What starts out with dreams of glory, scoring the game-winning goal to win the championship in overtime, is played out over and over in the minds of youngsters who will watch the games on TV, knowing someday, this dream may come true.

The television rights to The Tourney at one point were valued more than the rights to televise the Minnesota North Stars for the season. WCCO won the bid in 1985, paying $1.55 million for the next three years, which was about what the North Stars were paid for their season. At that time, the average TV viewership was 250,000 with another 100,000 in attendance for the three-day tourney. The WCCO broadcast team included the likes of Lou Nanne, Herb Brooks and Doug Woog.

It is in these broadcasts that youngsters begin to dream, from mites on up, that one day, they and their friends will be playing in St. Paul for the title. Tickets are willed down within families, with multiple years waiting list for those wanting tickets.

Viewing now actually goes beyond state borders as people from around the country and in places around the world are drawn back to viewing on the internet. The Tourney is more than what you see on TV. It starts when a child first starts to skate, playing for his community, and stays with him long after graduation.

The actual tournament starts in sectional play featuring every team playing hockey and ends in St. Paul where the top eight teams in two classes vie for the championship. Just to get to The Tourney is a milestone that is highly sought. Once in St. Paul, the teams start with seeing each other at a banquet honoring them for being there. It is well deserved.

Some teams in the tourney this year arrived as No. 5 seeds in their sectional tournament. Rogers, who at the end of the regular season was top ranked in some polls, was eliminated by Wayzata. Another top sectional seed in Hill-Murray was upset by Gentry Academy. Both fifth seeds won their section but saw their championship dream end in the state quarterfinals.

From West 7 th Street, the bars and restaurants, as well as the hotels, all fill up, with fans from around the state gathering for a four-day hockey tournament that continues to grow and flourish. At the restaurants and bars, from Mancini’s to Tom Reid’s and Zamboni’s, the chatter is all hockey, with the talk of past games and players being replayed, as well as the games that are going on.

Up in the press box, the television and radio, as well as print publications are full speed ahead, trying to cover and share the game with their audiences. The officials from the tournament are also watching their colleagues who are now on the ice, keeping the game safe and in control.

One of the officials up top is John Boche, who has officiated at all levels, from his early days calling youth games, to Division I and Division III college playoffs. His son, Brenden, is now part of his crew, who last year were the officials for the Class 2A final that saw Moorhead hold on to beat Stillwater 7-6.

For both classes, in the quarterfinals, the higher-seeded teams didn’t disappoint, with top seeds advancing, setting up Hibbing/Chisholm vs. Mahtomedi and Warroad vs. Delano Class 1A semifinals.

The Class 2A tourney saw top-seeded Minnetonka take on Rosemount, with Edina and Moorhead battling in the late game of the semifinals. These two games were played with more than 20,000 in attendance.

Both Boches were on the ice for the semifinal between Rosemount and Minnetonka, where Minnetonka won a close battle, 4-3, coming from a 2-0 deficit, rallying and winning in overtime to get them to the championship. In the other Class 2A semifinal, Moorhead broke open a tough, physical game against Edina, winning 3-1.

Minnetonka coach Sean Goldsworthy, son of former Minnesota North Star legend Bill Goldsworthy led the Skippers to the title in 2018 and again in 2023 and was thankful to advance.

“This team plays its best hockey the back half of each period because other teams get tired,” Goldsworthy said.

Minnetonka player Ethan Sturgis noted that “our super-strong schedule during the regular season puts us in a good spot for overtime games.”

Moorhead coach Jon Ammerman recalled: “We were on our heals a bit to start the first five minutes, but not too bad, finished the first well, with the second period having the puck a lot but not getting shots on net, but loved the way we played, and in the third period we played outstanding from start to finish.”

Moorhead junior forward Zac Zimmerman noted after defeating Edina: “It feels great, just knowing how special it was last year with 20,000 people there playing for your community. I am ready to do it again.”

In Class 1A, 3-seed Warroad beat 2-seed Delano 6-3, with top-seeded Hibbing/Chisholm beating Mahtomedi 4-2. The championship finals did not disappoint, as both games needed overtime to decide a champion.

Class 1A: All North final for the ages
It’s only fitting that this year’s Class 1A final featured two northern teams, Warroad and Hibbing/Chisholm. It is well documented why Warroad in the state of Hockey is known as Hockeytown USA. Warroad is just six miles from the Canadian border and has less than 2,000 residents. Its ties to USA hockey is every team that has won the Olympic Gold medal for the United States has had a player from Warroad on its roster, with the Christian brothers Roger and Bill in 1960, David Christian in 1980 and Brock Nelson in 2026.

Cal Marvin, the brother not involved in the global Marvin Windows company and what drives employment with more people employed than the population of the town, is considered the Godfather of Warroad hockey. His passion for the game was evident in his Warroad Lakers Senior A Men’s hockey club that were one of the most famous amateur hockey clubs in North America and a major factor of Warroad becoming Hockeytown USA.

The Club was established in 1946 playing in the Manitoba Amateur Hockey Association, where they played for the Allan Cup. The winner of the Allan Cup, a Canadian nationwide hockey tournament, where the winning team represented Canada in the World and Olympic tournaments through 1960.

Warroad was the only club ever to win three-straight Allan Cups in 1994, 1995 and 1996, narrowly missing a fourth in 1997. The team folded after the 1997 season. This club built the tradition of hockey in Warroad with the Christians in Roger, Bill and Dave, along with former NHLer Henry Boucha playing for the Lakers.

Hibbing is no stranger to the state tourney, but has won just two titles, both when the tourney was a one-class tourney, the last being in 1973 and the first being in 1952, when they stopped Eveleth’s early dynasty of four-straight tournament crowns, winning in 1948, 1949, 1950 and 1951. Eveleth is now the home of the U.S. Hall of Fame.

Hibbing in 1973 were led by Joe Micheletti with seven goals and four assists in that tournament. He would later have a long NHL career with St. Louis and is now a well-known NHL TV Analyst. His teammates included George Perpich, who went on to coach the Hibbing team for almost three decades and had Frank Brimsek Jr. in net. Brimsek’s father was a star goaltender in the NHL from Eveleth, whose name is still honored with the top Minnesota goalie awarded the Frank Brimsek award.

Frank Brimsek was also involved in Eveleth’s run, as the NHL goalie, gave then Eveleth goalie Willard Ikola, a pair of goalie skates, and with these skates on, Ikola never lost an Eveleth game, winning back-to-back to back championships.

Warroad’s last state championships were in 2003 and 2005, where NHL and Olympic star T.J. Oshie led Warroad to two state championships.

The game was a rematch of the 1994 game with Warroad beating Hibbing 5-3 at the old St. Paul Civic Center. In that game, Tom Lund scored for Warroad, and his son Connor would get the Warroad Warriors on the scoreboard in the 2026 game. Hibbing/Chisholm had two family connections with Derek Gabardi being the uncle of Joe Gabardi and Eric Rewertz being the uncle of Whitaker Rewertz, who scored Hibbing/Chisholm’s first goal.

Warroad’s goalie, Patrick Kennedy, had to step up in the section tournament, where the team steamrolled it’s way into the state tournament with three lopsided wins.

He would be needed throughout the staet tournament,and in the state championship game he was peppered with 32 shots on goal in the first two periods, giving up only one to Rewertz in keeping Warroad in the game.

Isaiah Hildebrandt got Hibbing/Chisholm within one on the rebound of a scramble in front and on the 45th shot Hibbing/Chisholm tied it up on a Rewertz blast from the high slot with Kennedy screened. Less than a minute later, Hibbing/Chisholm scored to take the lead at 4-3 on a shot that rebounded off the back wall to the side of the net and Ben Galli quickly slid past Kennedy.

With 46 seconds left, Warroad tied the game upon a high tip from Gavin Andersen on a shot that was a deliberate pass from the top of the circle with the game going into overtime.

Both teams gave their all, and with the next goal being for a state championship, the players dug deep. Warroad ended the game 1 minute into overtime on a 3-on-2 rush which went from the left wing Rodrick Jackson to the high slot Andersen down low to Jackson and over to Ryan Shaugabay, with Jackson sliding the puck off the pad of the goalie onto the stick of Shaugabay, who buried his shot into the back of the net.

His fifth goal of the tourney was for the state championship, bringing tears of joy to Shaugabay and all of Warroad and would share his game-winning goal with his father, Son Shaugabay, who is an assistant coach.

Ryan Shaugabay noted, “We hadn’t won one since 2005, since T.J. Oshie, and this is a special feeling, everytime I looked up to the crowd, I started crying because this is such a special community, we live and breathe hockey, and it couldn’t have ended any better.”

Ryan had some huge footsteps to follow, as his brother Jayson won the 2023 Mr. Hockey Award and is a leading scorer in college hockey playing for the University of Minnesota Duluth. When asked if he had ever dreamt of scoring the overtime winner playing pick-up hockey, Ryan noted “so many times, when I scored the overtime winner, I slid into the corner and just started to cry, it was just an unbelievable experience.” 

Shaugabay noted that the team’s defense was the strength, giving up just four goals in the team’s last seven games entering the tournament. Kennedy played well, being called upon to be the team’s goalie after finding out late in the season Finn Hanson, the regular-season goalie, would be unavailable after getting injured late in the season. In the championship game, Warroad was outshot 47-33 with Kennedy keeping them in the game until the overtime winner.

In a game where it was sad to see one of the teams lose, Hibbing/Chisholm saw the agony of defeat, as they played hard and could have easily been the winner. They finished the season 26-3-2. The last loss being one that none of these players will forget.

With 10,518 in attendance, those in the building witnessed a game that will be talked about for years to come, with two historic programs battling to the end.

Class 2A: A classic double-overtime thriller
Minnetonka will also feel the pain. The Class 2A championship game, ending the four-day tournament, was even more painful for the Skippers. To recap, they had the game in control, up 4-1, when Moorhead put on a frantic finish, scoring three goals in the game’s last 10 minutes, with the last being with just 36 seconds left and their goalie pulled.

Minnetonka was playing in its seventh tourney, while Moorhead, the defending state Class 2A champion making its 18th appearance. Both teams were highly rated throughout the year and heading into the tournament were a toss-up for the rating and deserved to be in the title game.

The game itself started with Minnetonka taking a quick three-goal lead, as Moorhead sophomore goalie Will Arnold struggled in what seemed to be a bad case of nervousness and an unfortunate cross-checking penalty giving the Skippers the power play. They cashed in with senior center Jordan Johnson one timing a cross-ice pass from Danny Browing just 2:45 into the game.

A few minutes later, the Skippers added to the lead as right wing Ethan Sturgis carried the puck into the zone and drove toward the net and slid the puck from a very sharp angle toward the net. The puck went five-hole, between the skates of Arnold, and found the back of the net. The soft goal put Moorhead down 2-0 with 9:28 still remaining in the first period.

Arnold’s low point of the night was after giving up the third goal on another stoppable shot by
Minnetonka sophomore Cash Hardie, as he took the puck off the boards at center ice and beat Arnold with a wrist shot, with this being Hardie’s fourth goal of the tourney.

Down three goals, Moorhead would need a monumental effort, against a strong defensive team known for its defenders, and goalie Chase Jerdee with a season save percentage of .922. The Spuds have the offense to do that, and they started to mount a comeback midway through the second period as Micheal Herman found the back of the net with Tyden Bergeson’s 52nd assist of the season and 81st point, with Max Cullen adding his 34th assist of the season.

Late in the second period, Minnetonka made it 4-1 on Max Aronson’s goal. The momentum swung back to ‘Tonka, and with a comfortable three-goal cushion, time now matters as the Skippers are one period away from the crown.

Moorhead starts it way back with under 10 minutes to play with a power-play goal by Joey Cullen. The sophomore took a pass from Zac Zimmerman and snapped the shot past Jerdee to get Moorhead within two with under 10 minutes to play. Four minutes later, Zimmerman tipped a shot past Jerdee making it a one-goal game. Zimmerman was playing in the USHL for the Fargo Force to start the school year but returned to his team, to see if they could repeat.

With just 36 seconds left, Zimmerman scored to tie the game at 4, sending the arena crowd into a frenzy. The play became even more intense, with the crowd now standing for both overtimes. The teams opened up and raced up and down the rink, until Max Cullen sent in Evan Wanner who snapped a wrist shot past Jerdee to retain the Class 2A crown.

Moorhead Coach Jon Ammerman noted: “It was a tough start, no doubt about that, but just incredible character from the kids, there was never a murmur of doubt on the bench.”

Bergeson noted in the press conference that “never a doubt that we weren’t winning this game, never a doubt that we weren’t going to get back into the game, play our best hockey, and see what happens.”

Wanner noted this was a childhood dream, “A lot of kids dream about that, the title goal, OT winner, kind of unbelievable, and when it happens you don’t know what to do.”

His roommate, Drew Simonich, had the conversation the night before, at around 1:30 a.m., asking Wanner: “What would you do if you scored the overtime game winner, and I remember him saying ‘I would just throw everything into the crowd.’”

It happened just as they thought, with Wanner getting the OT game winner and equipment ending up in the crowd.

The attendance was 19,648 to go with Friday’s semifinal Class 2A session of 20,350 had a combined attendance of 40,000 for Friday and Saturday evening. Combined with Thursday’s two quarterfinal sessions, and the Class 1A total of 37,485, the tournament again exceeded more than 100,000 in attendance.

The Tourney is alive and well, but is now faced with challenges that have crept in, some within the last few years. Minnesota and its community-based model have worked well for more than 80 years, but the landscape is changing.

Several of the top players in the state are no longer choosing to stay playing for their high school teams, with the pull for the next level of junior hockey being too strong. With the advent of junior Canadian hockey now recruiting Minnesota players, offering more games and other perks, and with these players now able to play college hockey with the NCAA’s recent rule change, we need to be aware of the competition for the best of the best and what is at stake.

For now, we will relish where we are at, with two of the best hockey games in recent memory played for the 2026 State Championships. Congratulations to both Warroad and Moorhead, you worked overtime.

The post A Class Of Its Own appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

“It was depressing for a long time,” said senior Blake Biondi. “And we came together as a group this summer.”

After Wednesday’s quarterfinal game, the Hawks appeared comfortable and right back where they belong. Hermantown, this year’s 3-seed in the Class 1A tournament, beat unseeded Monticello 7-1.

Biondi, a Mr. Hockey finalist, scored a pair of goals in the first period, about three minutes into the game and with 50 seconds left in the period for a 2-0 lead, before completing

Monticello’s Alex Opatz congratulates teammate Riley Ronayne on his third period goal which spoiled Hermantown goaltender Jacob Backstrom’s shutout bid on Wednesday afternoon at Xcel Energy Center. (Photo: Tim Kolehmainen / Breakdown Sports USA)

his hat trick with 22.8 ticks remaining in the second for a 4-0 lead. His goals in the first helped give the Hawks some breathing room, said Hermantown coach Patrick Andrews.

“I think it was important to get one right away and then at the end of the first, too, to kind of get some separation going in the second,” Biondi said.

The game was a rematch of the 2017 Class 1A championship game, when Hermantown won back-to-back championships as a top seeded facing an unseeded Monticello team (then Monticello/Annandale/Maple Lake). Hermantown won all three state tournament games in overtime that year, beating the Moose 4-3 with 19.4 seconds left in the second overtime.

Monticello’s (20-8-1) goal came from junior Riley Ronayne when he sent the puck on net from center ice, and it bounced into the back of the net. “Pure luck,” Eric Nelson said.

Even with his team coming out on the losing side of Wednesday’s game, Nelson said anticipation for Friday’s semifinal between Cathedral and Hermantown – a game he said could have been a state-championship match-up – should be high.

“You’ve got two high-powered offenses,” Nelson said. “So, it should be a battle, a toe-to-toe battle. A heavyweight fight.”

Andrews said “Friday’s going to be a riot” in the semifinal against Cathedral. Biondi agreed that it’s going to be a great semifinal game, adding that they’re hungry and ready for the Crusaders.

Cathedral and Hermantown (22-3-4) will play in Friday’s first semifinal game after having skating to a 5-5 tie back on Jan. 3. Cathedral scored three goals in the third period, the last coming with 25 seconds left in regulation, to tie the game. It was a result that Zach Kilen, who scored a pair of goals Wednesday, called unfortunate from the Hawks side.

“We were up on them going into the third period,” Kilen said. “Just kind of laid back, thought we had it.

“We’re looking forward to a rematch with them.”

St. Cloud Cathedral opens title defense with dominating win over Mankato East/Loyola

Looking at the boxscore, it’s true that St. Cloud Cathedral had a blow-out victory with the 11-2 score.

A pair of 11s prepare to engage in Mankato East/Loyola’s Jake Schreiber (L) and St. Cloud Cathedral’s Ethan Cumming in the Crusaders’ 11-2 state quarterfinal win over the Cougars on Wednesday afternoon at Xcel Energy Center. (Photo: Tim Kolehmainen / Breakdown Sports USA)

But the game was actually tied 1-1 in the first period.

That lasted for a little less than five minutes though, before 2-seed Cathedral put on an offensive clinic to start the defense of its Class 1A title. The Crusaders (24-3-1) started the third period with running time and had 10 players tally goals in the first Class 1A quarterfinal game Wednesday afternoon at Xcel Energy Center.

“We have a lot of smart hockey players who can hit the open guy easily,” said Mr. Hockey finalist Blake Perbix, who had three assists and scored a power-play goal for a 6-1 lead.  

The Crusaders got a shorthanded tally 1 minute, 42 seconds into the game from senior defenseman Reid Bogenholm to get out to a quick 1-0 lead. But on the same penalty, the Cougars tied it up about a minute later with a power-play goal from junior defenseman Jake Schreiber.

Keeping the game 1-1 lasted a few minutes before the Crusaders scored a trio of even-strength goals before the end of the first period to take a 4-1 lead.

Crusaders coach Derrick Brown was happy his team stretched the lead from 2-1 to 4-1 pretty quickly in the first.

“I felt like after that we kind of put it in cruise control, and the guys did a lot of really good things,” Brown said. “We got some really good diversity. We got scoring from all four liens today. As a coach, you feel real good about that moving forward.”

Not only did the Crusaders have the scoring depth, they were able to mix up their lines and get all 20 players some ice time, including junior goaltender Ian Strong, who played the final 6:54 of the game after Grant Martin made nine saves in the game.

The Cougars got another one back late in the second period from Parker Anthony, but Cathedral scored two more times before the period was over – 40 seconds apart – to take a 9-2 lead into the second intermission on goals from Jack Smith, his second of the game and 25th of the season in only 15 games played and junior Cullen Hiltner.

In the running-time third period, sophomore Chandler Hendricks scored his first goal of the season to hit the double-digit goals mark for his team in the game.

“I just tipped it, and no one was on me,” Hendricks said. “And then I cellied.”

It was another victory for the Crusaders against the Cougars this season, with Cathedral winning 9-3 on Dec. 28 during holiday-tournament play. Fries called the Crusaders power play, which went 2-for-2, “deadly.”

“That team’s on first right now,” said Cougars coach Adam Fries. “They come at you hard. They come at you fast.”

The Cougars (14-14-1) have yet to win a state quarterfinal game in three trips. They’re 1-5 so far in state tournament play, also playing in the 2006 and 2018 tournaments. They won the 2018 consolation semifinal before losing to Thief River Falls in the consolation championship game.

“There’s never been a team in Mankato that’s brought back even a consolation championship,” Fries said. “I think that’s important for our guys. Why don’t we be the first? Let’s go out there and compete.”

The post Hawks Soar Into Semis appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

Hermantown leads the way into section playoffs

With a big finishing kick, seven different teams in Class 1A completed the regular season with at least 20 victories — and all are ranked in Minnesota Hockey Magazine’s final CrankyApe.com Class 1A regular season rankings of the season. The programs run across the state, from the far southwestern corner (Luverne) to the far northeast (Greenway and Hibbing/Chisholm) and almost everywhere in between. That balance of power is good for Class 1A hockey and should lead to an exciting state tournament in just over two weeks.

Three of those seven programs, however, will face off in the upcoming Section 7A playoffs, including No. 1 Hermantown, No. 5 Hibbing/Chisholm, and No. 7 Greenway. The other four 20-win programs all face tough tests in their respective sections, but are scattered equally (Breck in Section 2A, Luverne in Section 3A, St. Paul Academy in Section 4A, and St. Cloud Apollo in Section 6A).

1. Hermantown (21-2-1)

Last week: W 6-2 vs. Superior, WI (2/9), W 7-0 vs. Hibbing/Chisholm (2/11)

This week: Section 7A quarterfinals vs. TBD (2/18)

Hermantown laid claim to the top seed in the upcoming Section 7A playoffs courtesy of a resounding 7-0 victory over Hibbing/Chisholm in the regular season finale last Thursday. Hibbing came in hoping to leapfrog the Hawks for the top seed in the section. Instead, behind two goals each from Cole Koepke (31-22-53) and Peter Grytdahl (4-3-7), the Hawks rolled. As the top seed, Hermantown will face the winner of the 8/9 play-in game (International Falls and Eveleth-Gilbert) on Thursday at home. The Hawks enter the playoffs on an eight-game winning streak in which they’ve allowed no more than two goals in a game, and are a perfect 11-0-0 against Class 1A teams. As six-time Class 1A state runners-up, it looks like the state title could again go through coach Bruce Plante’s Hawks.

2. Breck (21-3-1)

Last week: T 4-4 at Mahtomedi (2/9), W 9-1 at Blake (2/13)

This week: Section 2A quarterfinals vs. TBD (2/19)

As expected, Breck picked up the top seed in the upcoming Section 2A playoffs and a quarterfinal game at Parade Friday against the winner of the 8/9 play-in game (Bloomington Kennedy or Mound-Westonka). Last Tuesday’s 4-4 tie at No. 4 Mahtomedi was Breck’s only non-victory in its past dozen games (11-0-1).  But the Mustangs rebounded to roll past rival Blake in the regular season finale, 9-1, sweeping their season series. Senior Mr. Hockey candidate Chase Ellingson (34-31-65) tallied a hat trick both games last week, while 13 different players recorded at least one point in the win over Blake. With apologies to Hermantown, Breck may be the deepest team top to bottom in all of Class 1A, which could be the difference as it makes a state tournament run.  On the season, seven different Mustangs have at least 20 points, while another five have at least 12 points.

3. St. Cloud Apollo (23-2-0)

Last week: W 5-3 at Hutchinson (2/9), W 4-1 at River Lakes (2/11)

This week: Section 6A quarterfinals vs. River Lakes (2/16)

While Section 7A may have the toughest trio of teams at the top, St. Cloud Apollo and Section 6A may be the deepest from top to bottom of any section in the state. The Eagles capped a two-loss regular season with the No. 1 seed in the section and a home quarterfinal game against No. 8 River Lakes. But it won’t be an easy path back to state, as there are landmines galore. On the strength of a 10-game stretch at midseason in which Apollo had eight shutouts, the Eagles lead the state in goals against (1.48 per game). Both of Apollo’s losses were by a single goal (2-1 at Bemidji in the season opener and 3-2 against Breck in overtime on Jan. 7). Senior Nick Althaus (23-2-0, 1.47, .930) is one of two finalists for the Frank Brimsek Award as the top senior goaltender in the state and is a two-time veteran of state tournament action.

4. Mahtomedi (16-6-3)

Last week: T 4-4 vs. Breck (2/9), W 12-5 vs. Simley (2/11), W 5-0 vs. Holy Angels (2/13)

This week: Section 4A quarterfinals vs. TBD (2/19)

As the top seed in Section 4A, Mahtomedi earned a quarterfinal match-up with the winner of the 8/9 play-in game between Simley and St. Paul Como Park Friday night at Aldrich Arena. The Zephyrs played as tough a schedule as any team in Class 1A, as 16 of their 25 regular season games were against Class 2A teams. In the nine games against Class 1A programs, Mahtomedi went 7-1-1, including last week’s 4-4 home tie with No. 2 Breck. Jake Anderson (10-13-23) scored twice, including the tying goal in the third period for Mahtomedi. Those goals brought Anderson into double-digit territory, one of six Zephyrs to do so this winter, led by Tim Kuivinen (20-9-29) and Andrew Kangas (10-33-43). Mahtomedi finished 5-0-0 against Section 4A teams, including a 3-2 victory over No. 2 seed St. Paul Academy back on Dec. 1.

5. Hibbing/Chisholm (22-3-0)

Last week: W 7-2 vs. Virginia/Mt. Iron-Buhl (2/9), L 0-7 at Hermantown (2/11)

This week: Section 7A quarterfinals vs. TBD (2/18)

Hibbing’s shot at the top seed in Section 7A went by the wayside as Hermantown waylaid the Bluejackets, 7-0, in the regular season finale last Thursday. It was the first time Hibbing’s tough defense had allowed more than three goals all season, as they are one of only three Class 1A teams to let in fewer than 1.80 goals per game (1.76). As the No. 2 seed behind Hermantown in the playoffs, Hibbing/Chisholm will face the winner of the 7/10 play-in game (Proctor and Ely) on Thursday at home. Junior defenseman Scott Perunovich (13-55-68) led the Bluejackets in scoring and is widely considered one of the most dangerous two-way defensemen in the state. But he’s certainly not a one-man team, as Hibbing has eight other players who recorded double-digit points, including leading goal-scorer Zach DeBoom (22-10-32).

6. Thief River Falls (19-6-0)

Last week: W 4-2 at East Grand Forks (2/9), L 1-4 at Bemidji (2/12)

This week: Section 8A quarterfinals vs. TBD (2/18)

With a sweep of defending Section 8A champion East Grand Forks this winter, Thief River Falls earned the top seed in the section playoffs and a Thursday night home game against the winner of the 8/9 play-in game between Lake of the Woods and Red Lake Falls. The Prowlers actually trailed 2-0 midway through the third period of last Tuesday’s 4-2 victory at East Grand Forks, but scored four goals in a span of eight minutes, six seconds to earn the victory. Actually, to be correct, senior sniper Ethan Johnson (40-17-57) scored four goals in that stretch, extending his team-leading goal total. Johnson has been a one-man wrecking crew much of the season, since opening with hat trick against Roseau in a Nov. 24 game televised on FSN. He’s been held without a goal in only four games all winter and only one game without a point.

7. Greenway (21-4-0)

Last week: W 7-2 at Northern Lakes (2/11)

This week: Section 7A quarterfinals vs. North Shore (2/18)

In what may be bulletin board material at Greenway, the Raiders were bypassed for the No. 3 seed in Section 7A by a .500 Duluth Denfeld squad. What that means is that the Raiders still get a home game Thursday against fifth-seeded North Shore, a team they beat twice, but they’ll end up having to face Hermantown in the semifinals instead of a possible championship game. Of course, one could point to the Raiders’ 4-3 overtime loss in a head-to-head meeting with Denfeld back on Dec. 1 as the reason for the slight. Since that game, the Raiders are 18-3-0, losing only to Hermantown once and Hibbing/Chisholm twice — the top two teams in Section 7A. It will be interesting to see the goaltending split in the playoffs between two of the Raiders’ LaDoux triplets: Mike LaDoux (10-3-0, 1.91, .920) and Sam LaDoux (9-1-0, 1.80, .918), both of whom have been outstanding this year.

8. St. Paul Academy (20-5-0)

Last week: W 5-2 at Blake (2/9), W 6-2 vs. Holy Angels (2/11), W 7-0 at South St. Paul (2/12), W 8-2 vs. Providence Academy (2/13)

This week: Section 4A quarterfinals vs. TBD (2/19)

A busy four-win week capped a 20-win regular season for St. Paul Academy, and earned the Spartans the No. 2 seed in the Section 4A playoffs. SPA begins its state tournament push Friday night at Aldrich Arena against the winner of the 7/10 play-in game between Henry Sibley and St. Paul Highland Park. A young SPA team seems to be coming of age in time for the playoffs, as they’ve won nine of their last 10 games, only falling in overtime to No. 2 Breck on Jan. 28. Only one of the Spartans’ top seven scorers is a senior — Justin Jallen (19-23-42) — and goaltender Andy Beran (20-5-0, 1.99, .916) is just a sophomore.

9. Delano (18-7-0)

Last week: W 12-3 vs. Waconia (2/8), L 1-2 at Orono (2/9), W 6-0 vs. Mound-Westonka (2/12)

This week: Section 2A quarterfinals vs. TBD (2/19)

Despite falling to Section 2A rival Orono last week, Delano held onto the No. 2 seed in the section tournament — Orono is No. 3 — which begins with a game Friday against the winner of the 7/10 play-in game (Minneapolis or Providence Academy) at Parade. While the loss to the Spartans didn’t affect the Tigers playoff positioning, it did knock them several spots down the top-10. Junior Ben Meyers (32-30-62) is hovering at the edge of the top-10 in both goals and points state-wide. He anchors the Tigers’ offense along with John Keranen (15-30-45), Brian Halonen (14-24-38), and Jesse Lawman (16-20-36). A possible section semifinal match-up with Orono won’t be easy as last week’s result indicated, nor a potential final against Breck, the only two teams to beat Delano in section play this year.

10. Luverne (20-5-0)

Last week: W 7-1 at Marshall (2/9), W 7-2 at LSH/St. Peter/TCU (12/12)

This week: Section 3A quarterfinals vs. TBD (2/18)

Welcome back to the top-10 rankings, Luverne. With a pair of victories to close out the regular season, the Cardinals broke the 20-win plateau and also regained the No. 10 spot in the poll that it lost in early December. Luverne also earned the No. 1 seed in the Section 3A playoffs and will host a quarterfinal game Thursday night against the winner of the 8/9 play-in game (Windom Area or Fairmont). While much of the focus of Luverne’s season has been on the scoring exploits of sophomore Jaxon Nelson (70-43-113) and senior Chaz Smedsrud (38-56-94), the Cardinals have plenty of scoring depth. Nelson leads a great sophomore class that also includes Kasyn Kruse (26-33-59), Nick Harder (22-21-43) and Declan Beers (18-24-42). A deep playoff run could net Nelson the state’s all-time single-season records for goals (currently 73 by Little Falls’ Ben Hanowski) and points (currently 135 by Hanowski).

Others receiving votes: St. Cloud Cathedral, East Grand Forks, Little Falls, Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato, Northfield, St. Paul Johnson, Sartell-St. Stephen, Duluth Denfeld, North Shore

The post MHM Boys Class 1A Top-10 – 2/15/16 appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

Top half stable while teams jockey for position below as season nears close

Believe it or not, we’re entering the final week of the regular season in Minnesota high school boys’ hockey. The regular season wraps up with games across the state Saturday, and both section and possible state seeding are still up for grabs.

The top of the Minnesota Hockey Magazine’s Class 1A top-10 rankings remained stable, but there was a shake-up of the order in teams in the back half. Thief River Falls made the biggest jump into the No. 7 spot with a pair of shutouts, and the Prowlers appear primed to earn the top seed in the Section 8A playoffs should they take care of East Grand Forks a second time. Greenway lost and fell a spot to No. 8, while St. Paul Academy was out-of-sight, out-of-mind, in dropping to the No. 10 position.

1. Hermantown (19-2-1)

Last week: W 2-1 at Brainerd (2/5)

This week: vs. Superior, WI (2/9), vs. Hibbing/Chisholm (2/11)

Winter’s storms robbed Hermantown of one of its two games last week, as Tuesday’s tilt at Farmington was cancelled. But the Hawks did travel to Brainerd Friday night and escaped with a 2-1 victory. Cole Koepke (29-22-51) scored both goals, including the game-winner just 16 seconds after Brainerd tied the score early in the third period. The senior winger has been on a scoring binge of late, tallying goals in four straight games with eight total goals. Despite ranking No. 1 or No. 2 in the state poll all season long, Hermantown might find itself as the No. 2 seed in the Section 7A playoffs should it lose the regular season finale against Hibbing/Chisholm. Both teams have yet to lose in section play and could be in for a monstrous section final match-up.

2. Breck (20-3-0)

Last week: W 10-1 vs. Minnehaha Academy (2/2), W 6-0 vs. Rochester Lourdes (2/4), W 9-2 at Providence Academy (2/6)

This week: at Mahtomedi (2/9), at Blake (2/13)

The Mustangs cranked up the offense last week to extend their winning streak to 10 games. In three big victories, Breck poured in a total of 25 goals, with eight different players scoring at least five points on the week. Chase Ellingson (28-30-58) led the way with six goals and eight points, while Mitch Machlitt (25-21-46) and Austin Heidemann (12-22-34) each had four goals. That’s the type of balance that will make the Mustangs a difficult out in the playoffs. Two teams who could challenge Breck in the playoffs are on the schedule to close the regular season: traditional rival Blake in a Section 2A battle and Mahtomedi, which finished third in last year’s state tournament.

3. St. Cloud Apollo (21-2-0)

Last week: W 5-3 at Fergus Falls (2/1), W 7-3 vs. Brainerd (2/4)

This week: at Hutchinson (2/9), at River Lakes (2/11)

After a five-week stretch in which it allowed almost no goals against (just four total in 10 games, with eight shutouts), the vaunted St. Cloud Apollo defense has been dented somewhat in recent weeks — but the Eagles continue to win. Since falling to Breck on Jan. 7, the Eagles have won nine straight, but have allowed eight goals in the last three games. That number is well above their season average of 1.43 goals against, which is still the best in the state (edging Hibbing/Chisholm’s 1.48 goals against). High-scoring defenseman Tanner Breidenbach (13-27-40) scored twice in last week’s 5-3 win at Fergus Falls and Skyler Rieland (6-5-11) added two in a win against Brainerd.

4. Hibbing/Chisholm (21-2-0)

Last week: W 3-1 vs. Greenway (2/2), W 7-0 at Eveleth-Gilbert (2/6)

This week: vs. Virginia/Mt. Iron-Buhl (2/9), at Hermantown (2/11)

Speaking of Hibbing/Chisholm’s defense, the Bluejackets took care of business in a pair of Section 7A games last week, including an important 3-1 victory over surging Greenway last Tuesday. Junior defenseman Scott Perunovich (11-48-59), Jake Bestul (15-28-43), and Riley Versich (10-10-20) scored to give Hibbing a 3-0 lead midway through the second period, and the Bluejackets stymied Greenway from there. Freshman goaltender Ryan Ullan (21-2-0, 1.35, .937) continued his outstanding rookie season by stopping 34 of 35 shots in the two games. The Bluejackets could still earn the top seed in the Section 7A playoffs, as they visit No. 1 Hermantown to end the regular season on Thursday night.

5. Mahtomedi (14-6-2)

Last week: T 3-3 vs. St. Thomas Academy (2/2), W 9-5 at Totino-Grace (2/6)

This week: vs. Breck (2/9), vs. Simley (2/11), vs. Holy Angels (2/13)

Over its past six games, Mahtomedi’s record is just 2-2-2, but don’t let that fool you. The Zephyrs are in the midst of their toughest stretch of the season and have proven they can play with the top teams in both classes. The two losses came to the top team in Class 1A (Hermantown) and second-ranked in Class 2A (Stillwater) while the two ties are against perennial Class 2A powers St. Thomas Academy and Hill-Murray. Last week, Mahtomedi actually led STA 3-1 in the third period on goals from Jared Fladebo (4-5-9), Jack Heinsch (10-14-24), and Tommy Strelow (8-10-18), but couldn’t protect the lead in an eventual 3-3 tie. This Tuesday’s game against No. 2 Breck continues that “murderer’s row” of games for the Zephyrs, who also got a hat trick from Tim Kuivinen (15-9-24) and six assists from Andrew Kangas (10-27-37) in a 9-5 win at Totino-Grace last week.

6. Delano (16-6-0)

Last week: W 7-3 at New Prague (2/5)

This week: vs. Waconia (2/8), at Orono (2/9), vs. Mound-Westonka (2/12)

Delano also had a game postponed due to weather last week, which sets up three quick Wright County Conference games to close out the regular season. The Tigers figure to be favored in all three, as they’ve only lost two conference games — both to Holy Family Catholic. In last week’s 7-3 victory at New Prague, Andrew Kruse (5-18-23) and Luke Olson (8-3-11) each scored twice, as seven different players picked up at least two points. The Tigers are likely locked into the No. 2 seed in the Section 2A playoffs unless they stumble this week, as they fell 9-7 against Breck way back on Nov. 24, also their only section loss against seven victories.

7. Thief River Falls (18-5-0)

Last week: W 4-0 at Roseau (2/1), W 6-0 vs. Red Lake Falls (2/4)

This week: at East Grand Forks (2/9), at Bemidji (2/12)

The Prowlers posted back-to-back shutouts last week, as goaltender Kade Nelson (18-5-0, 2.07, .902) made 31 saves in a 4-0 win at Roseau and then combined with Chase Myhrer to stop all seven shots in a 6-0 victory over Red Lake Falls. Lucas Magnusson (18-22-40) scored two goals in each game, while Ethan Johnson (35-17-52) posted three goals and two assists and continues to lead the team in scoring. Thief River Falls controls its destiny in the Section 8A seeding, as the Prowlers have won all nine section games and have a road date with two-time defending section — and state — champion East Grand Forks Tuesday night. The Prowlers won 5-0 in the first meeting on Jan. 19, the only section loss for the Green Wave.

8. Greenway (20-4-0)

Last week: L 1-3 at Hibbing/Chisholm (2/2), W 5-2 vs. St. Paul Johnson (2/5), W 6-0 vs. River Lakes (2/6)

This week: at Northern Lakes (2/11)

It was a good week for the Class 1A top-10, as Greenway was the only one to drop a game, and it did so at No. 4 Hibbing/Chisholm last Tuesday night.  Taylor Lantz (19-31-50) scored the only goal for the Raiders, who were outshot 24-17 by the Bluejackets. The loss likely drops the Raiders into the No. 3 seed in Section 7A behind Hermantown and Hibbing, who meet to decide the top seed this week. The loss didn’t send Greenway into a funk, however, as Kole Kalisch (28-23-51) scored twice in each a 5-2 win against St. Paul Johnson and a 6-0 victory over River Lakes. Greenway closes out its regular season at Northern Lakes Thursday night.

9. St. Cloud Cathedral (17-6-0)

Last week: W 7-4 vs. Little Falls (2/1), W 4-0 at Alexandria (2/4), W 6-4 at Duluth Marshall (2/6)

This week: at Monticello (2/9), at Holy Family (2/11)

With a second victory over Little Falls last week, St. Cloud Cathedral likely wrapped up the No. 2 seed behind St. Cloud Apollo in the upcoming Section 6A playoffs. After edging the Flyers by a goal two weeks ago, the Crusaders poured in five second-period goals in a 7-4 win last Monday night. Michael Spethmann (14-10-24) scored once in each period for a hat trick and Jake VanHalbeck (20-14-34) tallied the first two goals in the second to lead Cathedral to the important win. VanHalbeck kept the momentum going with two more goals in a 4-0 shutout at Alexandria and another two in a 6-4 win at Duluth Marshall. The junior forward’s six goals in three games were as many as he had scored in the previous 12 games. Sophomore goaltender Keegan Karki (11-5-0, 2.89, .887) has now started the past four games for the Crusaders, all victories.

10. St. Paul Academy (16-5-0)

Last week: idle

This week: at Blake (2/9), vs. Holy Angels (2/11), at South St. Paul (2/12), vs. Providence Academy (2/13)

The Spartans end the regular season with a busy week, as last week’s only game was pushed into this week’s schedule due to weather postponements. By the time St. Paul Academy visits Blake on Tuesday night, it will have been almost two weeks since its last game, a 4-3 loss at Breck. The only Section 4A opponent among the final four games is South St. Paul on Friday night. It’s the only match-up of the year between the two programs and a win should give St. Paul Academy the No. 2 seed behind Mahtomedi. Junior forward Jack Johnston (23-16-39) not only leads the Spartans in scoring, he also has a team-best five game-winning goals.

Others receiving votes: Luverne, East Grand Forks, Little Falls, Northfield, Blake, St. Paul Johnson, Sartell-St. Stephen, Minneapolis

The post MHM Boys Class 1A Top-10 – 2/9/16 appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

A pair of teams swap positions in largely static rankings

With only two weeks left in the regular season, many of the teams in the Minnesota Hockey Magazine’s top-10 rankings have nearly sorted out their potential section seeding — as well as state ranking. Last week’s biggest game was a match-up between then No. 4 St. Cloud Apollo and No. 3 Hibbing/Chisholm at the Municipal Athletic Complex in St. Cloud. After Apollo edged the Bluejackets, 3-1, the two teams predictably traded places in the rankings. But that was the only shift among the top-10 teams, as stability ruled.

Keep an eye on a couple of teams outside the top-10 who could be dangerous, however.

East Grand Forks welcomed back Grant Loven after a season-long absence, and he responded with two first-period goals in a 4-2 victory over Warroad. So much for shaking off the rust.

Luverne also rolled past New Ulm for a second time this winter, seemingly taking control of the Section 3A race. Super sophomore Jaxon Nelson also hit 60 goals and 100 points on the season with two weeks to play. The University of Minnesota recruit is in range of several single-season and career state scoring records.

1. Hermantown (18-2-1)

Last week: W 4-1 at Virginia/MIB (1/26), W 4-1 vs. Cloquet-Esko-Carlton (1/28)

This week: at Farmington (2/2), at Brainerd (2/5)

The Hawks have now won 13 of their last 14 games after beating a pair of northeastern Minnesota rivals by equal 4-1 scores last week. Leading scorer Cole Koepke (27-22-49) got Hermantown off to a good start in both games, scoring twice in the first period against Virginia/MIB and once in the first against Cloquet. The Hawks’ offense appears to be in postseason form, as they ripped a combined 95 shots on goal in the two games. Wyatt Aamodt (5-22-27) added four assists and Ryan Sandelin (19-23-42) had a goal and two assists on the week. As is coach Bruce Plante’s modus operandi, the Hawks face two solid Class 2A teams this week in road trips to Farmington and Brainerd. Looming the following week is a regular-season closing game against Hibbing/Chisholm, the Hawks’ top competition in Section 7A.

2. Breck (17-3-0)

Last week: W 5-0 vs. Blake (1/26), W 4-3 vs. St. Paul Academy (1/28)

This week: vs. Minnehaha Academy (2/2), vs. Rochester Lourdes (2/4), at Providence Academy (2/6)

It wasn’t as easy the second time around, but Breck remained unbeaten in the IMAC with a 4-3 overtime thriller against St. Paul Academy last Thursday. Austin Heidemann (8-20-28) erased a one-goal third-period deficit to send the game to overtime and leading scorer Chase Ellingson (22-28-50) sent the Mustangs home happy just 1:35 into the extra session with his second goal of the game. In their first meeting back on Dec. 12, Breck shut out the Spartans, 6-0. Ellingson also scored twice in Tuesday’s shutout of Blake, as did Carter Breitenfeldt (11-13-24). As befitting the two close rivals, there were 38 minutes of penalties in the game. Look for another intense game when they meet again in the regular season finale on Feb. 13 at Blake.

3. St. Cloud Apollo (19-2-0)

Last week: W 3-2 at Little Falls (1/26), W 5-4 at St. Cloud Tech (1/28), W 3-1 vs. Hibbing/Chisholm (1/29), W 3-2 at Virginia/MIB (1/30)

This week: at Fergus Falls (2/1), vs. Brainerd (2/4)

The Eagles’ long shutout streak came to an end last week, as they allowed more goals in four games (nine) as they had in the previous 13 (eight). But Apollo cranked up its offense enough to win all four and climb a spot in the rankings, courtesy of Friday’s 3-1 defeat of Hibbing/Chisholm. After the Bluejackets took a 1-0 lead in the second period, Brandon Bissett (17-20-37) went to work with a natural hat trick, spanning 13:28 over the second and third periods. Gino Lucia (15-26-41) assisted on the first two Bissett goals to give the Eagles the victory, while Nick Althaus (19-2-0, 1.27, .938) stopped 32 of 33 shots. Bissett also scored in the third against Virginia to break a tie, as did Carter Rieland (7-8-15) against St. Cloud Tech and Noah Bissett (11-6-17) in overtime against Little Falls, as the Eagles won three one-goal games.

4. Hibbing/Chisholm (19-2-0)

Last week: W 8-3 vs. Proctor (1/26), W 7-0 vs. International Falls (1/28), L 1-3 at St. Cloud Apollo (1/29)

This week: vs. Greenway (2/2), at Eveleth-Gilbert (2/9)

In a much-anticipated head-to-head showdown at St. Cloud Apollo last Friday, the Bluejackets fell shy in a 3-1 loss, knocking them down a spot in the top-10 rankings. Hibbing/Chisholm actually outshot the Eagles, 33-28, but couldn’t solve Apollo goaltender Nick Althaus. Big power forward Zach DeBoom (18-10-28) had a big week with five goals, scoring at least once in each game to take over the team goal-scoring lead from Jarrett Lee (16-17-33) and Jake Bestul (13-26-39). The Bluejackets have a big final two weeks exclusively in Section 7A play, hosting Greenway this Tuesday night and ending the season at Hermantown on Feb. 11. Those three teams look like the favorites in the section and these head-to-head meetings should sort out the seeding process.

5. Mahtomedi (13-6-1)

Last week: W 7-4 at St. Cloud Cathedral (1/26), L 0-4 at Stillwater (1/28), T 1-1 at Hill-Murray (1/30)

This week: vs. St. Thomas Academy (2/2), at Totino-Grace (2/6)

Mahtomedi has gone just 5-4-1 in its last 10 games, yet hasn’t dropped below No. 5 in the rankings during that stretch. How is that possible? Playing in the tough Metro East with a host of Class 2A teams doesn’t hurt, nor does a difficult non-conference schedule that included Hermantown (a 6-2 loss), St. Cloud Cathedral (a 7-4 win behind a hat trick from Tommy Strelow (6-10-16)), and Stillwater (a 4-0 loss) over the past two weeks. The Zephyrs split three games last week, going 1-1-1, including a 1-1 tie at Hill-Murray last Saturday. In each game, the shot totals were fairly even. It doesn’t get much easier this week, as the Zephyrs host St. Thomas Academy Tuesday night and visit Totino-Grace on Saturday. Mahtomedi will be battle-hardened as the playoffs begin.

6. Delano (15-6-0)

Last week: W 11-1 vs. Hutchinson (1/26), L 1-4 at Holy Family Catholic (1/28)

This week: vs. Waconia (2/2), at New Prague (2/5)

Delano lost to its Wright County Conference nemesis Holy Family Catholic for the second time this winter, ending a seven-game winning streak for the Tigers. During those seven games, the Tigers poured in 47 goals (6.7 per game), but could only muster one against the Fire, a late goal by John Keranen (14-22-36) assisted from Ben Meyers (27-23-50).  Along with Brian Halonen (12-22-34) and Jesse Lawman (13-18-31), they are the four Tigers with more than 10 goals and 30 points this season. Delano closes out its regular season with four straight conference games, beginning with rematches with Waconia and New Prague this week. In their first meetings, Delano won by a combined 9-3 score.

7. Greenway (18-3-0)

Last week: idle

This week: at Hibbing/Chisholm (2/2), vs. St. Paul Johnson (2/5), vs. River Lakes (2/6)

The Raiders received a welcome break last week, as heading into Tuesday night’s huge Section 7A game at Hibbing/Chisholm, they’ve had 10 days off. Greenway hopes to reverse its earlier game against the Bluejackets, as they lost 4-2 at home. Dylan Carlson (12-16-28) and Kole Kalisch (24-21-45) each scored in that game, as the Raiders had a 2-1 lead late in the second period. A Greenway win this week could throw the seeding meeting into confusion, with Hermantown joining the two as the likely top three seeds.

8. St. Paul Academy (16-5-0)

Last week: W 11-0 at Providence Academy (1/26), L 3-4 at Breck (1/28)

This week: at South St. Paul (2/2)

A rematch with Breck may have proved to St. Paul Academy — and other observers — that it has as good a chance as any other team in the top-10 to win the state title this winter. After losing to the Mustangs 6-0 back on Dec. 12, the Spartans took Breck to the brink before losing 4-3 in overtime last Thursday. Evan Dahlseide (5-14-19) and Matt Dahlseide (20-18-38) gave SPA a 2-0 lead just 40 seconds into the second period, but the Mustangs struck back to tie it. Justin Jallen (15-16-31) tallied early in the third to regain the lead, but the Spartans couldn’t hold it. Jallen and Jack Johnston (23-16-39) also recorded hat tricks as the Spartans shut out Providence Academy last week. SPA hasn’t scored fewer than three goals since the turn of the year, so its offense is peaking at the right time.

9. Thief River Falls (16-5-0)

Last week: W 7-2 vs. Lake of the Woods (1/26), W 8-4 vs. Crookston (1/28)

This week: at Roseau (2/1), vs. Red Lake Falls (2/4)

The Prowlers rebounded from a loss at Hibbing/Chisholm to roll past a pair of northwestern Minnesota teams last week, beating Lake of the Woods and Crookston by a combined 15-6 score. Leading scorer Ethan Johnson (32-15-47) racked up five goals and three assists combined and is now tied for sixth in the state in goal-scoring, while Michael Johnson (13-28-41) had a goal and five assists. With earlier victories over Warroad and East Grand Forks, the Prowlers are in control of the top seed in Section 8A. There is a rematch with East Grand Forks on the near horizon. The Green Wave are surging after getting Grant Loven back in the lineup for the first time all year.

10. St. Cloud Cathedral (14-6-0)

Last week: L 4-7 vs. Mahtomedi (1/26), W 5-0 at Virginia/MIB (1/29)

This week: vs. Little Falls (2/1), at Alexandria (2/4), at Duluth Marshall (2/6)

Cathedral’s hold on the final spot in the top-10 rankings is tenuous at best, after the Crusaders split two games last week. That said, Cathedral’s six losses are all to Class 1A teams ranked above it, including last week’s 7-4 home loss to Mahtomedi. Trevor Cornelius (6-9-15) tried to keep pace with the Zephyrs, scoring a hat trick, while Jeron Hirschfeld (1-13-14) had two assists. Still looking for a true “signature win,” the Crusaders have five games in the final two weeks of the regular season, including a home game against Little Falls and road tilts at Duluth Marshall and Holy Family Catholic, both Class 2A teams.

Others receiving votes: East Grand Forks, Luverne, Little Falls, Northfield, Sartell-St. Stephen, St. Paul Johnson, Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato, Blake

The post MHM Boys Class 1A Top-10 – 2/1/16 appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

Hawks solidify grip on top spot, Crusaders climb back in

A current four-game losing streak knocked two-time defending Class 1A state champion East Grand Forks from the Minnesota Hockey Magazine’s top-10 poll for the first time this season this week, the only shake up from last week’s rankings. The Green Wave were replaced by St. Cloud Cathedral, which won a pair of important one-goal games last week, and currently hold the expected No. 2 seeding in tough Section 6A behind No. 4 St. Cloud Apollo.

Otherwise, the top teams held their positions as the only losses among the remainder of the top-10 were favorites beating lower-ranked opponents (No. 1 Hermantown over No. 5 Mahtomedi and No. 3 Hibbing/Chisholm defeating No. 9 Thief River Falls).

With just over two weeks remaining in the regular season, the jockeying for playoff position — and possible state tournament seeding — will continue.

1. Hermantown (16-2-1)

Last week: W 9-1 vs. Proctor (1/19), W 5-1 vs. White Bear Lake (1/22), W 6-2 vs. Mahtomedi (1/23)

This week: at Virginia/MIB (1/26), vs. Cloquet-Esko-Carlton (1/28)

The Hawks kicked their offense into high gear last week, throwing in 20 goals in three easy victories, including a surprising 6-2 defeat of No. 5 Mahtomedi, a game in which Hermantown outshot the Zephyrs 45-23. Cole Koepke (24-21-45) notched a hat trick, assisted three times by Ryan Sandelin (18-21-39) and twice by Jesse Jacques (10-22-32). That line has powered the Hawks all year and ranks 1-2-3 in individual scoring, in the above order. Their 52 goals account for 54 percent of the team’s scoring, and no other player has more than six goals. Thursday’s home game against Cloquet-Esko-Carlton is interesting from a regional rivalry aspect, although it doesn’t affect any potential playoff seeding.

2. Breck (15-3-0)

Last week: W 5-2 vs. Chanhassen (1/19), W 16-1 vs. Providence Academy (1/21)

This week: vs. Blake (1/26), vs. St. Paul Academy (1/28)

Speaking of kicking offense into high gear, Breck rang up 21 goals in two victories last week, including a 16-1 thumping of Providence Academy last Thursday. Eleven different Mustangs scored at least one goal in the game, but none had more than the two each scored by Austin Heidemann (7-18-25), Justin Paschke (5-5-10), Mitch Machlitt (21-15-36), Will Blake (16-19-35), and Grant Parrish (8-1-9). When the Mustangs are at their best, that’s the scoring balance that makes them almost impossible to defend. Breck has an important pair of games this week, with IMAC rivals Blake and St. Paul Academy visiting Anderson Ice Arena. The Mustangs have yet to face Blake, but did beat SPA 6-0 back on Dec. 12.

3. Hibbing/Chisholm (17-1-0)

Last week: W 3-1 vs. Duluth Denfeld (1/19), W 6-0 vs. Warroad (1/22), W 3-2 vs. Thief River Falls (1/23)

This week: vs. Proctor (1/26), vs. International Falls (1/28), at St. Cloud Apollo (1/29)

Hibbing/Chisholm began the toughest stretch of its schedule by winning three times last week, allowing just three goals in the three home games against Section 7A rival Duluth Denfeld and perennial northwestern Minnesota powers Warroad and Thief River Falls. The Bluejackets’ Zach DeBoom (13-10-23) led the way with a goal in each game, including poking in the game-winner with 25 seconds left in Saturday’s one-goal win over Thief River Falls. The Bluejackets actually trailed 2-1 with just over a minute left, but crafty defenseman Scott Perunovich (10-38-48) tied it on the power play and DeBoom won it in the final minute. Hibbing/Chisholm continues with a pair of Section 7A teams this week before traveling to St. Cloud Apollo in a very intriguing match-up on Friday.

4. St. Cloud Apollo (15-2-0)

Last week: W 4-0 at Sauk Rapids-Rice (1/19), W 4-0 at Alexandria (1/21)

This week: at Little Falls (1/26), at St. Cloud Tech (1/28), vs. Hibbing/Chisholm (1/29), at Virginia/MIB (1/30)

In its last 10 games, St. Cloud Apollo is 9-1-0 and has eight shutouts. Yes, eight shutouts. The Eagles are the toughest team in the state on which to score, as evidenced by their state-best 1.06 goals against average. Section 6A foes Sauk Rapids-Rice and Alexandria couldn’t dent the Eagles’ defense last week, running their current shutout streak to 153 minutes (since losing 3-2 in overtime to Breck on Jan. 7). Senior goaltender Nick Althaus (15-2-0, 1.05, .946) leads the state in shutouts with eight, and is first in both goals against and save percentage. Who will score next on Apollo? Little Falls is up first on Tuesday in an important Section 6A game, as the Flyers are hanging on the fringe of the top-10.

5. Mahtomedi (12-5-0)

Last week: W 10-1 at Hastings (1/21), L 2-6 at Hermantown (1/23)

This week: at St. Cloud Cathedral (1/26), at Stillwater (1/28), at Hill-Murray (1/30)

After rolling past Hastings in its first game last week, Mahtomedi ran into the Hermantown buzz saw Saturday in Hawks’ country. The Zephyrs actually scored first against Hermantown, as Jack Heinsch (9-9-18) tallied 2:22 into the game to give Mahtomedi a 1-0 lead. But Hermantown responded with three goals in the first, outshooting the Zephyrs 22-9 in that frame, and rolled from there. The schedule doesn’t get much easier this week for coach Jeff Poeschl’s team, as it hits the road for three games in five days against St. Cloud Cathedral, Stillwater, and Hill-Murray — all ranked in the top-15 in either Class 1A or Class 2A. Mahtomedi may end the season with the most losses of any top-10 team, but it will be battle tested for the playoffs.

6. Delano (14-5-0)

Last week: W 8-0 at Mound-Westonka (1/19), W 7-5 at Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato (1/22)

This week: vs. Hutchinson (1/26), at Holy Family Catholic (1/28)

The Tigers stretched their winning streak to six games with two Wright County Conference victories last week. Two more loom this week, including a rematch with WCC-leading Holy Family Catholic, which handed Delano its only conference loss back on Jan. 5, 4-3. That was also the last game the Tigers allowed more than two goals until last Thursday’s firewagon game at Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato. Leading 5-1 entering the third period on two goals from John Keranan (13-22-35), the Tigers held off a hard-charging Dragons’ team. Perhaps the four-goal lead was misleading, however, as Litchfield actually outshot Delano 29-12 through two periods.

7. Greenway (18-3-0)

Last week: W 4-3 at Virginia/MIB (1/19), W 5-2 vs. North Shore (1/21), W 7-2 at International Falls (1/22)

This week: idle

Greenway enters a 10-day break on a four-game winning streak, although the Raiders needed overtime to escape Virginia/Mt. Iron-Buhl last Tuesday, 4-3. Kole Kalisch (24-21-45) scored 2:03 into overtime and Mike LaDoux (9-2-0, 1.54, .927) made 22 saves to lead the Raiders past the Blue Devils. Greenway also likely wrapped up at least the No. 3 seed in Section 7A with a second victory over North Shore. The Raiders’ three losses have come against section opponents, however, in Duluth Denfeld, Hibbing/Chisholm, and Hermantown — although they were by a combined four goals. After the 10-day layoff, Greenway returns to action with its final section regular season game at Hibbing/Chisholm.

8. St. Paul Academy (15-4-0)

Last week: W 7-1 at Minnehaha Academy (1/19), W 6-2 vs. Minneapolis (1/21), W 3-0 at St. Paul Johnson (1/23)

This week: at Providence Academy (1/26), at Breck (1/28)

With 11 wins in its last 12 games, St. Paul Academy is soaring as the season winds down. Last week, the Spartans rolled past three opponents by a combined 16-3 score, including a key Section 4A shutout of St. Paul Johnson on Saturday, 3-0. Jack Johnston (20-13-33), Dev McCabe (4-17-21), and Matt Dahlseide (19-17-36) scored in the first period and the Spartans cruised from there as sophomore goaltender Andy Beran () stopped all 23 Governors’ shots. In SPA’s four losses this winter, three have been by a single goal. The only other loss? A 6-0 shutout by Breck on Dec. 12. This Thursday, the Spartans travel to Breck for the rematch, hoping to improve on that result.

9. Thief River Falls (14-5-0)

Last week: W 5-0 vs. East Grand Forks (1/19), W 3-1 at Duluth Denfeld (1/22), L 2-3 at Hibbing/Chisholm (1/23)

This week: vs. Lake of the Woods (1/26), vs. Crookston (1/28)

Thief River Falls too control of the Section 8A race last week, shutting out East Grand Forks, 5-0 on Tuesday night at home. Ethan Johnson (27-12-39) continued his season-long scoring outburst with a hat trick, while Lucas Magnusson (13-18-31) and defenseman Brendan Bushy (4-19-23) each had two assists. The Prowlers did drop a one-goal game at Hibbing/Chisholm to end the week, a disappointing result as they actually led by a goal with 1:10 remaining. There is also still a rematch at East Grand Forks on the schedule for Feb. 9, but first the Prowlers must get past Lake of the Woods and Crookston this week, although both games are at home.

10. St. Cloud Cathedral (13-5-0)

Last week: W 4-3 at Little Falls (1/19), W 2-1 vs. Blake (1/23)

This week: vs. Mahtomedi (1/26), at Virginia/MIB (1/29)

The Crusaders finally reenter the rankings after falling out in mid-December after a three-game losing streak. But a closer look at their schedule reveals four losses to teams ranked ahead of them in the top-10 (No. 1 Hermantown, No. 2 Breck, No. 4 St. Cloud Apollo, and No. 6 Delano), and a loss to two-time defending state champion East Grand Forks. What kept the Crusaders out of the rankings was a true signature win, something they picked up twice this week with one-goal victories over rising Little Falls and Blake. Leading scorer Logan Neu (15-17-32) scored twice against the Flyers, rallying Cathedral from a late one-goal deficit, and netted the game-winner against Blake. Another “signature” game looms Tuesday night against No. 5 Mahtomedi.

Others receiving votes: East Grand Forks, Luverne, Sartell-St. Stephen, Orono, Little Falls, St. Paul Johnson, Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato, Princeton, Blake, Totino-Grace

The post MHM Boys Class 1A Top-10 – 1/26/16 appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

Breck back on Hermantown’s heels in minor movement in the ranks

There wasn’t much of a shakeup atop the Minnesota Hockey Magazine’s Class 1A top 10 rankings, even though two of the top three programs fell to northern Class 2A powers. Hermantown retained its No. 1 ranking even after ending the week with a loss to Bemidji, while Hibbing/Chisholm did fall one spot to No. 3 after dropping its first game of the winter against Grand Rapids. Otherwise, most other programs held serve as the “dog days” of January arrive.

1. Hermantown (13-2-1)

Last week: W 2-1 at Greenway (1/12), L 2-4 vs. Bemidji (1/16)

This week: vs. Proctor (1/19), vs. White Bear Lake (1/22), vs. Mahtomedi (1/23)

The Hawks had only scored fewer than three goals once in their first 14 games this winter until last week’s power outage. With just two goals in each game, Hermantown was fortunate to split a pair, edging Greenway by a goal and falling to Bemidji last Saturday. Two Hawks — Cole Koepke (19-17-36) and Ryan Sandelin (16-17-33) have double-digit goals this year and each scored against Bemidji. Dylan Samberg (3-10-13) broke a 1-all tie at Greenway with a goal midway through the second period, and the tough Hawks’ defense made that lead stand up, allowing only 18 total shots on goal to the Raiders. Still, the tight victory may signal that Section 7A is more than a two-team race, as Greenway has surged to No. 7 in this week’s poll.

2. Breck (13-3-0)

Last week: W 8-0 at Holy Angels (1/14)

This week: vs. Chanhassen (1/19), vs. Providence Academy (1/21)

Welcome back to the No. 2 spot in the rankings, Breck. The Mustangs have responded to a tough Schwan Cup Silver bracket over the holidays by winning three straight, including an 8-0 defeat of Holy Angels last Thursday. Mitch Machlitt (19-12-31) started the onslaught with a pair of first-period goals, both assisted by Austin Heidemann (5-15-20). Breck’s defense locked up the Stars the rest of the way, allowing just five shots on goal over the final two periods. Sophomore goaltender Linden Olness (13-3-0, 1.86, .900) had to make just 12 saves for his second shutout of the season. That’s the dominant Breck team that had held the No. 1 or No. 2 spot in the poll most of the winter and the one that will likely do so the rest of the way leading into the section tournaments in late February.

3. Hibbing/Chisholm (14-1-0)

Last week: W 10-2 at Superior, WI (1/12), L 0-3 vs. Grand Rapids (1/14)

This week: vs. Duluth Denfeld (1/19), vs. Warroad (1/22), vs. Thief River Falls (1/23)

After suffering its first defeat of the season, Hibbing/Chisholm dropped back one spot in the rankings. The Bluejackets were shut out by visiting Grand Rapids last Thursday, also getting outshot 42-22. Freshman goaltender Ryan Ullan (14-1-0, 1.54, .931) continued his strong play with 39 saves on 42 shots, but the offense that hadn’t scored fewer than three goals in a game all year was finally stymied. The Bluejackets rolled up on Superior, WI in last week’s other game, as Logan Radovich (8-9-17) notched a hat trick and Jake Bestul (12-18-30) and Dylan Mattson (5-7-12) each had two goals. Knocked in some quarters for its strength of schedule thus far, Hibbing will see an uptick in the coming weeks with games against Thief River Falls, St. Cloud Apollo, Greenway and Hermantown — all ranked in this week’s top 10.

4. St. Cloud Apollo (13-2-0)

Last week: W 4-0 vs. River Lakes (1/12)

This week: at Sauk Rapids-Rice (1/19), at Alexandria (1/21)

With its sixth shutout in the last eight games, St. Cloud Apollo continues to be the toughest defense to dent in the entire state. Through 15 games, the Eagles are allowing just 1.2 goals per game and have yet to allow more than three in any game. Noah Bissett (8-5-13) had two goals in the latest shutout over River Lakes, while senior goaltender Nick Althaus (13-2-0, 1.19, .943) stopped all 25 shots he faced. The tight defensive style and goaltending of Althaus is what led the Eagles to the Class 1A state semifinals last year and looks like it again will be the path to success for coach Pete Matanich’s team.

5. Mahtomedi (11-4-0)

Last week: W 7-0 vs. South St. Paul (1/14)

This week: at Hastings (1/21), at Hermantown (1/23)

Mahtomedi responded to a 3-1 loss at Tartan 10 days ago with a resounding shutout of South St. Paul in its only game last week. Jake Anderson (5-10-15) popped in a hat trick, more than doubling his season goal total, while Tim Kuivinen (8-7-15) added two goals and an assist as the Zephyrs outshot South St. Paul 40-18. Mahtomedi has a similar formula as Apollo, as the Zephyrs are anchored by a veteran goaltender in Will Swanson (9-4-0, 1.84, .932) and are turning up the defensive pressure as the playoffs approach. The Zephyrs hit the road for five straight games over the rest of January, including a tough road tilt this Saturday at Hermantown.

6. Delano (12-5-0)

Last week: W 5-1 vs. New Prague (1/12), W 6-1 vs. Orono (1/16)

This week: at Mound-Westonka (1/19), at Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato (1/22)

Speaking of defensive pressure, Delano has tightened up since losing back-to-back games around the turn of the year. In its current four-game winning streak, Delano has allowed just four total goals while scoring 21 of its own. Last week, that resulted in two big victories over solid Wright County Conference opponents, New Prague and Orono. Brian Halonen (9-20-29) led a balanced attack against Orono with two goals and an assist, while leading scorer Ben Meyers (25-18-43) had the same two goal-one assist game against New Prague. Keep an eye on this Friday’s road game at Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato, which has surprised a few opponents already this winter with a dangerous offense.

7. Greenway (15-3-0)

Last week: L 1-2 vs. Hermantown (1/12), W 3-2 vs. St. Cloud Tech (1/15)

This week: at Virginia/MIB (1/19), vs. North Shore (1/21), at International Falls (1/22)

Greenway was the furthest rising team this week, jumping all the way into the No. 7 position despite losing to top-ranked Hermantown. But the Raiders’ 2-1 loss was a signal that they belong among the top Class 1A teams in the state, as they went toe-to-toe with the Hawks for three periods. Joe LaDoux (6-11-17) scored the only goal against Hermantown, while Mike LaDoux (7-2-0, 1.33, .933) made 25 saves on 27 shots. They’re two of the three LaDoux triplets helping pace the Raiders — along with goaltender Sam LaDoux (6-1-0, 2.00, .918). Joe also scored in Greenway’s one-goal win over St. Cloud Tech on Friday night, while Sam made 25 saves on 27 shots. The Raiders return to the thick of Section 7A games this week with road games sandwiching a visit from North Shore on Thursday.

8. St. Paul Academy (12-4-0)

Last week: L 5-6 vs. Blake (1/14), W 8-1 at Rochester Lourdes (1/16)

This week: at Minnehaha Academy (1/19), vs. Minneapolis (1/21), at St. Paul Johnson (1/23)

A high-scoring, one-goal home loss to Blake last Thursday derailed an impressive seven-game winning streak for St. Paul Academy. During their streak, the Spartans allowed just eight goals, but Blake dinged them for six last Thursday. The last time SPA gave up that many goals? The game before the streak started, a 6-0 loss to Breck on Dec. 12. Could there be another run in store for the Spartans? SPA rebounded with a big win over Rochester Lourdes on Saturday, as Riley Bowman (4-9-13), Jack Johnston (18-13-31), and Will Kelly (9-9-18) all scored twice. This week, the Spartans host Minneapolis in their only home game until mid-Feburary — with road games at Blake and Breck in that stretch.

9. East Grand Forks (11-5-1)

Last week: W 4-1 at Roseau (1/12), L 2-3 at Bemidji (1/14)

This week: at Thief River Falls (1/19), vs. Grand Forks Red River, ND (1/21), at Grand Forks Central, ND (1/23)

The big question in East Grand Forks is when senior forward Grant Loven will return. Out all season with injuries, Loven may be back towards the end of this month, will be just in time to help the Green Wave’s playoff push. They’ve remained a top-10 team in his absence, however, thanks to the scoring of leading scorer Tanner Tweten (10-13-23) and seven other players who have between four and nine goals this winter. Casey Kallock (6-12-18) scored twice in a 4-1 win at Roseau last week, although Bemidji beat the Green Wave two days later. This week is big for the East siders, as they play two rivals from Grand Forks in the Gambucci Cup series, as well as traveling to Section 8A rival Thief River Falls.

10. Thief River Falls (12-4-0)

Last week: W 6-0 at Kittson Central (1/12), W 4-3 vs. Warroad (1/14)

This week: vs. East Grand Forks (1/19), at Duluth Denfeld (1/22), at Hibbing/Chisholm (1/23)

With two games remaining against East Grand Forks, including a home game this Tuesday night, Thief River Falls held serve as the chief rival to the Green Wave’s recent dominance in Section 8A. The Prowlers dispatched Kittson Central in a shutout to start last week, as Lucas Magnusson (12-15-27) had two goals and Kade Nelson (12-4-0, 2.31, .895) made eight saves for the shutout. It was a little hairier against Warroad, however, as the Prowlers rallied from a 3-1 third period deficit to beat the Warriors in overtime. Magnusson netted the game-winner just 2:38 into the extra session, following late third-period goals by Michael Johnson (9-22-31) and Ethan Johnson (23-11-34).

Others receiving votes: St. Cloud Cathedral, Luverne, Sartell-St. Stephen, Orono, Little Falls, St. Paul Johnson, Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato

The post MHM Boys Class 1A Top-10 – 1/19/16 appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

Hermantown holds serve while Breck, Hibbing/Chisholm step up

As the unofficial second half of the regular season got underway last week, most of the top teams in the Minnesota Hockey Magazine’s Class 1A top 10 rankings took care of business. There weren’t many moves, shy of the shuffling of No. 3 Breck and No. 4 St. Cloud Apollo following their head-to-head battle last Thursday.

Apollo entered as the higher-ranked team, but dropped behind the Mustangs after a tight 3-2 loss that signified how little separation there is between the two teams. It was the second straight overtime thriller for the two, as Apollo claimed a 1-0 win in last year’s Class 1A state tournament quarterfinals. This time, Breck got its revenge as Will Blake scored just under six minutes into overtime to end a two-game losing skid.

Elsewhere, Hibbing/Chisholm remained unbeaten but had to squeak out a pair of one-goal victories, while Greenway and East Grand Forks rolled to impressive weeks and moved up one spot each in the rankings.

1. Hermantown (12-1-1)

Last week: W 5-0 at Grand Rapids (1/5), W 6-2 vs. St. Cloud Cathedral (1/8)

This week: at Greenway (1/12), vs. Bemidji (1/16)

The Hawks ran their winning streak to seven behind a pair of good victories over perennially strong programs, a 5-0 shutout at Grand Rapids and a 6-2 home win over St. Cloud Cathedral. The Thunderhawks actually outshot Hermantown 29-28, but veteran goaltender Luke Olson (8-1-0, 1.73, .932) stopped all 29 for the shutout. Standout sophomore Tyler Watkins (6-6-12) had two goals against Grand Rapids and a goal and two assists against Cathedral and appears to be breaking out. Hermantown has a Section 7A test against rising Greenway this week. It’s a chance to see if the Raiders can join in the top two in the section, or if Hermantown is again the favorite.

2. Hibbing/Chisholm (13-0-0)

Last week: W 3-2 vs. Cloquet-Esko-Carlton (1/5), W 3-2 at Virginia/MIB (1/7)

This week: at Superior, WI (1/12), vs. Grand Rapids (1/14)

Hibbing/Chisholm remains unbeaten, but it wasn’t easy last week, as the Bluejackets squeezed out a pair of one-goal victories over Cloquet and Virginia. It took late heroics, as after leading scorer Scott Perunovich (9-29-38) scored with three minutes remaining against Cloquet, the Lumberjacks cut the lead to one in the final minute. The Bluejackets trailed in the third period against Virginia, but Zach DeBoom (9-7-16) tied it just 18 seconds after Virginia took the lead and Riley Versich (5-6-11) scored with 21 seconds left to win it. Hibbing has yet to allow more than three goals in a game this year and only have done that once, but the schedule ramps up in the coming weeks, beginning with Thursday’s home game against Grand Rapids.

3. Breck (12-3-0)

Last week: W 3-2 at St. Cloud Apollo (1/7), W 6-3 at Moorhead (1/9)

This week: at Holy Angels (1/14)

The Mustangs responded from a difficult Schwan’s Cup Silver result (losing back-to-back games to finish fourth), by climbing over St. Cloud Apollo in the rankings, courtesy of a head-to-head overtime victory last week. Will Blake (10-15-25) scored 5:50 into overtime against Apollo and sophomore goaltender Linden Olness (12-3-0, 2.00, .896) stopped 30 of 32 shots. The victory also avenged an overtime loss to Apollo in last year’s Class 1A state quarterfinals. Breck also surged past Moorhead in its other game last week, scoring the final three goals to beat the Spuds, 6-3. Leading scorer Chase Ellingson (16-24-40) tallied two goals and Tyler Scott (10-18-28 added a goal and three assists. Breck’s schedule eases up with just one game this week at Holy Angels.

4. St. Cloud Apollo (12-2-0)

Last week: W 5-0 at Willmar (1/4), W 2-0 at Brainerd (1/5), L 2-3 vs. Breck (1/7)

This week: vs. River Lakes (1/12)

Apollo’s loss to Breck ended a string of six games in which the Eagles had five shutouts, yet at 1.29 goals against per game, Apollo still has the lowest goals against average of any team in the state. In an amazing span of 352 minutes, 22 seconds — from a goal by Mankato West’s Jimmy Miller on Dec. 19 to a goal by Breck’s Tyler Scott on Jan. 7 — Apollo senior goaltender Nick Althaus (12-2-0, 1.27, .938) allowed just one total goal. That’s a tribute to Althaus and the team defensive played by the Eagles, including top defensemen Tanner Breidenbach (9-15-24) and Brandon Baker (2-9-11), and terrific backchecking forwards, such as Brandon Bissett (13-14-27), who had both goals against Breck.

5. Mahtomedi (10-4-0)

Last week: W 2-1 at St. Thomas Academy (1/7), L 1-3 at Tartan (1/9)

This week: vs. South St. Paul (1/14)

The Zephyrs split a pair of low-scoring Metro East Conference games against Class 2A opponents last week, edging St. Thomas Academy on a third-period goal by Andrew Kangas (8-15-23) and falling to Tartan, despite outshooting the Titans 35-26. That continues a streak of five games decided by two goals or less, the last four with neither team scoring more than three goals. On the season, Mahtomedi has had 10 of its 14 games decided by two goals or less, posting a 6-4-0 mark in those games. Leading scorer Luke Posner (12-12-24) is the only Zephyr with double-digit goals, although nine others have scored at least two goals.

6. St. Paul Academy (11-3-0)

Last week: W 3-0 vs. Minnehaha Academy (1/7), W 8-1 vs. Mankato West (1/9)

This week: vs. Blake (1/14), at Rochester Lourdes (1/16)

Following up on its championship in the Heritage Holiday Classic in Duluth, St. Paul Academy allowed one total goal in two victories last week. Sophomore goaltender Andy Beran (11-3-0, 2.09, .912) had a scoreless streak of 176 minutes, 52 seconds broken in the third period against Mankato West, but the Spartans’ offense had already staked him to a 6-0 lead. Jack Johnston (15-11-26) netted a hat trick against West, while sophomore Dev McCabe (2-11-13) added his first two goals of the season. Johnston, just a junior, also scored against Minnehaha Academy and leads the Spartans in goals and points. SPA has won seven straight games since losing to Breck in mid-December.

7. Delano (10-5-0)

Last week: L 3-4 vs. Holy Family (1/5), W 4-2 at Waconia (1/7), W 6-0 vs. Rochester Lourdes (1/9)

This week: vs. New Prague (1/12), vs. Orono (1/16)

A tough first period landed Delano in a big hole against Wright County Conference rival Holy Family Catholic last Tuesday, but the Tigers rallied to push the Fire to the end. Outshot 22-7 and outscored 3-0 in the first, Delano got goals from Peter Kruse (4-4-8), Luke Olson (4-0-4) and leading scorer Ben Meyers (23-14-37) over the final 30 minutes and outshot the Fire 20-18 in that span. But the early hole was too deep as the Tigers suffered their fifth loss of the year. Meyers, a junior forward, scored four more times in the week, netting a hat trick against Rochester Lourdes and a goal against Waconia, both victories for Delano. Two more strong Wright County Conference foes visit Delano this week, New Prague on Tuesday and Orono on Saturday.

8. East Grand Forks (10-4-1)

Last week: W 3-0 at Warroad (1/5), W 9-0 vs. Lake of the Woods (1/9)

This week: at Roseau (1/12), at Bemidji (1/14)

The two-time defending Class 1A state champions inched up a spot in the rankings, thanks to back-to-back shutouts of Warroad and Lake of the Woods last week. Trevor Selk (5-12-17) tallied two goals in the victory at Warroad, while Tanner Tweten (10-11-21) led the offensive charge against Lake of the Woods with two goals. Goaltender Jarod Reak (10-4-1, 2.27, .877) earned both shutouts, although he only saw a total of 25 shots in the two games as the Green Wave’s defense tightened up. Reak, a senior, is on an active 148-minute, 13-second shutout streak, although continuing it will get tougher. The Green Wave step up a class this week, traveling to northwest Class 2A powers Roseau and Bemidji.

9. Greenway (14-2-0)

Last week: W 6-0 at North Shore (1/5), W 10-1 vs. International Falls (1/7)

This week: vs. Hermantown (1/12), vs. St. Cloud Tech (1/15)

Next? Greenway passed a big Section 7A test last Tuesday by shutting out North Shore on the road, 6-0, behind a hat trick from Kole Kalisch (21-18-39). Both the Raiders and Storm had been surging and hoped to close the gap on Hermantown and Hibbing atop the section rankings. Greenway did just that, and now gets to visit Hermantown this Tuesday night in an even bigger test. The Raiders can certainly score, as they poured in 16 goals in two victories last week, but their defense was also impressive, allowing only eight shots on goal to North Shore and one total goal against goaltender Mike LaDoux (7-1-0, 1.25, .934). Kalisch capped off his big week with two more goals in a 10-1 rout of International Falls last Thursday and leads Greenway in goals.

10. Thief River Falls (10-4-0)

Last week: W 10-0 at Park Rapids (1/5), L 2-4 vs. Moorhead (1/7)

This week: at Kittson Central (1/12), vs. Warroad (1/14)

The Prowlers dropped two spots in the rankings after falling to Moorhead last Thursday, but have still only lost to two Class 1A teams all year (No. 1 Hermantown and No. 3 Breck). That’s enough to keep the Prowlers in the top-10 and they certainly have argument for being ranked even higher. Leading scorer Ethan Johnson (22-9-31) poured in four goals in a 10-0 blitzing of Park Rapids Area and assisted on both goals — by Wyatt Ortloff (3-9-12) and Michael Johnson (7-19-26) — in the loss to Moorhead. A big traditional rivalry game looms on Thursday against Warroad.

Others receiving votes: St. Cloud Cathedral, Luverne, Sartell-St. Stephen, Orono, Little Falls, St. Paul Johnson, Northfield, Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato, North Shore

The post MHM Boys Class 1A Top-10 – 1/11/16 appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

Hawks soar back to the top while Greenway climbs aboard

There are few post-holiday blues in the Minnesota Hockey Magazine’s Class 1A top-10 rankings this week, as tournament champions adorn the polls. Six of our top-10 teams either won their respective holiday events or finished unbeaten in a round-robin format event, an impressive showing against both top Class 1A opponents and solid Class 2A foes.

Hermantown recaptured the top spot in our polls after sweeping the field at the Hilltopper Holiday Classic in Duluth, while Breck tumbled to the No. 4 spot after losing two of three in the Schwan Cup Silver Division. We think the Mustangs are better than that ranking, but results matter, even over the holidays. St. Cloud Apollo climbed a spot after allowing one total goal in three games at the Granite City Classic, while Hibbing/Chisholm posted two shutouts to remain unbeaten and climb to No. 3.

And welcome to Greenway, the newest team to grace the rankings at No. 10 after winning the Schwan Cup Bronze Division title.

1. Hermantown (10-1-1)

Last week: at Hilltopper Holiday Classic — W 5-2 vs. Delano (12/29), W 6-3 vs. Roseville (12/30), W 8-3 vs. Cloquet-Esko-Carlton (12/31)

This week: at Grand Rapids (1/5), vs. St. Cloud Cathedral (1/8)

The Hawks flexed their offensive muscle at Duluth Marshall’s annual holiday tournament, scoring 19 goals in three games against quality opponents. Leading scorer Cole Koepke (17-15-32) finished off the tournament with a flourish, netting a hat trick and two assists in an 8-3 beating of Cloquet-Esko-Carlton in the finals. In the three games at Mars Lakeview Arena, Koepke had five goals and six assists. Jesse Jacques (7-13-20) also had a big week, scoring at least once in each game with a total of five goals and four assists. In Hermantown’s semifinal victory over Roseville, coach Bruce Plante became the ninth coach in state boys’ hockey history to record 500 victories.

2. St. Cloud Apollo (10-1-0)

Last week: at Granite City Classic — W 8-0 vs. Sauk Rapids-Rice (12/28), W 5-0 vs. St. Cloud Tech (12/29), W 5-1 vs. Sartell-St. Stephen (12/30)

This week: at Willmar (1/4), at Brainerd (1/5), vs. Breck (1/7)

After last year’s state tournament run, St. Cloud Apollo was again expected to be a strong defensive team this year. It certainly showed in three games at the Granite City Classic, as the Eagles allowed just one total goal. Senior goaltender Nick Althaus (10-1-0, 1.36, .932) had a shutout streak of 219 minutes, 50 seconds finally stopped by Sartell-St. Stephen’s Matthew Moran with 44 seconds left in the second period of the final game. It was the first goal Althaus had allowed since Mankato West’s Jimmy Miller scored 26 seconds into the second period of their Dec. 19 game — almost 13 full periods earlier. Gino Lucia (11-15-26) and Brandon Bissett (9-12-21) each scored at least one goal in all three games and pace the Eagles’ offense. Apollo will be tested this coming week with a home game against No. 4 Breck, which will be angry to avenge a tough showing in the Schwan Cup Silver Division and a loss to Apollo in last year’s state quarterfinals.

3. Hibbing/Chisholm (11-0-0)

Last week: W 3-0 vs. Brainerd (12/28), W 7-0 vs. Northern Lakes (12/29)

This week: vs. Cloquet-Esko-Carlton (1/5), at Virginia/MIB (1/7)

Hibbing/Chisholm is another team on an impressive defensive run, and the Bluejackets are the last remaining unbeaten team in Class 1A after back-to-back shutouts last week. Hibbing and Apollo share the state’s best goals against average (1.36), but while Apollo has a veteran netminder, the Bluejackets turned to freshman Ryan Ullan (11-0-0, 1.26, .940) to lead the way. His shutout streak is at 121 minutes, 56 seconds since allowing a goal to Greenway’s Dylan Carlson on Dec. 22. Having junior defenseman Scott Perunovich (8-27-35) on the ice in front of him certainly helps Ullan and the Bluejackets, as well. Perunovich is second in the state in assists to Luverne’s Jaxon Nelson. Jake Bestul (9-14-23) is second on the team in scoring after a four-goal week, including a hat trick against Northern Lakes.

4. Breck (10-3-0)

Last week: at Schwan Cup Silver Division — W 7-1 vs. Buffalo (12/28), L 2-3 vs. Rosemount (12/29), L 1-6 vs. St. Michael-Albertville (12/30)

This week: at St. Cloud Apollo (1/7), at Moorhead (1/9)

That’s a mighty drop for the Mustangs, who tumbled all the way from the top spot after losing two of three games at the Schwan Cup Silver Division over the holidays. After beating Buffalo in the quarterfinals, Breck had won five straight games while allowing only four total goals. But Rosemount and St. Michael-Albertville were able to solve the Mustangs’ defense in the final two games, scoring as many combined goals as Breck had allowed in the previous seven games. That said, Breck did outshoot both by a total of 77-42 and controlled play for long stretches of both games but were held in check by Rosemount’s Nick Hart and STMA’s Kyle Hayden. A big game is up next as the Mustangs visit St. Cloud Apollo on Thursday. Expect Chase Ellingson (14-22-36), Mitch Machlitt (16-10-26) and company to be tested by the Eagles’ tough defense.

5. Mahtomedi (9-3-0)

Last week: at Schwan Cup Silver Division — W 8-3 vs. Eastview (12/28), W 6-4 vs. St. Michael-Albertville (12/29), L 2-3 vs. Rosemount (12/30), W 3-2 vs. Blake (1/2)

This week: at St. Thomas Academy (1/7), at Tartan (1/9)

Giant-killer Rosemount also knocked off Mahtomedi on its run to the surprise Schwan Cup Silver Division title, edging the Zephyrs 3-2 in the final. Leading scorer Luke Posner (12-11-23) had a huge tournament, scoring eight goals, including a five-spot in the semifinal victory over St. Michael-Albertville. The lanky junior winger took over the team scoring lead with his best Jack Becker impersonation, as his size and reach were just too much for opponents. Mahtomedi responded to the loss with a 3-2 victory against Blake on Saturday, in a rare start for backup goaltender Taidhgin Keel (2-0-0, 4.00, .814). Keel made 20 saves in relief of Will Swanson (7-3-0, 2.10, .923) and Andrew Kangas (7-14-21) had a goal and an assist. The Zephyrs next match up with St. Thomas Academy, which has long been a thorn in their side in the Metro East Conference (nee Classic Suburban) and previously Section 4A before the Cadets moved to Class 2A.

6. St. Paul Academy (9-3-0)

Last week: at Duluth Heritage Classic — W 4-1 vs. Mankato West (12/28), W 5-3 vs. Eau Claire Memorial, WI (12/29), W 1-0 vs. St. Louis Park (12/30)

This week: vs. Minnehaha Academy (1/7), vs. Mankato West (1/9)

St. Paul Academy traveled north for the Duluth Heritage Classic and returned to the capitol city with a first-place trophy. Defense led the way for the Spartans, as they allowed just four goals in three games. Sophomore goaltender Andy Beran (9-3-0, 2.37, .906) stopped 72 of 76 shots in the three games, while Cullen McCabe (4-9-13), Noel Parker (3-9-12), Matt Dahlseide (11-10-21), and Jack Johnston (11-8-19) all scored two goals to pace the offense. Dahlseide scored the only goal in SPA’s 1-0 victory over St. Louis Park in the championship game. The Spartans have three straight home games in the coming 10 days, including two against IMAC foes Minnehaha Academy and Blake.

7. Delano (8-4-0)

Last week: at Hilltopper Holiday Classic — L 2-5 vs. Hermantown (12/29), W 6-1 vs. Superior, WI (12/30), L 2-6 vs. Bemidji (12/31)

This week: vs. Holy Family (1/5), at Waconia (1/7), vs. Rochester Lourdes (1/9)

Delano is another top-10 team that lost two of three over the holidays at the Hilltopper Holiday Classic to fall in the rankings. Neither loss for the Tigers is a bad one, though, as they fell to both No. 1 Hermantown and a Bemidji team that has lost only once all season in Class 2A. Junior Ben Meyers (18-13-31) leads the Tigers in scoring and had at least one tally in each game, with a hat trick in the 6-1 victory over Superior, WI. John Keranen (10-15-25) was the playmaker against the Spartans, recording five assists. Delano gets back into Wright County Conference play this week with its chief rival, Holy Family Catholic, visiting on Tuesday night.

8. Thief River Falls (9-3-0)

Last week: at Ralph Engelstad Classic — W 5-1 vs. Alexandria (12/28), W 8-1 vs. Fargo North, ND (12/29), W 5-2 vs. Chippewa Falls, WI (12/30)

This week: at Park Rapids (1/5), vs. Moorhead (1/7)

The Prowlers proved to be the best team from the tri-state area (Minnesota, North Dakota, Wisconsin) at their own Ralph Engelstad Classic by sweeping three games over the holidays. Thief River Falls received needed scoring balance, as five players recorded either six or seven points on the week, including leading scorer Ethan Johnson (18-6-24) who had five goals and two assists. But he was joined by seven-point efforts from Lucas Magnusson (7-10-17) and Brendan Bushy (3-9-12) and six-point weeks from Wyatt Ortloff (2-7-9) and Michael Johnson (5-16-21). Perhaps not surprisingly, they are the Prowlers’ top five scorers on the season.

9. East Grand Forks (8-4-1)

Last week: W 6-1 vs. Detroit Lakes (1/2)

This week: at Warroad (1/5), vs. Lake of the Woods (1/9)

After taking 10 days off for the holidays — the only team in the top-10 to do so — the Green Wave returned with an impressive 6-1 home victory over Detroit Lakes on Saturday. Six different players scored goals, led by leading scorer Tanner Tweten (8-8-16) who had a goal and two assists. East Grand Forks outshot the Lakers 47-11, with Jarod Reak (8-4-1, 2.64, .864) stopping 10 of 11 for the victory. Traditional rival Warroad is on the schedule for Tuesday night at The Gardens in Warroad, but it isn’t the same Warriors’ team that has been in the Section 8A final in 12 of the past 14 years. Still, it’s usually an intense battle between two programs with plenty of history. Since 1997, one or the other has won the section title 16 times in 19 years.

10. Greenway (12-2-0)

Last week: at Schwan Cup Bronze Division — W 7-2 vs. Spring Lake Park (12/28), W 2-1 vs. Princeton (12/29), W 6-3 vs. Minneapolis (12/30)

This week: at North Shore (1/5), vs. International Falls (1/7)

It’s been a long climb back into the top-10 rankings for Greenway, which was in danger as a program just a few short years ago. But the Raiders are surging now behind a buzzing offense that is averaging 6.0 goals per game through 14 games. Last week, the Raiders traveled down to the Twin Cities and swept the field in the Schwan Cup Bronze Division to win first place. Grant Troumbly (14-17-31) posted a hat trick and Dylan Sundquist (2-11-13) and Taylor Lantz (13-18-31) each had a goal and three assists as Greenway beat Minneapolis in the championship game, 6-3. Troumbly and Lantz are among four Raiders already in double-digit goal, while eight have double-digit points. The Raiders play an intriguing Section 7A game Tuesday night at North Shore, another program on the rise.

Others receiving votes: St. Cloud Cathedral, Sartell-St. Stephen, Orono, Little Falls, St. Paul Johnson, North Shore, Princeton

The post MHM Boys Class 1A Top 10 – 1/4/16 appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

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Mustangs gallop past Hermantown to claim No. 1 spot

After a tumultuous shuffling of the bottom half of the top-10 in last week’s Class 1A rankings, this time we have movement among the top four, as all are in a different spot than last week. Breck’s big week propelled the Mustangs into the top spot ahead of No. 2 Hermantown, which lost its first game of the year in a shutout at Minnetonka. Both No. 3 St. Cloud Apollo and No. 4 Mahtomedi swept their weeks, although Apollo’s recent run caused a flip in their rankings.

Meanwhile, spots No. 5 through 10 remain intact, as other than a loss to the best team in North Dakota (Grand Forks Red River) by No. 8 East Grand Forks, all won out heading into the holidays.

Keep an eye on the holiday tournament schedule, as most of the top teams should face stiff competition. Breck and Mahtomedi face Class 2A teams in the Schwan Cup Silver Division, while St. Cloud Apollo, St. Cloud Cathedral, and No. 10 Sartell-St. Stephen all play each other in a great Granite City Classic field. Also, Hermantown and No. 6 Delano square off in the quarterfinals of the Hilltopper Holiday Classic in Duluth.

1. Breck (9-1-0)

Last week: W 9-1 vs. St. Cloud Cathedral (12/17), W 6-1 at Duluth Marshall (12/19), W 9-1 vs. St. Michael-Albertville (12/22)
This week: at Schwan Cup Silver Division vs. Buffalo (12/28), TBD (12/29), TBD (12/30)

Breck isn’t just winning games, its taking care of business in impressive fashion. The Mustangs rolled through two tough Class 2A teams (Duluth Marshall and St. Michael-Albertville) and a team on the fringe of the Class 1A top-10 (St. Cloud Cathedral) by a combined 24-3 score last week. The Mustangs’ only loss was a 2-1 overtime game at Wayzata on Dec. 10. In the four games since, they have scored new fewer than six goals and allowed only three total goals. That’s dominance. Chase Ellingson (14-18-32) and Mitch Machlitt (14-9-23) each tallied a hat trick against STMA and share the team’s goal-scoring lead. Six other players already have at least 10 points, so the expected offensive strength of Breck has come to pass. Defensively, the Mustangs have been just as impressive, however, with goaltender Linden Olness (9-1-0, 1.60, .917) stepping in seamlessly for graduated Brimsek Award finalist Stephen Headrick.

2. Hermantown (7-1-1)

Last week: L 0-3 at Minnetonka (12/18), W 6-2 at New Prague (12/19), W 10-0 vs. Eveleth-Gilbert (12/22)
This week: at Hilltopper Holiday Classic vs. Delano (12/29), TBD (12/30), TBD (12/31)

Hermantown suffered its first loss of the winter last week, falling 3-0 at Minnetonka. That defeat — along with a tie to Hopkins two weeks before — was enough to push the Hawks down to the No. 2 spot this week. It’s not an indictment of Hermantown’s vulnerability as much as it is a reward for Breck’s absolute dismantling of good teams lately. The Hawks did respond to the loss as good teams should, beating the next two Class 1A teams by a combined 16-2 score. Ryan Sandelin (12-9-21) and Cole Koepke (12-9-21) each recorded hat tricks in Hermantown’s 10-0 win over Eveleth-Gilbert last Tuesday, while defenseman Wyatt Aamodt (2-11-13) contributed six assists. Not surprisingly, they are the Hawks’ top three scorers this winter. A great test comes in the Hilltopper Holiday Classic in Duluth on Tuesday, as the Hawks play No. 6 Delano in the quarterfinals.

3. St. Cloud Apollo (7-1-0)

Last week: W 7-1 vs. Fergus Falls (12/17), W 6-2 vs. Mankato West (12/19), W 4-0 at Rochester Lourdes (12/22)
This week: at Granite City Classic vs. Sauk Rapids-Rice (12/28), vs. St. Cloud Tech (12/29), vs. Sartell-St. Stephen (12/30)

Just as Breck jumped over Hermantown in the rankings due to impressive recent results, so did Apollo leap past Mahtomedi for the No. 3 spot. The Eagles continue to play the same strong defense that led to last year’s state tournament run, as they’re allowing only 1.75 goals per game in front of senior goaltender Nick Althaus (7-1-0, 1.75, .910). Since a season-opening 2-1 loss at Bemidji, Apollo has won seven straight games, never scoring fewer than four goals. That added offense is what makes Apollo a state title contender this winter. Gino Lucia (7-11-18), the nephew of Gophers’ coach Don Lucia, leads the Eagles in scoring, just ahead of top defenseman Tanner Breidenbach (6-11-17).

4. Mahtomedi (6-2-0)

Last week: W 5-0 at Henry Sibley (12/19)
This week: at Schwan Cup Silver Division vs. Eastview (12/28), TBD (12/29), TBD (12/30)

Mahtomedi will have to make hay against a pair of Class 2A teams in the first two rounds of the Schwan Cup Silver Division, but could conceivably collide with top-ranked Breck in the final round, which would be a great holiday treat for fans of Class 1A hockey. The Zephyrs had a light week, winning their only game at Henry Sibley last Friday, 5-0. Mahtomedi outshot the Warriors 54-20, yet the game was scoreless until midway through the second period. Over the final 25 minutes, however, Tim Kuivinen (5-6-11) and Andrew Kangas (5-10-15) took over, combining for all five goals and two assists. That outburst has them tied for the team lead in goals. Senior goaltender Will Swanson (5-2-0, 1.57, .942) has been as good as advertised, with two shutouts and two other games with only one goal allowed.

5. Hibbing/Chisholm (9-0-0)

Last week: W 9-2 vs. Rochester Mayo (12/18), W 6-2 vs. Albert Lea (12/19), W 4-2 at Greenway (12/22)
This week: vs. Brainerd (12/28), vs. Northern Lakes (12/29)

The last remaining unbeaten team in Class 1A, Hibbing/Chisholm passed its biggest test so far by winning at Greenway on Tuesday night, 4-2. Junior defenseman Scott Perunovich (7-23-30) had two goals and two assists, while Jake Bestul (5-13-18) scored the tie-breaking goal 4:55 into the third period for the Bluejackets. Perunovich is one of a dozen Minnesota high school players ranked by the NHL Scouting Bureau for the upcoming draft, given a “C” grade. The Bluejackets host a small two-game holiday event this coming week, including what could be a great game against Brainerd to kick it off on Monday. The Warriors are coming off a victory against Moorhead and their only loss is a forfeited game at Bloomington Jefferson (which they had won 11-9).

6. Delano (7-2-0)

Last week: W 6-0 at Hutchinson (12/18)
This week: at Hilltopper Holiday Classic vs. Hermantown (12/29), TBD (12/30), TBD (12/31)

The usual suspects powered Delano to a 6-0 victory at Hutchinson in its only Wright County Conference game last week. Leading scorer Ben Meyers (13-12-25) picked up a hat trick and goaltender Jackson Hjelle (4-1-0, 2.57, .891) earned the shutout with 13 saves. Justin Daly (3-5-8) also added two goals and two assists as the Tigers outshot Hutch, 39-13. The Tigers should be well-rested for a big holiday tournament slate. Earlier this winter, Delano’s first crack at a top-four Class 1A team resulted in a firewagon 9-7 loss to Breck. This coming week, the Tigers take aim at No. 2 Hermantown in the quarterfinals of the Hilltopper Holiday Classic. A victory there should vault the Tigers into the top five and signify their rise as a state contender.

7. St. Paul Academy (6-3-0)

Last week: W 3-2 at Rochester JM (12/19), W 8-1 vs. Henry Sibley (12/22)|
This week: at Duluth Heritage Classic vs. Mankato West (12/28), TBD (12/29), TBD (12/30)

St. Paul Academy got back on the winning track last week, beating Rochester John Marshall and Henry Sibley to erase a two-game losing skid. Leading scorers Matt Dahlseide (9-9-18) and Jack Johnston (9-8-17) had big weeks, combining for seven goals and four assists in the two games, while sophomore goaltender Andy Beran (6-3-0, 2.73, .892) stopped a combined 33 of 36 shots. With Dahlseide and Johnston just juniors, it shows the youth of the Spartans’ team — six of SPA’s top eight scorers are juniors. The Spartans travel north for the holidays, as they take on Mankato West in the opening round of the Duluth Heritage Classic, which also includes Duluth Denfeld, St. Louis Park, Apple Valley, Owatonna, and a pair of strong Wisconsin teams.

8. East Grand Forks (7-4-1)

Last week: W 6-1 vs. Alexandria (12/19), L 3-4 at Grand Forks Red River, ND (12/22)
This week: none.

East Grand Forks enters the holiday break coming off a 4-3 loss at interstate rival Grand Forks Red River on Tuesday night. It’s not a bad loss, as the Roughriders are unbeaten and the unanimous top-ranked team in North Dakota — and likely to win the Gambucci Cup that goes to the top Grand Forks area team each season. The Green Wave are the only top-10 team to take the holidays off, however, and won’t be back on the ice until a home game against Detroit Lakes on Jan. 2. Senior power forward Tanner Tweten (7-6-13) continues to lead the Green Wave in scoring, but could get help when Grant Loven returns. After a tough weekend in the Twin Cities in early December, senior goaltender Jarod Reak (7-4-1, 2.78, .860) has been solid, stopping 103 of the last 114 shots (.904).

9. Thief River Falls (6-3-0)

Last week: W 7-3 at Crookston (12/19)
This week: at Ralph Engelstad Classic vs. Alexandria (12/28), vs. Fargo North, ND (12/29), vs. Chippewa Falls, WI (12/30)

The Prowlers offense erupted in a 7-3 victory at Crookston last Friday, their only game of the week. After scoring no more than three goals in seven straight games — three of them losses — Thief River Falls scored four in the first period alone against the Pirates. Michael Johnson (5-9-14) scored once in each period for the hat trick, while leading scorer Ethan Johnson (13-4-17) had two goals and an assist. Along with Lucas Magnusson (3-7-10), they are the only Prowlers with more than two goals on the year, however. Thief River Falls hosts an interesting tri-state holiday tournament this week, playing games against teams from Minnesota (Alexandria), North Dakota (Fargo North), and Wisconsin (Chippewa Falls).

10. Sartell-St. Stephen (8-2-0)

Last week: W 6-4 at Willmar (12/17), W 5-0 vs. Monticello/Annandale/Maple Lake (12/22)
This week: at Granite City Classic vs. St. Cloud Cathedral (12/28), vs. Providence Academy (12/29), vs. St. Cloud Apollo (12/30)

The Section 6A race will get sorted out quite a bit at this coming week’s Granite City Classic, with the three top contenders — St. Cloud Apollo, St. Cloud Cathedral, and Sartell-St. Stephen — all scheduled to play each other. The Sabres have won three straight games since losing in overtime to Apollo on Dec. 11, including a pair of wins last week. Colin Johnson (8-8-16) and William McCabe (5-6-11) scored two goals each at Willmar and goaltender Matthew Partch (8-2-0, 2.49, .896) recorded an 18-save home shutout of Monticello/Annandale/Maple Lake. Sartell will have to have a good result in the Granite City to hold off a few of the teams on its heels, including Cathedral.

Others receiving votes: St. Cloud Cathedral, Orono, Luverne, Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato, Greenway, Duluth Denfeld, Little Falls, St. Paul Johnson, North Shore, Mankato West, Princeton

The post MHM Boys Class 1A Top Ten – 12/23/15 appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.