Defending champion Spuds ranked No. 1 to start the season

by Bryan Zollman, Let’s Play Hockey

There was some question whether or not Moorhead would enter the season as the top-ranked team in Class AA. But after Zac Zimmerman, Brandon Mickelson and Tyden Bergeson all decided to return to defend their first state title from this past March, there was absolutely ZERO question who the top team is coming into the season.

Zimmerman and Co. followed in the footsteps of their departed teammate Mason Kraft, 2025’s Mr. Hockey, who also had the option of leaving early and playing a full season of juniors before he decided to return home to play with his buddies and chase the elusive dream of winning a state championship.

That dream came true and now it’s up to the returning Spuds to show that last season wasn’t a one-off and Moorhead, longtime the bridesmaid until becoming the beloved bride, is here to crash the wedding again.

The Spuds lead the Let’s Play Hockey pre-season rankings…here are the top 10 teams according to Class AA coaches, heading into the season.

No. 1. Moorhead Spuds

Zimmerman was a key cog in last year’s title run as a sophomore with 32 goals and 46 assists in 31 games for the Spuds and had an outstanding state tournament, only overshadowed by Kraft’s legendary performance. He was holding his own for the Fargo Force when he made the decision to return to Moorhead in search of title No. 2.

Mickelson is an equally important cog in the Spud factory. The blueliner is a top-rated prospect that has raised the eyebrows of local scouts, and could be a front runner for the Reed Larson Award given to the state’s top senior defenseman. Mickelson plays both ends of the ice extremely well and dished out 36 assists in 31 games last year to go with eight goals. He was playing for the Wenatchee Wild in the WHL before rejoining the hometown Spuds.

Bergeson also returns after getting off to a torrid start with Madison in the USHL where he notched 11 goals in the team’s first 16 games. Last season he ran a 25-26-51 spread in 31 games and should improve on that total this season.

The team will also bolster three Cullen boys. Max Cullen is a junior and UMD commit, Joey a sophomore, and Will a freshman. Joey had 151 points last season as a Bantam AA player, leading Moorhead to the state title. He is the son of former Wild star and three-time Stanley Cup Champion Matt Cullen. Max Cullen had 28 points in 31 games as a sophomore, and Will will look to chip in as a freshman this season after helping lead the Bantam team to the state title last year.

The Spuds have seven seniors, and are loaded with underclassmen in a program that continuously excels at the youth levels (three Bantam AA state titles in four years) and funnels players into the high school ranks. Them winning last season and returning a good chunk of their roster gives them the clear-cut No. 1 ranking coming into the season. But there is a lot of time between now and early March when the puck drops on the state tournament and if any team can make a strong argument for the top spot it would be Hill-Murray.

No. 2 Hill-Murray Pioneers

The Pioneers also return a swath of scorers from last season, are strong on the blue line, and may have the best goalie in the state in Grayson Hanggi. They were clipped by Stillwater last season in the Section 4AA finals, and the Ponies rode their saddle all the way to the championship game. The Pioneers were forced to watch from home, which should provide added fuel to the fire for the players and the coaching staff.

Chaz Lentz will be the offensive sparkplug after a 20-37-57 season last year along with Caden Zasada (9-21-30). The team graduates Boden Sampair and top D-men Graham Greeder and Landon Cottingham, but the Pioneers always have a strong pipeline of players ready to fill roles. Hanggi is the difference-maker here and the rest of the section appears to be somewhat down from years past creating a less-arduous road to state.

While it may seem like a two-horse race out of the gates, there are the usual suspects who are always considered contenders. After all, who pegged Stillwater to not just get through Section 4AA, but to get all the way to the title game? Who is this year’s Stillwater?

No. 3 Minnetonka Skippers

Minnetonka comes in at No. 3 in our pre-season rankings, but you can’t really count them as an underdog. Just three years removed from a state title and two years removed from a team that, on paper, was being pegged the team of the century, the Skippers look to get back on top in Section 2AA with a roster that lacks the superstars of yesteryear but has plenty of talent and depth to make a deep run.

Tate Hardacre had a quiet 42-point season for a defenseman last year and returns as the team’s top scorer. The 6’4” 215-pounder will be a strong presence for the Skippers along with forwards Caden Lindsay (12-13-25) and Ethan Sturgis (10-10-20). Like Hill-Murray, the pipeline is strong here and Tonka looks to get back on top.

No. 4 Edina Hornets

Some may be surprised with Edina at No. 4 considering they have seen their top scorers depart, but Hornet history tells us the cupboard is never bare and “rebuild” is a 4-letter word in those parts.

They lose their top four scorers to juniors including first-round NHL draft pick Mason West, but return a solid group of contributors including Sam Peckham, Tucker Johnson, Bode McConnell and Alex White. They also return goalies Wyatt Spindler and Chase Bjorgaard, which could prove invaluable, especially considering the lack of scoring punch returning, save for emerging sophomore forward Nash Paine. And let’s face it, Curt Giles and his staff will deploy a smart hockey team that makes very few mistakes, so expect Edina to linger in the top 10 all season and making a run come section time.

No. 5 St. Thomas Academy Cadets

St. Thomas Academy is ranked No. 5 and bench boss Mark Strobel has a year under his belt and a solid group returning led by Cole Braunshausen, a potential Mr. Hockey candidate who scored 21 goals and had 35 assists in 31 games last season. Peter Murray is another strong player for the Cadets who should be deep as usual. They also welcome incoming freshman Maverick McKinnon, the top-ranked player in his class who is coming off a 50-point season as an eighth grader for Forest Lake.

No. 6 Rogers Royals

No. 6 Rogers made their first trip to state a year ago and will be hungry to get back and has the talent to do so. However, they are in a new section and it’s the toughest section in the state along with Edina, Wayzata, Holy Angels and Benilde-St. Margaret’s.

Cole Bumgarner returns to the Royals to give them a potent offensive threat along with Brock Cheslock (17-22-39), and Jayden Kurtz is one of the top blueliners in the state. Matthew Hauser is another strong defenseman and Avenir Belous returns after a 25-point season as a junior. Rogers does lose their top four scorers to graduation including Mr. Hockey finalist Mason Jenson, but the hope is Bumgarner can provide the offensive spark Jenson did a year ago.

No. 7 Rosemount Irish

Rosemount is ranked No. 7 and returns 14 letterwinners including goaltender Sam Clements who is one of the top goalies in the state and is coming off a 22-win season. Top-scorer Cade Sherman (23-27-50) returns as does Gavin McNeil (16-26-42). Some may be surprised with Rosemount’s high ranking to start the season, but they have depth and experience, including experience where it matters most – between the pipes.

No. 8 Cretin-Derham Hall Raiders

Cretin-Derham Hall probably would be a top-5 team if Nate Chorlton and Max Anderson had returned, but as of this writing both look to be slated to stay in the USHL. Marcus Matyas has been rumored to have returned and along with Johnny Bloedow, one of the top sophomores in the state, the Raiders will be strong up front.

No. 9 Academy of Holy Angels Stars

If there is a “Stillwater” this season it may be No. 9 Academy of Holy Angels. The Stars return a ton of points with eight of their top nine scorers back, including Cole Cheeseman (26-39-65) and Lincoln Ayers Assad (30-27-57). They also return three high-scoring defensemen in Gabe Perron (12-46-58), Avinash Kasargod (8-39-47) and Teddy Lechner (5-23-28). They are in the gauntlet of 6AA hockey, however, but if there is a sleeper team, the Stars may be aligned to one that team.

No. 10 Maple Grove Crimson

Maple Grove rounds out the top 10 and looks to be as much of a lock to win their section as anyone else in AA. They return their top six forwards and top five D-men and like the Skippers may not have the star power some other AA teams have, but will have the depth required to wear teams down in the third period.

The rankings, as always, will change, but these teams give us a good idea of who to look for in the early goings as potential favorites to get to Grand Casino Arena in early March. Every team still has to get through 25 regular season games with good health and some good fortune. And as we see just about every year, the team that starts the season No. 1 rarely ends the season at the top. That’s what makes Minnesota High School Hockey the greatest high school sport in the country. Once the puck drops, anything and everything can happen.

Let’s Play Hockey Rankings

Presented by:

Other Teams Receiving Votes:  Prior Lake, St, Michael-Albertville, Bemidji, Grand Rapids, Centennial, Duluth Marshall, Stillwater, Totino-Grace, Elk River/Zimmerman, Forest Lake.

Section-by-Section previews

by Robert Brent, Let's Play Hockey

Section 1AA

The Lakeville South Cougars regained their Section 1 throne last season after Rochester Century/JM won in 2024. The Panthers’ 2024 victory broke up a five-year streak for Lakeville South, so the Cougars have won this section six of the last seven years. 

The Cougars are poised to continue that dominance, especially with the return of Carter Ernst. Carter led Lakeville South in scoring last season with 61 points and should be on watch lists for this season’s Mr. Hockey award. He’ll be joined by Calvin O’Reilly, a transfer from Century who scored 45 points last season, to form a dynamic scoring duo. 

While Lakeville South should be considered the favorites in the section, they’ll face competition, particularly from an experienced Lakeville North squad. Lakeville North lost star Gunnar Conboy to juniors, but will be returning 12 players from last season, all of whom are either juniors or seniors. 

That situation is similar for the Farmington Tigers. Farmington went 9-16-1 last season, but will remain largely the same team with another year of experience under its belt. Elsewhere in the section, New Prague will feature one of the best juniors in the class in Walker Andersen. The forward led the team last year in scoring and will look to build on that breakout 29-point campaign.

Austin Packers:

2024-25 Record: 17-9-1

Head Coach: Troy Schaefer

Conference: Big 9

State Trips: 1993, 2001

Top Returning Players: Kyler Flanders, D, Sr. (11-17-28); Kade Overocker, D, Jr. (11-14-25); Cooper Jacobsen, F, Jr. (9-8-17); Elijah Krueger, F, Sr. (6-8-14); Talan Hall, F, So. (7-5-12); Trent Rubin, F, Sr. (5-6-11); Landon Hill, D, Jr. (4-6-10); Maxx Joseph, F, Sr. (2-6-8); Naryk Rector, D, Sr. (1-4-5); Brayden Greene, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Tait Johnson, G, So. (9-2-0, 2.27, .919)

Farmington Tigers:

2024-25 Record: 9-16-1

Head Coach: Steve Sabetti

Conference: South Suburban

State Trips: 1994, 2000, 2016

Top Returning Players: Jackson Donahue, F, Sr. (10-15-25); Tanner Gylling, F, Jr. (6-12-18); AJ Vinar, D, Sr. (5-12-17); Tegan Gyllin, F, Jr. (5-11-16); Jack Budde, F, Sr. (7-5-12); Mason Rodgers, D, Sr. (4-8-12); Drake Anderson, F, Sr. (2-6-8); Kaleb Tracey, D, Sr. (0-2-2); Parker Nivala, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Chris Bade, G, Sr. (8-15-1, 3.09, .905); Matthew Berreman, G, Jr. (1-1-0, 3.86, .889)

Lakeville North Panthers:

2024-25 Record: 14-13-1

Head Coach: Jake Taylor

Conference: South Suburban

State Trips: 2002, 2003, 2004 (as Lakeville), 2006, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015 Champions, 2018

Top Returning Players: Kaden Decker, F, Sr. (11-14-25); Brett Wynes, D, Jr. (8-16-24); Blake Bachmeier, F, Sr. (10-10-20); Maguire DeWees, F, Sr. (8-16-14); Logan Nelson, F, Sr. (6-6-12); Jackson Schrick, D, Jr. (1-6-7); Landon DeWees, D, Sr. (0-4-4); Ethan Arneson, F Sr. (2-1-3); William Zwerdling, D, Sr. (1-1-2); Eli Gunderson, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Evan Loftus, G, Sr. (1-0-0, 6.38, .813)

Lakeville South Cougars:

2024-25 Record: 19-11-0

Head Coach: Josh Storm

Conference: South Suburban

State Trips: 2002, 2003, 2004 (as Lakeville), 2008, 2012, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2025

Top Returning Players: Carter Ernst, F, Sr. (27-34-61); Calvin O’Reilly, F, Sr. (28-17-45); Tristan Lawrence, F, Sr. (10-13-23); Gavin Lafferty, D, Sr. (3-19-22); Charlie Hunst, D, Jr. (3-12-15); Colby Olson, F, Jr. (5-8-13); Adam Moline, D, Sr. (1-6-7); Emmett Hartmann, D, Sr. (0-5-5); Tristan Anderson, F/D, Sr. (1-2-3); Caden Ocken, F, Sr. (1-1-2); Corbin Shandley, G, Sr. (10-9-2, 2.62, .904)

New Prague Trojans:

2024-25 Record: 10-15-2

Head Coach: Brad Drazen

Conference: Metro West

State Trips: 2014, 2015, 2022

Top Returning Players: Walker Andersen, F, Jr. (14-15-29); Carson Ashley, F, Jr. (4-13-17);August Beckius, D, Jr. (2-13-15); Grayson Witty, F, So. (7-2-9); Cade Borwege, D, Sr. (1-6-7); Grason Reu, F, Sr. (2-5-7); Joseph Busch, D, Jr. (1-3-4); Jaxen Woitas, F, Sr. (2-0-2); Patrick Clancy, F, Sr. (1-0-1)

Owatonna Huskies:

2024-25 Record: 12-14-1

Head Coach: Dennis Will

Conference: Big 9

State Trips: 1998

Top Returning Players: Zachary Klecker, F, Jr. (18-15-33); Grady Roush, F, Jr. (16-5-21); Caleb Ringhofer, F, Jr. (7-9-16); Zachary Roesner, F/D, So. (6-8-14); Wyatt Macy, F, Sr. (5-3-8); William Radel, F, Sr. (3-3-6); Isaac Mobley, F, Sr. (3-2-5); Jackson Kath, F, Sr. (1-3-4); Cooper Aul, F, Sr. (0-2-2); Brekxton Nelson, G, Sr. (1-3-0, 6.30, .810)

Rochester Century/JM Panthers:

2024-25 Record: 13-11-2

Head Coach: Josh Klingfus/Matt Erredge

Conference: Big 9

State Trips: 1945, 1946, 1947, 1948 (as Rochester), 1977 Champions, 1978, 1979, 1988, 1989, 1996 (as John Marshall), 2005, 2007, 2009 (as Century), 2024

Top Returning Players: Jarek Solak, F, Sr. (11-3-14); Cooper Torgrimson, F, Sr. (4-9-13); Boston Collins, F, Jr. (3-9-12); Dominic Palazzari, D, Sr. (3-9-12); Hatcher Hodge, D, Jr. (3-6-9); Cole Brownlow, F, Sr. (1-0-1); Owen Cousin, F, Jr. (0-1-1); Joey Graham, D/F, Sr. (0-1-1); Jamison Sutton, D, Sr. (0-1-1); Zach Bohan, G, Sr. (1-0-0, 1.00, .923)

Rochester Mayo Spartans:

2024-25 Record: 13-11-2

Head Coach: Matt Notermann

Conference: Big 9

State Trips: 1945, 1946, 1947, 1948 (as Rochester), 1982, 1992, 1994, 1995, 1997, 1999, 2000

Top Returning Players: Oliver Bertsch, F, Sr. (8-11-19); Jesse Hendrickson, F, Sr. (11-6-17); Jacob Canfield, F, Sr. (4-12-16); Joseph Villarama, D, Jr. (1-10-11); John Kachmarzinski, F, Jr. (4-5-9); Max Gargollo, F, Sr. (2-5-7); Sean Daniels, D, Jr. (0-5-5); Kellan Huie, F, Sr. (2-1-3); Henry Collura, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Noah Hagen, D, Sr. (1-0-1); Mason Hinchley, G, Sr. (3-7-0, 5.49, .809); Kaden Johnston, G, So. (2-14-0, 4.73, .863); Colton Brandt, G, So.

Section 2AA

Section 2 has been one of the most volatile over the last several years. It’s the only section in the class to feature five straight unique champions. The section appears to be anyone’s to win once again this season, with a few strong contenders for the title.

Last year’s winners, Shakopee, should have another strong season after some uncertainty regarding how many of their top players would be returning. While they’ll have to see who can take over the net after the departure of Owen Lunneborg, the rest of the team should be in great shape. They boast a trio of scorers (Nate Pederson, Cooper Siegert, and Tristin Wassegnesso) who scored more than 40 points each last year, and one of the best defenders in the state in senior Carson Steinhoff.

Minnetonka should be another strong competitor, off the back of their high-end defensive duo of Danny Browning and Tate Hardacre. Hardacre carries the offensive load for the team, leading the Skippers in scoring last year with 42 points. Browning is an all-around defender who could play up to 25 minutes a night this season. At forward, Minnetonka features two standout seniors in Ethan Sturgis and Caden Lindsay.

Holy Family and Eden Prairie could also make strong runs in this section, though there will be uncertainty surrounding both regarding how much they lost in the offseason. Eden Prairie is always loaded with talented players, but could experience a reloading year after graduating their eight top scorers from last year. Holy Family is a bit more experienced, but still lost four of their top six scorers from last year.

Bloomington Jefferson Jaguars:

2024-25 Record: 10-16-0

Head Coach: Matt Elsen

Conference: Metro West

State Trips: 1966, 1976, 1983, 1984, 1987 Champions, 1990, 1991 (as Kennedy), 1980, 1981 Champions, 1982, 1985, 1986, 1988, 1989 Champions, 1992 Champions, 1993 Champions, 1994 Champions, 1995, 1997, 1998, 2000, 2002, 2005

Top Returning Players: Kaden Larson, F, Sr. (11-18-29); Brayden Thomas, F, Jr. (19-10-29); Mason Van Brunt, F, Sr. (11-15-26); Frankie Schmitz, D, Sr. (1-24-25); Blake Dosan, F, Jr. (14-10-24); Anders Bjorklund, F, Sr. (11-9-20); Darrin Doner, F, Jr. (2-13-15); Ben Ruppert, D, Sr. (2-4-6); Cole Peterson, D, Sr. (1-4-5); Samuel Moore, F, Sr. (0-4-4); Giovanni Erickson, D, Sr. (1-2-3); Logan Peterson, F, Sr. (1-2-3); Jacob Basney, D, Sr. (0-1-1); Owen Matthews, G, Sr. (9-14-0, 4.34, .868); Jack Frien, G, Jr. (1-2-0, 3.67, .864); Dominick Russell, G, Sr. (1-20-0, 8.01, .832); Traedyn Frost-Trahan, G, Sr. (0-3-0, 15.27, .655)

Chanhassen Storm:

2024-25 Record: 8-17-1

Head Coach: Sean Bloomfield

Conference: Metro West

State Trips: 2024

Top Returning Players: Logan Smith, F, Sr. (12-19-31); Nolan Warner, F, Sr. (12-10-22); Mateo Sylvia, F, So. (4-7-11); Kalen Balliet, F, Sr. (1-8-9); Gavin Anderson, D, Sr. (1-7-8); Blake Kennedy, F, Jr. (5-3-8); Theo Koubeck, F, Jr. (4-4-8); Quinn Reding, F, Sr. (1-3-4); Grayson Endres, D, Sr. (0-2-2); Grant Atterson, G, Sr. (4-5-0, 3.68, .896); Tyler Jackson, G, Jr. (0-1-0, 11.45, .778)

Chaska Hawks:

2024-25 Record: 4-21-2

Head Coach: Ryan Siiro

Conference: Metro West

State Trips: None

Top Returning Players: Jake Campbell, F, So. (8-15-23); Donovan Madsen, F, Jr. (13-10-23); Mason Gutowsky, F, Jr. (6-5-11); Justin Greathouse, D, So. (1-7-8); Tyler Hromatka, F, Jr. (4-4-8); Bridger Kolesar, D, Sr. (1-6-7); Ethan Williams, F, Sr. (0-3-3); Nathan Brandt, G, Jr. (0-1-0, 6.80, .868); Frank Petz, G, Jr. (0-1-1, 5.55, .902)

Eden Prairie Eagles:

2024-25 Record: 17-7-3

Head Coach: Lincoln Nguyen 

Conference: Lake

State Trips: 1992, 1999, 2001, 2003, 2009 Champions, 2011 Champions, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021 Champions

Top Returning Players: Christian Lee, F, Jr. (5-6-11); Cameron Rice, D, Sr. (2-9-11); Cole Pitzl, F, Sr. (5-5-10); Nash Saterdalen, F, Sr. (3-1-4); Evan Bretz, F, Sr. (1-1-2); Will Elmquist, F, Jr. (1-1-2); Jack Peterson, F, Jr. (0-1-1); Grady Puett, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Carson Stidger, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Bennett Wilmer, G, Jr. (11-5-2, 2.30, .898)

Holy Family Catholic Fire:

2024-25 Record: 20-8-0

Head Coach: Zach Friedl

Conference: Wright County

State Trips: None

Top Returning Players: Ryder Sorensen F, Jr. (11-22-33); Cooper Avelar, D, Jr. (5-16-21); Anden Roy, F, Jr. (9-12-21); Max Wilsey, F, Sr. (11-10-21); Adam Crosby, F, Sr. (4-11-15); Riley Doyle, D, Sr. (1-9-10); Niklas Segfeldt, F/D, Jr. (2-6-8); Max Alexander, D, Sr. (0-6-6); Luca Colombo, F, So. (0-1-1); Joey Weyandt, F, Sr. (1-0-1); Johnny Abercrombie, G, Jr. (1-0-0, 2.00, .926)

Minnetonka Skippers:

2024-25 Record: 14-11-2

Head Coach: Sean Goldsworthy

Conference: Lake

State Trips: 1985, 1990, 1994, 2006, 2010, 2018 Champions, 2023 Champions

Top Returning Players: Tate Hardacre, D, Sr. (19-23-42);Caden Lindsay, F, Sr. (12-13-25); Ethan Sturgis, F, Sr. (10-10-20); Jordan Johnson, F, Sr. (6-13-19); Liam Schultz, F, Jr. (9-10-19); Danny Browning, D, Sr. (7-8-15); Cooper Rannow, F, Sr. (3-9-12); Zachary Markwell, D, Sr. (2-7-9); Cameron Merrick, D, Sr. (0-4-4); Chase Jerdee, G, Sr. (3-1-0, 2.50, .897)

Prior Lake Lakers:

2024-25 Record: 11-13-2

Head Coach: Joe Pankratz

Conference: South Suburban 

State Trips: 2022

Top Returning Players: Parker Wenkus, F, Sr. (7-13-20); Jack Wilmert, D, Sr. (1-14-15); Gavin Lind, F, Jr. (7-7-14); Aiden Lavigne, D, Jr. (3-10-13); Mason Stephens, F, Sr. (6-5-11); Brandan Chayer, D, Sr. (3-6-9); Bryce Lovett, F, Jr. (6-2-8); Nicholas Selle, F, Sr. (0-3-3); Jake Written, D, Sr. (0-2-2); Hudson Young, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Preston Kulics, G, Jr. (6-8-0, 3.42, .877); Joseph Gannon, G, Sr. (1-2-1, 3.26, .901)

Shakopee Sabers:

2024-25 Record: 24-6-1

Head Coach: Calvin Simon

Conference: South Suburban

State Trips: 2005, 2025

Top Returning Players: Nate Pederson, F, Sr. (18-34-52); Cooper Siegert, F, Sr. (22-27-49); Tristin Wassengeso, F, Sr. (15-32-47); Carson Steinhoff, D, Sr. (2-27-29); Daylin Cline, F, Sr. (6-21-27); Jack Kultgen, D, Sr. (3-17-20); Landon Huh, D, Jr. (2-11-13); Jaxon Johnson, D, Sr. (2-8-10); Cody Sawyer, F, Sr. (4-5-9); Niklas Huson, G, Sr. (2-2-0, 2.43, .867); Caden Nelson, G, Sr. (1-0-0, 2.52, .857); Logan Avery, G, Jr. (0-0-0, 4.29, .750)

Section 3AA

Section 3 is another one where there should be spirited competition for the top spot. Cretin-Derham Hall and St. Thomas Academy have enjoyed considerable success over the last several seasons, and both are expected to contend again.

St. Thomas Academy won last year and will be difficult to top this campaign. Cole Braunhausen should be one of the top seniors in the state after scoring 60 points last year. A 50-point scorer in Maverick McKinnon joins him to form one of the top scoring duos in the section. The team will have turnover in net after the departure of their stalwart goaltender Cody Niesen, but this is still a very dangerous team. 

Cretin-Derham Hall will be a strong club again this year as well. Jonny Bloedlow has one of the best shots in the state and used it to score 14 goals last season as a freshman. The Raiders are a good mix of youth and experience and will be a challenge for anyone. 

Rosemount is another team to watch, boasting a large number of returning players. The team will bring back their starting goaltender, Sam Clements, along with 15 players from last season’s squad. Rosemount has the talent to make a run for the State Tournament, but they’ll have to get through a tough Section 3 first.

Apple Valley/Burnsville Eagles:

2024-25 Record: 10-16-0

Head Coach: Tate Erickson

Conference: South Suburban

State Trips: 1981, 1992, 1993, 1996 Champions, 2010 (as Apple Valley), 1983, 1984, 1985 Champions, 1986 Champions, 1987, 1990, 1991, 2007, 2016 (as Burnsville)

Top Returning Players: Andrew Benolkin, D, Sr. (1-9-10); Colten Himmelwright, F/D, Sr. (1-5-6); Spencer Miller, F, Jr. (4-2-6); Cam Noland, D, Sr. (2-4-6); Alix Sorn, D, Jr. (1-4-5); Samuel Skoglund, F, Jr. (3-1-4); Marshall Link, D, Jr. (0-2-2); Miles Johnson, G, Sr. (1-1-0, 6.22, .786)

Cretin-Derham Hall Raiders:

2024-25 Record: 23-4-1

Head Coach: Matt Funk

Conference: Suburban East

State Trips: 1998, 2006 Champions, 2009, 2022, 2023, 2024

Top Returning Players: Jonathan Bloedow, F, So. (14-21-35); Brody Ruprecht, F, So. (7-13-20); Maverick Timmons, F, Sr. (6-14-20); Max Thompson, D, Jr. (5-14-19); Camden Autrey, F, Sr. (5-12-17); Luke Palecek, F, Jr. (9-8-17); Charlie Engstrom, D, Sr. (1-14-15); Alex Bloedow, F, Sr. (3-5-8); Drew Sinna, D, Sr. (0-2-2); James Plasch, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Luca Sciara, G, Jr. (1-0-0, 2.06, .857)

Eagan Wildcats:

2024-25 Record: 5-22-0

Head Coach: Austyn Kryzer

Conference: South Suburban

State Trips: 2006, 2011, 2012, 2014

Top Returning Players: Ben Williams, F, Jr. (7-9-16); Layne Negaard, F/D, Sr. (7-8-15); John Ballmann, D, Sr. (1-11-12); Charles Forester, F/D, Sr. (2-7-9); Conor Keogh, F, Sr. (4-5-9); Maxwell Turner, F, Sr. (4-5-9); Gavin Luhrs, F, Sr. (2-3-5); Liam Thomas, F, Sr. (1-3-4); Brandon Lunneborg, F, Sr. (1-1-2); Ben Schiltgen, D, Sr. (1-1-2); Garrett Larson, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Blake Pavek, F, Sr. (0-1-1)

Eastview Lightning:

2024-25 Record: 9-17-0

Head Coach: Aaron Fulton

Conference: South Suburban

State Trips: 2001, 2013

Top Returning Players: Samuel Wooten, F, Sr. (23-16-39); Austin Dwyer, D, Jr. (4-16-20); Liam O’Donnell, F, Jr. (9-7-16); Colby Taylor, F, Sr. (3-8-11); Cole Hille, F, Sr. (1-4-5); Zachary Hyster, F, Jr. (3-1-4); Cameron Dufault, F, Sr. (0-3-3); Shane Klein, D, Sr. (1-2-3); Sawyer Haagenson, D, Sr. (0-2-2); Nicholas Titus, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Charlie Scanlon, G, Jr. (6-13-0, 4.35, .886); Zachary Wakefield, G, Jr. (3-4-0, 3.56, .864)

Park of Cottage Grove Wolfpack:

2024-25 Record: 14-11-1

Head Coach: Jeff Corkish

Conference: Suburban East

State Trips: None

Top Returning Players: Nicholas Bailey, F, Sr. (12-10-22); Luke Dahlstrom, D, Sr. (5-14-19); Gavin Sand, F, Sr. (6-10-16); Brady Siemer, F, Sr. (4-6-10); Zane Dostal, D, Sr. (1-6-7); Malachi McMorrow, F/D, Sr. (3-4-7); Quintin Wilhelmy, F, Jr. (1-6-7); Henry Voss, G, Sr. (8-5-1, 2.79, .884)

Rosemount Irish:

2024-25 Record: 23-4-0

Head Coach: Rick Saintey Jr. 

Conference: South Suburban

State Trips: 1992

Top Returning Players:  Cade Sherman, F, Sr. (23-27-50); Gavin McNeil, F, Sr. (16-26-42); Connor Schubert, F, Jr. (12-12-24); Graham Clafton, D, Sr. (3-19-22); Channing Goodwin, F, Jr. (11-8-19); Quinton VeDepo, F, Sr. (7-12-19); Sam Schmucker, F, Sr. (3-13-16); Peter DeGroot, F, Sr. (7-6-13); Jack Lenmark, F, Sr. (3-9-12); Oliver Goren, D, Sr. (0-9-9); Carter Campbell, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Zach Grove, D, Sr. (0-1-1); Sam Clements, G, Sr. (22-4-0, 2.36, .891); Charlie Pedersen, G, Sr. (1-0-0, 0.86, .955)

St. Thomas Academy Cadets:

2024-25 Record: 24-7-0

Head Coach: Mark Strobel

Conference: Metro East

State Trips: 1999, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 Champions, 2011 Champions, 2012 Champions, 2013 Champions, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2025

Top Returning Players: Cole Braunshausen, F, Sr. (22-38-60); Maverick Mckinnon, F, Fr. (22-28-50); Peter Murray, F, Sr. (10-14-24); Luca Pedri, F, Sr. (8-7-15); Gus Olson, D, Jr. (2-12-14); Cody Kronberg, D, Sr. (3-8-11); Lane Powers, F, Jr. (1-10-11); Owen Leroe, F, Sr. (0-2-2); Sam Pacovsky, D, Sr. (1-0-1); Jacksyn Crary, G, Jr. (2-1-0, 1.95, .909)

Two Rivers Warriors:

2024-25 Record: 23-4-0

Head Coach: Brandon Ferraro  

Conference: Metro East

State Trips: 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1982, 1983, 1993, 1997 (as Henry Sibley)

Top Returning Players: Ryan Rohrer, F, Sr. (12-16-28); Matthew Heymans, D, Sr. (8-19-27); Eddie Drury, F, Sr. (6-11-17); Carlo Reynolds, F, Jr. (0-3-3); Gavin Tritz, F, Jr. (1-2-3); Adam Newton, D, Jr. (1-1-2); Caden Conoryea, G, Sr. (17-5-2, 2.34, .907)

Section 4AA

Section 4 appears to be up for grabs after Stillwater’s State Finals run last season. The Ponies had one of their best seasons in program history last year, but are losing 400 total points from last year’s roster due to departures. Stillwater will still be talented, but very young. 

Perennial powerhouses Hill-Murray appear poised to reclaim their Section 4 dominance after losing their grip the last two years. The Pioneers are always in contention, and this year is no different. They aren’t just a favorite in this section, but are an early-season contender to make noise at the State Tournament. The Pioneers are led by a duo of electric senior scorers in Chaz Lentz and Riley Zupfer, who both scored 57 points last season. They’ll also return their starting goaltender, Grayson Hanggi, who logged a .926 save percentage last season.

Whitebear Lake shouldn’t be overlooked either. Nash Roed scored 25 points as a freshman, and the team expects even more out of him this year. Senior goaltender Riley Helmberger saw limited action last year but was excellent in his two wins. The Bears will also retain four of their top defenders from last season, providing the team with some consistency.

Away from the favorites, keep an eye on East Ridge’s Lance Kohnen. The junior defender is fast and skilled and should be one of the top blueliners in this section.

East Ridge Raptors:

2024-25 Record: 11-16-0

Head Coach: Dustin Vogelsang

Conference: Suburban East

State Trips: None

Top Returning Players: Emery Miller, F, Sr. (8-7-25); Ivan Schmitz, F, Sr. (15-9-24); Hank Hughes, F, Jr. (13-3-16); Lance Kohnen, D, Jr. (6-10-16); Ian Dwyer, D, Jr. (4-10-14); Thomas Halvorsen, D, Jr. (0-13-13); Brayden Braatz, F, Jr. (2-6-8); Matthew Taverna, F, Sr. (2-1-3); Elias Tomaska, G, Sr. (2-8-0, 3.89, .900); Drake Limpert, G, Jr. (0-1-0, 5.00, .815) 

Gentry Academy Stars:

2024-25 Record: 18-8-0

Head Coach: Kyle Folmer

Conference: Independent

State Trips: 2021

Top Returning Players: Jaxon Cook, F, So. (14-14-28); Nate Wilke, D, Jr. (6-13-19); Brekken Zabrok, F, Jr. (3-10-13); Collin Hennes, F, Jr. (4-8-12); Braedan Korba, F, Sr. (7-5-12); Jonathan Bigwood, F, Sr. (3-7-10); Braden Bois, F, Jr. (2-8-10); Colby Macoskey, D, Sr. (1-7-8); Copper Wyland, F, Sr. (1-2-3); Talen Proulx, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Gavin Frose, G, Sr. (11-1-0, 2.15, .903); Raef Roller, G, Jr. (0-0-0, 0.00, 1.000)

Hill-Murray Pioneers:

2024-25 Record: 24-3-1

Head Coach: Bill Lechner

Conference: Metro East

State Trips: 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1983 Champions, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1991 Champions, 1992, 1993, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2006, 2007, 2008 Champions, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2020 Champions, 2021, 2022, 2023 

Top Returning Players: Chaz Lentz, F, Sr. (20-37-57); Riley Zupfer, F, Jr. (20-37-57); Caden Zasada, F, Jr. (21-9-30); Tommy Miller, D, Sr. (6-13-19); Brady Morrell, F, Sr. (7-12-10); Landon Sampair, F, So. (1-6-7); John Whisler, F, Jr. (5-2-7); Easton Salscheider, F, Sr. (1-1-2); Ryker Rivard, D, Sr. (0-1-1); Grason Hanggi, G, Sr. (19-3-1, 1.72, .926)

Mounds View Mustangs:

2024-25 Record: 5-22-0

Head Coach: Darrell Schulte

Conference: Suburban East

State Trips: 1968, 1969, 1976, 1977, 1978

Top Returning Players: Tobias Walseth, F, Jr. (8-10-18); Russell Eck, F, Jr. (7-9-16); Isaac Snider, D, Jr. (2-10-12); Jack Wendland, D, Sr. (0-5-5); Cal Anderson, F, Jr. (0-4-4); Chase Ballinger, F, Jr. (0-2-2); Friedrich Rech, F, Jr. (1-1-2); Sam Hagel, G, Sr. (2-4-0, 5.35, .865)

Roseville Area Raiders:

2024-25 Record: 16-11-1

Head Coach: Scott Steffen

Conference: Suburban East

State Trips: 1987, 2002, 2003

Top Returning Players: Grant Jakaboski, F, Jr. (20-17-37); Garrett Hites, F, Jr. (12-11-23); Wyatt Hauer, F, Sr. (6-5-11); Oliver Sitek, F, Sr. (1-1-2); Connor Fox, D, Jr. (0-1-1); Cooper Stevens, G, Sr. (16-10-0, 3.60, .885); Henri Hammes-Dahlke, G, Sr. (0-1-0, 6.27, .778) 

Stillwater Area Ponies:

2024-25 Record: 24-7-0

Head Coach: Greg Zanon

Conference: Suburban East

State Trips: 2014, 2016, 2025

Top Returning Players: Jonas Kohn, D, Sr. (5-26-31); Tate Batchelor, D, Jr. (2-20-22); Cal Grilz, D, Sr. (5-10-15); Luca Frascone, F, Sr. (4-1-5); Liam McGlynn, F, Jr. (0-1-1); Ryder Wylie, D, Jr. (0-1-1); Gavin Bajda, G, Sr. (3-1-0, 2.25, .895)

White Bear Lake Bears:

2024-25 Record: 7-17-2

Head Coach: Jeanette Bealke/Claudia Verkeke

Conference: Suburban East

State Trips: 1945, 1946, 1949, 1951, 1956, 1966, 1967, 1970, 1982, 1989, 1990, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1998, 2001, 2003, 2005, 2011, 2019, 2024

Top Returning Players: Nash Roed, F, So. (11-14-25); Tanner Olsen, D, Sr. (1-16-17); Liam Maloy, F, Jr. (8-6-14); Tyler Lalonde, F, Sr. (6-3-9); Zachary Baay, D, Sr. (2-6-8); Noah Norman, F, Sr. (4-4-8); Rian Marquardt, D, Jr. (2-5-7); Carson Richie, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Riley Helmberger, G, Sr. (2-0-0, 1.00, .939)

Woodbury Royals:

2024-25 Record: 10-15-1

Head Coach: Wes Bolin

Conference: Suburban East

State Trips: 2007, 2008

Top Returning Players: Jack Oleson, F, Sr. (10-12-22); John Eschweiler, F, Sr. (4-16-20); Julian Torres, F, Sr. (7-8-15); Sam Sanchez, D, Sr. (2-6-8); Owen Fownes, F, Sr. (4-2-6); Connor Heart, D, Sr. (0-3-3); Brayden Herrig, F, Sr. (0-3-3); Cooper Anderson, D, Jr. (0-1-1); Michael Pietruszewski, G, Sr. (8-9-1)

Section 5AA

Section 5 features a collection of teams with extensive experience, which may separate the contenders from those in a rebuilding year. The top of the section certainly fits into the experienced category, with Maple Grove and Andover being two strong examples.

The Maple Grove Crimson will return six of their top seven scorers from last season, including their trio of Wyatt Kuznick, Jaden Roueche, and Lane Glende, who all eclipsed 25 points. Eight seniors will skate for Maple Grove this year in a season where they’ll look to contend for the state title.

Last year’s Section 7 winner, the Andover Huskies, is in a similar situation. The Huskies are returning 15 letterwinners while losing just four. That returning group includes six of their top seven scorers from last season, all of whom are juniors or seniors. KJ Sauer is entering his senior season with the Huskies and should be one of the best forwards in the section.

Champlin Park, on the other hand, will be a relatively inexperienced team other than their senior goaltender, Tanner Wylie. The netminder played 20 games last season and recorded two shutouts while notching 12 wins. He should be a steadying force for one of the section’s rare teams without much experience.

Andover Huskies:

2024-25 Record: 15-15-0

Head Coach: Mark Manney

Conference: Northwest Suburban

State Trips: 2020, 2021, 2022 Champions, 2023, 2025

Top Returning Players: Camden Langfeld, F, Jr. (12-25-37); KJ Sauer, F, Sr. (17-15-32); Chase Nadeau, D, Sr. (5-25-30); Brody Peterson, F, Sr. (7-9-16); Owen Lutgen, D, Sr. (6-9-15)l William Thackeray, F, Jr. (6-6-12); Jack Rykkeli, F, So. (4-7-11); Keaton Cole, F, Sr. (5-5-10); Casey Rodgers, D, Sr. (2-5-7); Dillon Larsen, F, Sr. (1-4-5); Cooper Johannsen, D, Sr. (1-1-2)

Anoka Tornadoes:

2024-25 Record: 15-15-0

Head Coach: Brian Pender

Conference: Northwest Suburban

State Trips: 1985, 1990, 1997, 1998, 2003 Champions, 2016

Top Returning Players: Landon Lafferty, F, Jr. (9-5-14); Carson Nedlund, F, Sr. (4-7-11); Brady Roof, F, Jr. (7-1-8); Luca Gannucci, F, Sr. (2-4-6); Joshua Ryther, D, Jr. (1-5-6); Charlie Jensen, F, Sr. (4-1-5); Logan Pender, D, Sr. (0-4-4); Griffin Johnson, F, Jr. (0-3-3); Camden Mortinson, D, Sr. (2-1-3); Ben Carlson, F, Sr. (1-0-1); Blake Weinhold, D, Sr. (0-1-1); Will Beggs, G, Jr. (0-1-0, 7.08, .792); Cohen Kuehne, G, Sr. (0-4-0, 7.33, .859)

Blaine Bengals:

2024-25 Record: 17-10-0

Head Coach: Trevor Frischmon

Conference: Northwest Suburban

State Trips: 1992, 1996, 1999, 2000 Champions, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2015, 2019

Top Returning Players: Grady Bautch, F, Jr. (11-19-30); Cooper Bayer, F, Sr. (11-18-29); Porter Bayer, F, So. (12-17-29); Wilson Guse, F, Sr. (7-22-29); Franklin Loo, F, Sr. (13-16-29); Brody Lockman, F, So. (10-11-21); Nate Wallraff, F, Sr. (10-10-20); Tanner Ferdig, D, Sr. (3-9-12); Cooper Sterner, D, Sr. (0-2-2); Wesley Andrle, G, Jr. (3-1-0, 2.45, .908); Anthony Postudensek, G, Jr. (3-1-0, 1.75, .939)

Centennial Cougars:

2024-25 Record: 9-17-0

Head Coach: Ritch Menne

Conference: Northwest Suburban

State Trips: 2004 Champions, 2013, 2014, 2018, 2024 Champions

Top Returning Players: Joseph Hemr, F, Sr. (13-15-28); Gavin Cunningham, F, Sr. (8-16-24); Cooper Hehir, D, Sr. (5-12-17); Kaden Johnson, F, Jr. (10-7-17); Nick Carls, F, Sr. (7-8-15); Nolan Border, F, Jr. (3-6-9); Keegan Julik, F, Sr. (1-2-3); Matthew Siegler, D, Sr. (2-1-3); Tanner Dittrich, F, Sr. (2-0-2); Kellen Searles, D, Sr. (0-2-2); Flynn Sanburg, G, Jr. (1-0-0, 1.00, .957); Quinn Gould, G, Sr. (0-1-0, 3.86, .872)

Champlin Park Rebels:

2024-25 Record: 18-10-0

Head Coach: Tom Potter

Conference: Northwest Suburban

State Trips: 1995

Top Returning Players: Carson Anderson, F, Sr. (12-15-27); Brody Holoien, F, So. (11-15-26); Luke Carlson, F, Jr. (7-4-11); Paul Pazandak, F, Sr. (4-5-9); Max Peterson, F, Sr. (4-5-9); Rhys George, F, Sr. (2-6-8); Derek Roehl, D, Jr. (1-7-8); Gabe Contons, D, Sr. (0-1-1); Emerson Maifeld, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Cal Ockuly, D, Sr. (0-1-1); Tanner Wylie, G, Sr. (12-8-0, 3.09, .882)

Maple Grove Crimson:

2024-25 Record: 16-10-1

Head Coach: Todd Bergland

Conference: Lake

State Trips: 2012, 2017, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023

Top Returning Players: Wyatt Kuznik, F, Jr. (15-22-37); Jaden Roueche, F, Jr. (11-18-29); Lane Glende, F, Sr. (10-17-27); Tommy Picconatto, D, Sr. (3-14-17); Charlie Steenerson, D, Sr. (4-13-17); Cale Braid, F, Sr. (5-7-12); Matthew Johnson, F, Jr. (5-6-11); Lukas Smith, D, Jr. (1-9-10); Gavin Kustermann, F, Sr. (3-4-7); Henry Miller, D, Sr. (1-6-7); Dylan Campbell, D, Sr. (2-2-4); Ryder Skanson, G, Sr. (2-0-0, 1.00, .957)

Spring Lake Park/Coon Rapids:

2024-25 Record: 15-15-0

Head Coach: Connor Gagnon

Conference: Northwest Suburban

State Trips: 2015 (as Spring Lake Park)

Top Returning Players: Andrew Clark, F, Sr. (11-17-28); Jackson Barsness, F, Sr. (5-12-17); Toby Tranby, D, Sr. (0-12-12); Caden Jensen, D, Sr. (0-5-5); Austin Adams, D, Sr. (0-2-2); Zach Bushy, G, Sr. (1-1-0, 4.80, .812)

Totino Grace Eagles:

2024-25 Record: 15-10-1

Head Coach: Tim Parkos

Conference: Northwest Suburban

State Trips: 1993, 1995, 2002 Champions, 2005, 2014

Top Returning Players: Roger Mourad, F, Sr. (16-14-30); Liam Hamre, F, Sr. (9-18-27); Noah Osland, F, Sr. (9-14-23); Keegan Kiedrowski, D, Sr. (3-18-21); Gus Hay, F, Sr. (9-10-19); Aj Lach, D, So. (0-16-16); Nolan Mason, F, Jr. (3-7-10)

Section 6AA

There are some sections where a couple of teams are deserving of a State Tournament run, but due to the section format, only one can advance. Section 6 may have a few teams that end their season thinking about what could have been. The section boasts five teams ranked in Breakdown Sports’ preseason top 15, which is sure to create some major fireworks.

Edina is always a threat to win the section, having taken the crown six of the last eight years. They won’t have any of their top four scorers from last season, but are more than able to replenish that with their upcoming talent. The team is always well-coached and also returns two strong goaltenders. The Hornets, as always, are a team with a great chance to advance.

Rogers will also look to contend in the section, with ten returning seniors, including Cole Bumgarner, who returns for his senior season after a stint in the USHL. Brock Cheslock is a possible breakout contender for this year’s Mr. Hockey award and defender Matthew Hauser is one of the best in the state, too.

As mentioned, the section has no shortage of more contenders, including both Holy Angels and Benilde-St. Margaret’s and Wayzata are set to make a run. Holy Angels, in particular, should be an exciting team to watch, with four players returning who scored more than 50 points last season.

Benilde-St. Margaret’s Red Knights:

2024-25 Record: 21-6-0 

Head Coach: Ken Pauly

Conference: Metro West

State Trips: 1999 Champions, 2001 Champions, 2008, 2012 Champions

Top Returning Players: Keegan Davis, F, Sr. (17-17-34); Nick Johnson, D, Sr. (3-16-19); Tyler Kirschner, F, Jr. (4-14-18); Connor Timmins, F, Jr. (6-8-14); Mason Smith, D, Sr. (3-9-12); Grayson Quirk, F, Sr. (5-5-10); Bergen Kopischke, F, Sr. (1-5-6); Christopher Dean, G, Sr. (16-5-0, 2.09, .906); Alex Beaton, G, Jr. (1-1-0, 3.01, .868)

Buffalo Bisons:

2024-25 Record: 6-20-0 

Head Coach: Aaron Johnson

Conference: Lake

State Trips: None

Top Returning Players: Brandon Rodenwald, F, Sr. (16-12-28); Cooper Dalbec, F, Jr. (8-10-18); Evan Hinnenkamp, F, Sr. (4-11-15); Russell Yitalo, F, Sr. (5-9-14); Braylen Dahl, D, Sr. (1-4-5); Sawyer Sawdey, F, Jr. (1-2-3); Nolan Rumsch, F, Sr. (1-1-2); Charlie Rosso, D, Sr. (0-1-1); Aubrey Baker, G, Sr. (2-9-0, 5.50, .831); Logan Preugschas, G, Jr. (2-5-0, 4.76, .854)

Edina Hornets:

2024-25 Record: 22-7-2 

Head Coach: Curt Giles

Conference: Lake

State Trips: 1973, 1974 Champions, 1977, 1978 Champions, 1979 Champions (as Edina East), 1981 (as Edina West), 1955, 1956, 1957, 1960, 1962, 1967, 1968, 1969 Champions, 1970, 1971 Champions, 1972, 1982 Champions, 1983, 1984 Champions, 1987, 1988 Champions, 1989, 1995, 1996, 1997 Champions, 1998, 2000, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 Champions, 2011, 2012, 2013 Champions, 2014 Champions, 2015, 2018, 2019 Champions, 2022, 2023, 2024 Champions, 2025

Top Returning Players: Tucker Johnson, F, Sr. (8-21-29); Sam Peckham, D, Sr. (3-22-25); Bode McConnell, F, Jr. (16-3-19); Alex White, F, Sr. (7-12-19); Brady Peterson, F, Sr. (4-11-15); Becker Wenkus, D, So. (3-10-13); Brady Mullmann, D, Sr. (2-10-12); Dylan Dubuc, D, Sr. (2-7-9); David Varecka, F, Sr. (0-2-2); Chase Bjorgaard, G, Sr. (11-1-1, 1.81, .929); Wyatt Spindler, G, Sr. (11-4-1, 2.01, .912); Ryan Keeley, G, Jr. (0-2-0, 3.29, .879)

Holy Angels Stars:

2024-25 Record: 22-4-1 

Head Coach: Pat Griswold 

Conference: Tri-Metro

State Trips: 1999 Champions, 2002 Champions, 2003, 2004, 2005 Champions

Top Returning Players: Cole Cheeseman, F, Sr. (26-39-65); Gabriel Perron, D, Sr. (12-46-58); Lincoln Ayers Assad, F, Sr. (30-27-57); Avinash Kasargod, D, Sr. (8-39-47); Teddy Lechner, D, Jr. (5-23-28); Oscar Buckland, F, Jr. (5-17-22); Bennett MacKenzie, F, So. (6-10-16); Leo Stebbins, D, Sr. (2-1-3); Rogan Vanbellinger, F/D, 0-3-3); George Sill, G, Sr. (2-0-0, 2.00, .907)

Hopkins Royals:

2024-25 Record: 10-16-0 

Head Coach: Dylan Talkovic

Conference: Independent

State Trips: 1975, 1980

Top Returning Players: Kirill Udaltsov, F, Sr. (8-24-32); Madden Brown, F, So. (11-12-23); William Hoiska, F, Jr. (1-15-16); Benjamin Knight, D, Sr. (1-5-6); Garrett Lochner, D, Jr. (0-5-5); Baylor Paul, D, Sr. (0-2-2); Noah Carr, D, Sr. (0-1-1)

Robbinsdale Armstrong/Cooper Wings:

2024-25 Record: 8-17-1 

Head Coach: Casey Maikkula

Conference: Northwest Suburban

State Trips: None

Top Returning Players: Brady Northrup, F, Sr. (13-15-28); Niklas Anderson, F, Jr. (9-12-21); Tanner Cassidy, D, Sr. (5-12-17); Tate Gladney, F, Sr. (5-9-14); Hobey Skulstad, D, Sr. (2-11-13); Lucas Wodtke, F, Sr. (3-1-4); Dallas Bentzen, D, Sr. (0-2-2); Jacob Pangarakis, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Nolan Wigfield, F, Sr. (0-1-1)

Rogers Royals:

2024-25 Record: 23-5-2 

Head Coach: David Brown

Conference: Northwest Suburban

State Trips: 2025

Top Returning Players: Brock Cheslock, F, Sr. (17-22-39); Avenir Belous, F, Sr. (11-14-25); Matthew Hauser, D, Sr. (6-19-25); Jayden Kurtz, D, Sr. (5-15-20); Cam Lubke, F, Sr. (5-7-12); Hudson Kottke, F, Sr. (5-6-11); Koen Hochstaetter, D, Sr. (0-1-1); Blake Sinclair, D, Sr. (0-1-1); Tyler Bacon, G, Sr. (2-0-0, 1.00, .905)

Wayzata Trojans:

2024-25 Record: 21-6-0 

Head Coach: Pat O’Leary

Conference: Lake

State Trips: 1954, 2004, 2013, 2016 Champions, 2017

Top Returning Players: Eli Molde, F, Sr. (12-24-36); Jackson Hendricks, F, Jr. (12-11-23); Christopher Pyle, F, Sr. (11-10-21); McCoy Kurtz, F, Jr. (8-10-18); Tommy Colmenero, F, Sr. (3-12-15); Kruz Sauer, F, Jr. (4-11-15); Drew Peterson, F, Sr. (3-5-8); Ryan Pellinger, G, Sr. (13-8-3)

Section 7AA

Andover’s move away from Section 7 has left a power gap, and it will be interesting to see who can fill it. 

Rock Ridge is a strong candidate, boasting a solid returning class and one of the best goaltenders in the state. Wyatt Jonassen is entering his senior season after losing just one game in regulation last year and registering a .925 save percentage. He may be the most impactful player in the section regardless of position. 

The section is also home to three Duluth high schools, of which Marshall appears to be the strongest. The Hilltoppers went 15-10-2 last season and are returning their top seven scorers, all of whom topped 20 points last year. Bennett Scissons is particularly lethal, scoring 20 goals and adding 29 assists last campaign.

Grand Rapids is another team that could make a push for the tournament, though they’ll have to answer a lot of questions in net after the departure of standout goalkeeper Carter Casey. Still, the Thunderhawks have been a strong team in recent years, and that trend is expected to continue this season. They’re led by Nathan Garski, a senior forward who scored 39 points last season.

Cambridge-Isanti Bluejackets:

2024-25 Record: 11-15-1

Head Coach: Scott Overby

Conference: Mississippi 8

State Trips: 1992

Top Returning Players: Bennett Bergloff, F, Sr. (25-21-46); Blake Wotachek, F, Sr. (12-9-21); Jackson Ziebarth, F/D, Sr. (9-7-16); Jacob Bostrom, F, Sr. (5-8-13); Weston Terhell, F, Sr. (4-7-11); Ike Boughton, D, Sr. (0-4-4); Daniel Klossner, D, Jr. (0-1-1)

Duluth Denfeld Hunters:

2024-25 Record: 11-15-0

Head Coach: Dale Jago

Conference: Lake Superior

State Trips: 1954, 1996 (as Central), 1986, 1989 (as Denfeld)

Top Returning Players: Alexander Udd, F, Sr. (11-7-18); Bruno DeCambaliza, D, Sr. (1-12-13); Drew Doyle, F, Jr. (3-7-10); Cory Backstrom, F, Sr. (4-5-9); Liam Doyle, F, Sr. (2-7-9); Jacob Hoch, F, Sr. (5-4-9); Jakob Smith, F, Sr. (2-7-9); Mason Feiro, D, Sr. (2-6-8); Mason Kingsley, F, Sr. (3-5-8); Gabriel Miner, G, Sr. (0-4-0, 6.94, .831)

Duluth East Greyhounds:

2024-25 Record: 4-23-0

Head Coach: Steve Pitoscia

Conference: Independent

State Trips: 1958, 1960 Champions, 1961, 1964, 1975, 1991, 1994, 1995 Champions, 1996, 1997, 1998 Champions, 2000, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019

Top Returning Players: Marccus Anttila, F, Sr. (6-9-15); Fin Kuzmuk, F, Jr. (4-5-9); Brody Goldsworthy, F, Sr. (4-4-8); Landon Pearce, D, Sr. (2-4-6); Henrik Spenningsby, D, Sr. (1-5-6); Jax Edgerton, F, Jr. (1-3-4); Kole Johnson, F, Sr. (2-2-4); Zachary Vallie, F, Sr. (1-2-3); Cole Licari, D, Sr. (0-2-2); David Ching, D, Sr. (0-1-1); Nolan Nygaard, G, Sr. (4-18-0, 4.84, .862)

Duluth Marshall Hilltoppers:

2024-25 Record: 15-10-2

Head Coach: Shawn Bartlette

Conference: Lake Superior

State Trips: 2001, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2012, 2013

Top Returning Players: Bennett Scissons, F, Sr. (20-29-49); Kyler Black, F, Sr. (14-26-40); Benson Peterson, F, Sr. (18-19-37); Samuel Berry, F, Jr. (10-19-29); Layton Anderson, D, Sr. (5-21-26); Ethan Saukko, D, Sr. (1-12-13); Oden Johnson-Brunette, F, Sr. (5-5-10); Rilo Heydt, D, Sr. (1-8-9); Wyatt Brown, G, Jr. (6-1-0, 1.86, .916)

Forest Lake Rangers:

2024-25 Record: 11-15-0

Head Coach: Jay Ekman

Conference: Suburban East

State Trips: None

Top Returning Players: Ryder Siedow, F, Sr. (16-17-33); Nate Peterson, F, Sr. (8-11-19); Thomas Heikkila, D, Sr. (3-13-16); Tucker Pederson, D, Sr. (2-10-12); Dylan Reuter, D, Jr. (2-5-7); Devon Rehbein, D, Sr. (0-6-6); Evan Rychley, F, Jr. (0-2-2); Zachary Schnabel, G, Sr. (10-14-0, 4.12, .858); Anthony Airhart, G, Sr. (1-1-0, 2.51, .884)

Grand Rapids Thunderhawks:

2024-25 Record: 16-9-2

Head Coach: Grant Clifton

Conference: Lake Superior

State Trips: 1972, 1974, 1975 Champions, 1976 Champions, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980 Champions, 1981, 1988, 1990, 1991, 2006, 2007, 2016, 2017 Champions, 2024

Top Returning Players: Nathan Garski, F, Sr. (14-25-39); Jameson Duell, F, Sr. (18-17-35); Ander Rajala, F, Jr. (12-19-31); Seth Carlson, F, Sr. (7-11-18); Grant Vershey, D, Jr. (1-13-14); Will Miskovich, F, Sr. (6-6-12); Dylan Clayton, F, Sr. (2-7-9); Colton Stupar, D, Sr. (1-8-9); Alexander Salisbury, D, Sr. (3-3-6); Jaxon Rabbers, D, Sr. (0-2-2); Owen Simons, D, Sr. (0-2-2)

Northern Edge:

2024-25 Record: 6-20-0

Head Coach: Jason Hehir

Conference: Mississippi 8

State Trips: 2019 (as North Brand)

Top Returning Players: Riley Dufour, F, Jr. (14-6-20); Gavyn Gutierrez, F, Sr. (8-7-15); Hunter Sanders, F, Sr. (5-9-14); Ryan Troxell, F, Sr. (8-5-13); Alex Hoffman, F, Sr. (3-7-10); Ben Fruth, F, Jr. (7-2-9); Paul Wolters, D, Sr. (2-5-7); Matthew Wolters, D, Sr. (0-3-3); Gage Husby, G, Sr. (6-19-0, 6.73, .849)

Rock Ridge Wolverines:

2024-25 Record: 11-15-1

Head Coach: Matt Niskanen

Conference: Lake Superior

State Trips: 1945 Champions, 1946, 1947, 1948 Champions, 1949 Champions, 1950 Champions, 1951 Champions, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1960, 1993 Champions, 1998 Champions (as Eveleth-Gilbert), 2005, 2009, 2010 (as Virginia/MIB)

Section 8AA

Section 8 produced last year’s State Champion after Moorhead captured their first championship as a program. They’re the favorite to come out of this section for the seventh time in the last nine years.

The Spuds are graduating several key players from their title team, but have a strong youth pipeline and JV squad to replace the lost production. Senior Tyden Bergeson will attempt to become Morehead’s second straight Mr. Hockey Award Winner after Mason Kraft won the award last year. Brandon Mickelson should be in the running for the Reed Larson Award and junior Zac Zimmerman is also returning after a 78-point season last year. 

Elk River/Zimmerman and Bemidji may be the strongest competition for the section title. The Elks return seven of their top eight scorers. Tristan Kreich will be a fascinating player to watch in his senior season after he scored 41 points last year. Bemidji won 20 games last season. 

The Alexandria Area team should be an interesting one to watch as they make the jump to Class AA. They’re an experienced team with several trips to the Class A Tournament over the last several years. They’re backstopped by senior goalkeeper Brady Schluter, one of the best goalies in the section.

Alexandria Cardinals:

2024-25 Record: 14-14-0

Head Coach: Landon Olson

Conference: Central Lakes

State Trips: 1992, 1996, 2010, 2011, 2018, 2022, 2023, 2024

Top Returning Players: Grady Olson, F, Jr. (10-22-32); Evan Klimek, F, Sr. (8-18-26); Brody Berg, F, Sr. (18-7-25); Charlie Bassen, F, Sr. (9-14-23); Ehren Anderson, F, Jr. (12-8-20); Niklas Schultz, D, Sr. (2-13-15); Owen Klimek, F, So. (5-5-10); Miles Breitzman, F, Sr. (3-6-9); Aidan Schneiderhan, D, Sr. (1-4-5); Bennett Waldorf, Sr. (1-3-4); Hunter Haskamp, F, Sr. (1-2-3); Jack Van Bruggen, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Brady Schluter, G, Sr. (10-10-2.71, .903)

Bemidji Lumberjacks:

2024-25 Record: 20-6-2

Head Coach: Ben Kinne

Conference: Mariucci

State Trips: 1972, 1973, 1974, 1976, 1985, 1986, 2015, 2016

Top Returning Players: Cal Mattfield, F, Sr. (11-12-23); Taevon Welle, F, Sr. (8-13-21); Griffin Dewar, F, Sr. (8-6-14); Eli Kringen, D, Sr. (0-6-6); Dawson Schoonover, F ,Sr. (3-3-6); Nate Valley, F, Sr. (1-4-5); Cal Barnes, D, Sr. (0-1-1); Christian Hill, G, Sr. (2-1-2, 2.25, .902)

Brainerd Warriors:

2024-25 Record: 5-21-1

Head Coach: Jerr Johnson

Conference: Central Lakes

State Trips: None

Top Returning Players: Zander Peterson, F, Sr. (9-14-23); Drew Haakonson, D, Sr. (2-19-21); Richard Pyle, F, Jr. (6-4-10); Dylan Wenshau, F, Sr. (2-8-10); Cooper Katzenberger, F, Sr. (3-3-6); Axton Peterson, F, Jr. (6-0-6); Logan Ciardelli, F, Jr. (1-4-5); Benjamin Fields, F, Sr. (2-0-2); Jack Liebel, D, Sr. (0-2-2); Tate Oium, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Griffin Bartholomaus, G, Jr. (2-13-1, 3.82, .873); Tristan Rollins, G, Sr. (1-2-0, 4.67, .823)

Elk River/Zimmerman Elks:

2024-25 Record: 11-14-2

Head Coach: Ben Gustafson

Conference: Northwest Suburban

State Trips: 1993, 1999, 2001 Champions, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2024

Top Returning Players: Tristan Kriech, F, Sr. (22-19-41); Logan Rustad, F, Jr. (14-26-40); Luke Patraw, F, Sr. (14-13-27); Grant Schauer, D, Jr. (3-13-16); Joey Kotzian, D, Sr. (4-9-13); Rylan Hanson, D, Jr. (2-8-10); Tommy Olson, F, Sr. (3-4-7); Caine Christensen, F, Sr. (2-4-6); Hudson Miller, D, Sr. (2-3-5); Tommy McDonald, F, Sr. (0-2-2); Jack Risse, F, Sr. (0-2-2); Jack Stimac, G, Sr. (0-3-0, 4.49, .865)

Moorhead Spuds:

2024-25 Record: 14-14-0

Head Coach: Jon Ammerman

Conference: Mariucci

State Trips: 1992, 1993 Champions, 1994, 1995, 1997, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2025 Champions

Top Returning Players: Zac Zimmerman, F, Jr. (32-46-78), Tyden Bergeson, F, Sr. (25-26-51); Brandon Mickelson, D, Sr. (8-36-44); Max Cullen, F, Sr. (11-17-28); Evan Wanner, F, Jr. (10-12-22); Drew Simonich, D, Jr. (2-16-18); Zakary Devig, D, Sr. (0-14-14); Brady Steffen, D, Sr. (2-11-13); Michael Herman, F, Sr. (1-6-7); Seamus Campbell, F, Sr. (3-3-6); Brayden Kvamme, F, Sr. (3-0-3); George Arnold, F, Sr. (1-1-2); Nolan Cook, G, Sr. (0-0-0, 2.30, .917) 

Roseau Rams:

2024-25 Record: 15-11-1

Head Coach: Greg Lund

Conference: Mariucci

State Trips: 1946 Champions, 1947, 1953, 1955, 1957, 1958 Champions, 1959 Champions, 1961 Champions, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1971, 1975, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1981, 1983, 1984, 1990 Champions, 1991, 1998, 1999 Champions, 2000, 2006, 2007 Champions, 2008, 2010, 2014

Top Returning Players:Jude Wittrock, F, Sr. (11-16-27); Tyler George, F, Jr. (6-10-16); Aram Waage, F, Jr. (3-7-10); Hal Brellenthin, F, So. (2-6-8); Breck Hammer, D, Sr. (1-2-3); Taden Peterson, D, Jr. (1-2-3); Liam Johnson, D, Sr. (0-2-2); Greyson Lundbohm, F, Jr. (1-0-1); Mack Mertens, F, Sr. (0-1-1); Brendan Simmons, G, So. (1-1-0, 3.00, .862)

St. Cloud Crush:

2024-25 Record: 5-20-1

Head Coach: Pete Matanich

Conference: Central Lakes

State Trips: 1945, 1946, 1947, 1948, 1950, 1951, 1952 (as Tech), 1984, 2013, 2015 (as Apollo)

Top Returning Players: Corbin Matanich, F, So. (3-11-14); Logan Ylinen, F, So. (6-1-7); Landon O’Donnell, F, So. (3-3-6); Jackson Stuber, F, Jr. (3-3-6); Lincoln O’Donnell, D, Sr. (0-5-5); Aiden Yurzyck, F, Sr. (1-4-5); Casey Hiller, D, Jr. (3-0-3); Rylan Sakariason, F, Sr. (3-0-3); Jace Wucherer, F, Sr. (1-2-3); Carson Siers, D, Sr. (1-1-2); Nolan Lund, G, Sr. (3-7-1, 4.56, .841); Finn Johnson, G, Sr. (0-1-0, 3.93, .750)

St. Michael-Albertville Knights:

2024-25 Record: 11-15-0

Head Coach: Sean Fish

Conference: Lake

State Trips: 2018

Top Returning Players: Tanner Esterberg, F, Sr. (27-15-42); Easton Monahan, F, Jr. (6-22-28); Braeden Waller, F, Jr. (11-16-27); Owen Volkenant, Jr. (9-16-25); Levi Antoine, F, Sr. (7-5-12); Wyatt Tauer, D, Jr. (2-10-12); Brady Luedemann, F, Sr. (4-5-9); Henry Robinson, F, Sr. (0-2-2); Ethan Johnson, G, Jr. (6-8-0, 4.13, .885); Lucas Ingebrigtson, G, Sr. (5-7-0, 3.66, .890)