30-Feb. 1 Fairmont, MN. Red, White, Ice Invitational. Bantam B. Contact Luke Ebeling at 507-848-9016 or luke.ebeling@midco.com. Register at https://fairmont. pucksystems2.com. Entry Fee: $1,500.

Jan. 30-Feb. 1 Owatonna, MN. O-Town Bantam/ Peewee CShowdown. Bantam C/Peewee C. Contact oyha.adm.director@gmail.com. Register at https://www. owatonnahockey.com/. Entry Fee: $1,550.

Jan. 30-Feb. 1 Two Harbors, MN. The Great Lake Skate. Bantam B1. Contact Jesse Lundgren at tyyouthhockey@gmail.com or 218-834-8339. Register at www.twoharborsyouthhockey.com. Entry Fee: $775.

Jan. 31-Feb. 1 Albert Lea, MN. MITES. Contact brianne_ mckinney@hotmail.com. Register at https://albertlea. pucksystems2.com/page/show/10539-2025-2026tournaments-. Entry Fee: $200.

Jan. 31-Feb. 1 Proctor, MN. Proctor Squirt B2 Tournament. Squirt B2. Contact kris.bryant@icloud.com. Register at https://www.proctorhockey.com/events/2025-2026proctor-hockey-tournament-registration/96704. Entry Fee: $1,000.

Jan. 31-Feb. 1 Sauk Centre, MN. I94 Bantam B Challenge. Bantam B. Contact ashleymbruggeman@gmail.com. Register at https://saukcentremelrose.pucksystems.com/ i94tourneys . Entry Fee: $1,200.

Jan. 31-Feb. 1 Spirit Lake, IA. Boji Blast. Mite/Mini Mite Jamboree. Contact hockeydirector@lakesareahockey. com. Register at www.lakesareahockey.com. Entry Fee: $300.

February

Feb. 6-8 Albert Lea, MN. Peewee C. Contact brianne_ mckinney@hotmail.com. Register at https://albertlea. pucksystems2.com/page/show/10539-2025-2026tournaments-. Entry Fee: $1,300

Feb, 6-8 Edina, MN. 2nd Annual Girls Mite Ja.boree. Girls Mite/Mini-Mite. Contact tournaments@edinahockey. org. Register at https://www.edinahockeyassociation.com/ ourtournaments. Entry Fee: $800.

Feb. 6-8 Fairmont,, MN. Mitiest Mite Jamboree. Mites and Mini Mites. Contact Luke Ebeling at 507-848-9016 or luke.ebeling@midco.com. Register at https://fairmont. pucksystems2.com. Entry Fee: Mites - $250. Minis - $100.

Feb. 6-8 Luverne, MN. Luverne Bantam Tournament. Bantam A. Contact luvernetournamentdirector@gmail. com. Register at https://luvernehockey.sportngin.com/ tourneys. Entry Fee: $900.

Feb. 6-8 New Richmond, WI. Stars Classic. Girls U14/ U15. WI U14B/MN 15B. Contact Sarah Barron at 651-4289474 or tournaments@nryha.net. Register at www.nryha. net. Entry Fee: $950.

Feb. 6-8 Two Harbors, MN. The Great Lake Skate. Squirt B. Contact Jesse Lundgren at tyyouthhockey@ gmail.com or 218-834-8339. Register at www. twoharborsyouthhockey.com. Entry Fee: $775.

Feb. 6-8 Virginia, MN. Junior Gold 18U Frozen Battle. Contact Michelle at rryhatournaments@gmail.com. Register at www.rryha.org. Entry Fee: $1,800. Feb. 7-8 Woodbury, MN. Woodbury Ice Squirt C. Contact primehockeymn@gmail.com. Register at https:// www.primehockeytraining.com/page/show/9032612tournaments-at-woodbury-ice-mac. Entry Fee: $1,200.

Feb. 19-22 Rogers MN. Rogers Bardown Mite Jamboree. Contact Tony Barnes at 763-670-6985or ryhatournaments@rogershockey.com. Register at https:// tourneymachine.com/E163374. Entry Fee: $500.

Feb. 20-22 Somerset, WI. Midget/Jr. Gold. Register at https://www.tourneymachine.com/R163693. Entry Fee: $1,350.

Feb. 20-22 Somerset, WI. Jr. Gold 16. Register at https:// www.tourneymachine.com/R163693. Entry Fee: $1,350.

Feb. 20-22 Virginia, MN. Up North Wolverine. Squirt B2 Pin Trading Tournament. Contact Michelle at rryhatournaments@gmail.com. Register at www.rryha.org. Entry Fee: $1,700.

March

March 7 Blaine, MN. Miracle Gold World Junior Championship. 3x3: Mites/8U, Squirts, 10U. 5x5: Peewees/12U. Contact info@miraclegoldhockey.com. Entry Fee: $165/Player .individual registrations only)/ March 13-15 New Richmond, WI. Senior Mens. No Check. Contact Jeremy Melchert at 715-441-9324 or rocksnowjm@yahoo.com. Register at www.nryha.net. Entry Fee: $600.

March 27-29 Somerset, WI. Senior Men’s No Check. Contact dgilkerson@somersethockey.com. Entry Fee: $600.

April

April 2-4 Blaine, MN. Miracle Gold Easter Classic. 2011-2019 Boys/10U-19U Girls. Contact info@ miraclegoldhockey.com. Entry Fee: $1,875/Team; $165/ Player.

April 24-26 Rochester and Kasson, MN. Miracle Gold Hockey Med City Classic. 2011-2019 Boys/10U-19U Girls. Contac info@miraclegoldhockey.com. Entry Fee: $1,875/ Team; $165/Player.

July

July 31-Aug. 2 Blaine, MN. Miracle Gold Hockey World Cup. 2011-2019 Boys/10U-19U Girls. Contact info@ miraclegoldhockey.com. Entry Fee: $1,875/Team; $165/ Player.

PEEWEE

Nov. 14-16,

Peewee

Dec. 5-7, 2025

Peewee 2B/3B/1C(WI) / Peewee C(MN)

BANTAM TOURNAMENTS

Nov. 14-16, 2025

Bantam 2A/3A(WI) / Bantam B1(MN)

4-Game Guarantee - Cost $1400 Register: https://tourneymachine.com/R163689

Dec. 12-14, 2025

Bantam 2B/3B/1C(WI) / Bantam C(MN)

3-Game Guarantee - Cost $1100 Register: https://tourneymachine.com/R163691

MITE JAMBOREE

Dec. 20, 2025 Levels 1, 2, 3, 4 • Cost $20/player Register: Venmo@SYHA21 Contact dgilkerson@somersethockey.com

SQUIRT TOURNAMENTS

Jan. 2-4, 2026

Squirt 2B/3B/1C(WI) / Squirt C(MN)

Squirt 2A/3A(WI) / Squirt B(MN)

Cost $900

Register: https://tourneymachine.com/R163692

U8 GIRLS & LEVEL 1 MITE JAMBOREE

Jan. 10, 2026

Cost $20/player Register: Venmo@SYHA21

Contact dgilkerson@somersethockey.com

MIDGET / JR. GOLD B / JR. GOLD 16

Feb. 20-22, 2026

Cost $1350

Register: https://tourneymachine.com/R163693

SENIOR MEN’S NO CHECK

March 27-29, 2026

Cost $600 • Register: Venmo@SYHA21 Contact dgilkerson@somersethockey.com No Gate Fees

TICKETS ON SALE NOW