Tuesday night was Griffin Pride Night for the Groves Academy Griffins and Max Bilcik took pride in his team's offensive production scoring a team high 24 points to lead them to a 77-60 win over the Math & Science Academy Dragons in St. Louis Park.
Charlie Eng would begin the scoring for the Dragons as he hit a three pointer :40 into the game. Bilcik and Nick Maiers would put the Girffins on a 5-0 run and Math & Science Academy would regain the lead on Eng's second shot from Minnetonka Blvd. Groves Academy would go on a 13-0 run to distance themselves from Math & Science Academy who only go production from Eng most of the first half. He would score the Dragons first 13 points before Ahmed Elhassen would become the second Math & science player to break into the scoring column. The Griffins would break the game open further as they would go on an 11-0 run late in the first half that included four straight points from Larry Mohamed. Foul trouble would plague Malik Bodden as he picked up his third foul with :38.5 left in the first half though Groves Academy would lead 42-21 at halftime.
The second half started just like the first when Eng hit a three pointer :31 into the second half. Bodden would heat up on offense for the Griffins as he scored four straight points to put Groves Academy on a 9-0 run. Bilcik would also go on a run with five straight points. Would the game go into running time at the 9:00 mark of the second half? The answer would be no as Math & Science Academy would got their offense in sync as Eng scored five straight points and Jager Hanson would score six straight but it wouldn't be enough for the Dragons to catch up as both teams played their reserves players the rest of the way.
Other players in double figures for Groves Academy were Bodden with 17 points and Mohamed with 15. Eng led the Dragons with a game-high 30 points, the only player from Math & Science in double figures.
Groves Academy improved their record to 9-12 and wrap up their regular season on Friday, February 23 as the host the Liberty Classical Academy Lions at 7 PM. It will also be Senior Night. Math & Science Academy fell to 1-18 and hosts the Nova Classical Academy Knights on Thursday, February 22 at 7 PM.
At halftime, there was a scrimmage between Groves Academy's Upper School and Lower School teams. The assistant coach of the Lower School team was former Griffin Anthony Gjere.
Tuesday, February 20, 2018
Monday, February 19, 2018
2018 Class A Boys Hockey Section Preview
After examining the eight Class AA sections, it's time to look at the eight Class A sections.
In Section 1, the Jason Fornwald Era has got off to a good start at Albert Lea. Fornwald who replaced Roy Nystrom who retired after 44 years leading the Tigers has led them to the top seed and a nine game unbeaten streak. They will have to get past the second seeded Mankato East/Loyola Cougars and the second seeded Minnesota River Bulldogs.
Section 2 has several teams in the hunt for a state tournament berth. First is the top seeded Orono Spartans, followed by their Wright County Conference rivals, the second seeded Mound-Westonka Whitehawks and the third seeded Delano Tigers. Looking to pull the upset is the fourth seeded Minneapolis Novas and the fifth seeded Providence Academy Lions. What about the Breck Mustangs? Since head coach Les Larson stepped down, the Mustangs have gone from a 22 win season last year to only 7 wins and a number six seed this season.
Down south to Section 3 with the top seeded Luverne Cardinals looking for a return trip to the X after they lost in overtime in last year's quarterfinals to the eventual Class A champion Hermantown Hawks. But look out for the second seeded Litchfield/Dassel Cokato Dragons and the third seeded Marshall Tigers.
Over in Section 4, the top seed is the Mahtomedi Zephyrs who got off to a solid start with an 8-0-1 record before going 10-6 the rest of the season. It should be an outstanding race with the second seeded South St. Paul Packers, the third seeded Simley Spartans, the fourth seeded St. Paul Johnson Governors and the fifth seeded Northfield Raiders. Who will emerge with the championship trophy?
Now to Section 5 with the Monticello Magic the top seed. It's just Monitcello this season as the dropped the Moose nickname as well as the co-op between the communities of Annandale and Maple Lake. The magical mystery tour through the section could be tough for Monticello as a couple of teams are on a roll en route to the first trip to the X. They are the second seeded North Branch Vikings and the third seeded Pine City Dragons. The Dragons are on a 13 game winning streak since they lost to Simley on December 26 in the Schwan Cup quarterfinals. There could also be a possible rematch with the Vikings, who beat them 3-2 in overtime on December 19. Could Pine City be the sleeper team in the section?
Two St. Cloud area teams are the top two seeds in Section 6. The top seeded St. Cloud Cathedral Crusaders look to return down I-94 to St. Paul after they lost to Hermantown in overtime in last year's Class A semifinals. The second seeded Sartell-St. Stephen Sabres have an identical record and lost to the Crusaders 5-1 on December 29. A rematch could be possible if both teams advance to the section final. Also in the hunt is the third seeded Alexandria Cardinals.
Though Bruce Plante retired after leading Hermantown to the Class A championship last season, he left the program in good hands as new head coach Patrick Andrews has led the Hawks past a 1-3 start to the top seed in Section 7. first they have to take care of the second seeded Greenway/Nashwauk Keewatin Raiders. Could the third seeded Virginia/Mountain-Iron Buhl Blue Devils also go for the gold?
And finally in Section 8, there's no dominate favorite as six teams have winning records but only one will make the trip to St. Paul. The top seed and getting a first round bye is the Warroad Warriors. Also with a first round bye is the second seeded East Grand Forks Green Wave. The two quarterfinal games could be interesting as the sixth seeded Detroit Lakes Lakers go for their first trip to state since 1996 against the third seeded Crookston Pirates and the fifth seeded Lake of the Woods Bears head to Thief River Falls to face the Prowlers. If there's no snowstorm March 1, take a drive up to Warroad for the section final. It will answer the question "Who will play for a trip to the state tournament?"
That's a preview of the Class A & AA sections. Expect packed houses on the Road to St. Paul.
In Section 1, the Jason Fornwald Era has got off to a good start at Albert Lea. Fornwald who replaced Roy Nystrom who retired after 44 years leading the Tigers has led them to the top seed and a nine game unbeaten streak. They will have to get past the second seeded Mankato East/Loyola Cougars and the second seeded Minnesota River Bulldogs.
Section 2 has several teams in the hunt for a state tournament berth. First is the top seeded Orono Spartans, followed by their Wright County Conference rivals, the second seeded Mound-Westonka Whitehawks and the third seeded Delano Tigers. Looking to pull the upset is the fourth seeded Minneapolis Novas and the fifth seeded Providence Academy Lions. What about the Breck Mustangs? Since head coach Les Larson stepped down, the Mustangs have gone from a 22 win season last year to only 7 wins and a number six seed this season.
Down south to Section 3 with the top seeded Luverne Cardinals looking for a return trip to the X after they lost in overtime in last year's quarterfinals to the eventual Class A champion Hermantown Hawks. But look out for the second seeded Litchfield/Dassel Cokato Dragons and the third seeded Marshall Tigers.
Over in Section 4, the top seed is the Mahtomedi Zephyrs who got off to a solid start with an 8-0-1 record before going 10-6 the rest of the season. It should be an outstanding race with the second seeded South St. Paul Packers, the third seeded Simley Spartans, the fourth seeded St. Paul Johnson Governors and the fifth seeded Northfield Raiders. Who will emerge with the championship trophy?
Now to Section 5 with the Monticello Magic the top seed. It's just Monitcello this season as the dropped the Moose nickname as well as the co-op between the communities of Annandale and Maple Lake. The magical mystery tour through the section could be tough for Monticello as a couple of teams are on a roll en route to the first trip to the X. They are the second seeded North Branch Vikings and the third seeded Pine City Dragons. The Dragons are on a 13 game winning streak since they lost to Simley on December 26 in the Schwan Cup quarterfinals. There could also be a possible rematch with the Vikings, who beat them 3-2 in overtime on December 19. Could Pine City be the sleeper team in the section?
Two St. Cloud area teams are the top two seeds in Section 6. The top seeded St. Cloud Cathedral Crusaders look to return down I-94 to St. Paul after they lost to Hermantown in overtime in last year's Class A semifinals. The second seeded Sartell-St. Stephen Sabres have an identical record and lost to the Crusaders 5-1 on December 29. A rematch could be possible if both teams advance to the section final. Also in the hunt is the third seeded Alexandria Cardinals.
Though Bruce Plante retired after leading Hermantown to the Class A championship last season, he left the program in good hands as new head coach Patrick Andrews has led the Hawks past a 1-3 start to the top seed in Section 7. first they have to take care of the second seeded Greenway/Nashwauk Keewatin Raiders. Could the third seeded Virginia/Mountain-Iron Buhl Blue Devils also go for the gold?
And finally in Section 8, there's no dominate favorite as six teams have winning records but only one will make the trip to St. Paul. The top seed and getting a first round bye is the Warroad Warriors. Also with a first round bye is the second seeded East Grand Forks Green Wave. The two quarterfinal games could be interesting as the sixth seeded Detroit Lakes Lakers go for their first trip to state since 1996 against the third seeded Crookston Pirates and the fifth seeded Lake of the Woods Bears head to Thief River Falls to face the Prowlers. If there's no snowstorm March 1, take a drive up to Warroad for the section final. It will answer the question "Who will play for a trip to the state tournament?"
That's a preview of the Class A & AA sections. Expect packed houses on the Road to St. Paul.
Sunday, February 18, 2018
2018 Class AA Boys Hockey Section Preview
While girls hockey takes center stage in downtown St. Paul this week, it's the boys turn to begin the road to the X. Here's a preview of the eight Class AA sections.
In Section 1, the Lakeville North Panthers have the number one seed but look out for the Rochester Century Panthers who have a 7-0 record against section opponents and hope to head up Highway 52 to St. Paul for the first time since 2009. Also in the mix are the third seeded Lakeville South Cougars and the fourth seeded Owatonna Huskies.
A couple of hot teams are the top two seeds in Section 2. They are the top seeded Minnetonka Skippers and the second seeded Holy Family Catholic Fire. Both are riding seven game winning streaks headed into section play. Holy Family has also won 11 of their last 12 games. Could the Skippers return to state after an eight year absence or will the Victoria based Fire remain on fire and clinch their first state tournament berth.
Over in Section 3, the top seeded St. Thomas Academy Cadets look toward returning to the X. But there are a couple of South Suburban Conference teams that could ended the Cadets reign. They are the second seeded Eastview Lightning and the third seeded Rosemount Irish. St. Thomas Academy beat Eastview 5-1 on November 29. Is a rematch possible?
To Section 4 where the top seeded White Bear Lake Bears have won eight straight games. Hill-Murray, enduring their first losing season since 2001 is the number two seed and hopes to return to state. Also in contention is the third seeded Stillwater Ponies and the fourth seeded Tartan Titans. It has the makings of an interesting section.
What an outstanding season for hockey fans in Circle Pines, Centerville, Lexington and Lino Lakes. First the Centennial girls team clinches their first state tournament berth since 2008 and now the boys have the number one seed in Section 5. The second seeded Maple Grove Crimson is the only other winning team in the section and it could set up a rematch with the Cougars, who beat the Crimson 5-1.
Now to Section 6 where the top seeded Edina Hornets could be the heavy favorites to send their fans to the Xcel Energy Center's green seats. The Hornets only two losses this season were to the Minnetonka Skippers. Looking to put a sting in the Hornets quest is the second seeded Cretin-Derham Hall Raiders, the third seeded Wayzata Trojans and the fourth seeded Benilde-St. Margarets Red Knights. The Red Knights host the fifth seeded St. Louis Park Orioles in the quarterfinals.
In Section 7, it looks like the Grand Rapids Thunderhawks state championship reign is coming to an end because they have won only six games this season and will face the top seeded Duluth East Greyhounds in the quarterfinals. The Greyhounds will have to get past the second seeded Andover Huskies, the third seeded Elk River/Zimmerman Elks and the fourth seeded Cloquest-Esko-Carlton Lumberjacks. Who will come out of this section? Head up to Amsoil Arena in Duluth to see exciting hockey among the northern schools.
The Section 8 pairings have not yet been posted but the Moorhead Spuds have won eight of their last nine games and could bee a candidate for the section's top seed. But before Spuds fans can make their St. Paul hotel reservations, they have to contend with a red host St. Michael-Albertville Knights who have not lost a game since losing 3-1 to the Roseau Rams on January 26. They were also shut out by the Spuds 5-0 on January 5. The Brainerd Warriors, St. Cloud and the Roseau Rams could play the role of spoiler.
Next up, the eight Class A sections.
In Section 1, the Lakeville North Panthers have the number one seed but look out for the Rochester Century Panthers who have a 7-0 record against section opponents and hope to head up Highway 52 to St. Paul for the first time since 2009. Also in the mix are the third seeded Lakeville South Cougars and the fourth seeded Owatonna Huskies.
A couple of hot teams are the top two seeds in Section 2. They are the top seeded Minnetonka Skippers and the second seeded Holy Family Catholic Fire. Both are riding seven game winning streaks headed into section play. Holy Family has also won 11 of their last 12 games. Could the Skippers return to state after an eight year absence or will the Victoria based Fire remain on fire and clinch their first state tournament berth.
Over in Section 3, the top seeded St. Thomas Academy Cadets look toward returning to the X. But there are a couple of South Suburban Conference teams that could ended the Cadets reign. They are the second seeded Eastview Lightning and the third seeded Rosemount Irish. St. Thomas Academy beat Eastview 5-1 on November 29. Is a rematch possible?
To Section 4 where the top seeded White Bear Lake Bears have won eight straight games. Hill-Murray, enduring their first losing season since 2001 is the number two seed and hopes to return to state. Also in contention is the third seeded Stillwater Ponies and the fourth seeded Tartan Titans. It has the makings of an interesting section.
What an outstanding season for hockey fans in Circle Pines, Centerville, Lexington and Lino Lakes. First the Centennial girls team clinches their first state tournament berth since 2008 and now the boys have the number one seed in Section 5. The second seeded Maple Grove Crimson is the only other winning team in the section and it could set up a rematch with the Cougars, who beat the Crimson 5-1.
Now to Section 6 where the top seeded Edina Hornets could be the heavy favorites to send their fans to the Xcel Energy Center's green seats. The Hornets only two losses this season were to the Minnetonka Skippers. Looking to put a sting in the Hornets quest is the second seeded Cretin-Derham Hall Raiders, the third seeded Wayzata Trojans and the fourth seeded Benilde-St. Margarets Red Knights. The Red Knights host the fifth seeded St. Louis Park Orioles in the quarterfinals.
In Section 7, it looks like the Grand Rapids Thunderhawks state championship reign is coming to an end because they have won only six games this season and will face the top seeded Duluth East Greyhounds in the quarterfinals. The Greyhounds will have to get past the second seeded Andover Huskies, the third seeded Elk River/Zimmerman Elks and the fourth seeded Cloquest-Esko-Carlton Lumberjacks. Who will come out of this section? Head up to Amsoil Arena in Duluth to see exciting hockey among the northern schools.
The Section 8 pairings have not yet been posted but the Moorhead Spuds have won eight of their last nine games and could bee a candidate for the section's top seed. But before Spuds fans can make their St. Paul hotel reservations, they have to contend with a red host St. Michael-Albertville Knights who have not lost a game since losing 3-1 to the Roseau Rams on January 26. They were also shut out by the Spuds 5-0 on January 5. The Brainerd Warriors, St. Cloud and the Roseau Rams could play the role of spoiler.
Next up, the eight Class A sections.
Saturday, February 17, 2018
2018 Class AA State Girls Hockey Tournament Preview
2018 CLASS AA STATE GIRLS HOCKEY QUARTERFINAL SCHEDULE
GAMES PLAYED THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22 AT XCEL ENERGY CENTER, ST. PAUL
11:00: Lakeville South vs. Centennial (Seed 2)
1:00: Eagan vs. Hill-Murray (Seed 3)
6:00: Brainerd/Little Falls vs. Edina (Seed 1)
8:00: Eden Prairie (Seed 5) vs. Andover (Seed 4)
Examining the field: The Lakeville South Cougars are on a seven game winning streak that includes a 6-5 win over the Farmington Tigers in the Section 1 final. It was their second win in three games over their South Suburban Conference rivals and they have a very tough task ahead in the second seeded Centennial Cougars. The Circle Pines school thrived in the tough Northwest Suburban Conference and lost two of their three games to the Blake Bears. The Cougars are led by the duo of Gabby Hughes and Anneke Linser who will be playing next season at Minnesota-Duluth. It's been 10 years since Centennial has been to St. Paul and fans in the communities of Circle Pines, Lexington, Lino Lakes and Centerville could have something to celebrate if they bring back a trophy.
Ending the afternoon sessions is the Eagan Wildcats and the third seeded Hill-Murray Pioneers. The Wildcats are in their ninth state tournament and on a quest for their first trip to the finals since 1997. However, they have to face the Pioneers, who have won 13 of their last 14 games, including a 2-1 win over Centennial on January 6. Head coach Bill Schafhauser has had outstanding teams this decade and this year's team is likely to set up a rematch with the Cougars.
In the evening session, Brainerd/Little Falls will be heading down Highway 10 for their first trip to the X. In one of the best section finals this season, the Flying Warriors took home the Section 8 trophy with a triple overtime win over the Roseau Rams. Two of their five losses have been to Roseau and one was to the defending Class AA champion Hornets on December 27 4-1. Edina earned their title defense with a victory over the Blake Bears in the Section 6 final. The Champion this decade has been dominated by the Lake Conference with the Minnetonka Skippers winning three consecutive titles and Eden Prairie winning in 2016. Can Edina clinch a Lake conference threepeat?
Wrapping the quarterfinals is the fifth seeded Eden Prairie Eagles and the fourth seeded Andover Huskies. The Eagles earned their third straight trip to St. paul with a win over the Shakopee Sabers in the Section 2 final. As for the Huskies, they are the second Northwest Suburban Conference team in the field and they were swept by Centennial in the season series, including a 4-3 overtime loss on January 30. Eden Prairie regained its momentum after losing their final three regular season games. Can it continue against an Andover team that's in their first tournament since 2015?
That's a look at the quarterfinal pairings. There's plenty of exciting action in St. Paul that starts February 21.
GAMES PLAYED THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22 AT XCEL ENERGY CENTER, ST. PAUL
11:00: Lakeville South vs. Centennial (Seed 2)
1:00: Eagan vs. Hill-Murray (Seed 3)
6:00: Brainerd/Little Falls vs. Edina (Seed 1)
8:00: Eden Prairie (Seed 5) vs. Andover (Seed 4)
Examining the field: The Lakeville South Cougars are on a seven game winning streak that includes a 6-5 win over the Farmington Tigers in the Section 1 final. It was their second win in three games over their South Suburban Conference rivals and they have a very tough task ahead in the second seeded Centennial Cougars. The Circle Pines school thrived in the tough Northwest Suburban Conference and lost two of their three games to the Blake Bears. The Cougars are led by the duo of Gabby Hughes and Anneke Linser who will be playing next season at Minnesota-Duluth. It's been 10 years since Centennial has been to St. Paul and fans in the communities of Circle Pines, Lexington, Lino Lakes and Centerville could have something to celebrate if they bring back a trophy.
Ending the afternoon sessions is the Eagan Wildcats and the third seeded Hill-Murray Pioneers. The Wildcats are in their ninth state tournament and on a quest for their first trip to the finals since 1997. However, they have to face the Pioneers, who have won 13 of their last 14 games, including a 2-1 win over Centennial on January 6. Head coach Bill Schafhauser has had outstanding teams this decade and this year's team is likely to set up a rematch with the Cougars.
In the evening session, Brainerd/Little Falls will be heading down Highway 10 for their first trip to the X. In one of the best section finals this season, the Flying Warriors took home the Section 8 trophy with a triple overtime win over the Roseau Rams. Two of their five losses have been to Roseau and one was to the defending Class AA champion Hornets on December 27 4-1. Edina earned their title defense with a victory over the Blake Bears in the Section 6 final. The Champion this decade has been dominated by the Lake Conference with the Minnetonka Skippers winning three consecutive titles and Eden Prairie winning in 2016. Can Edina clinch a Lake conference threepeat?
Wrapping the quarterfinals is the fifth seeded Eden Prairie Eagles and the fourth seeded Andover Huskies. The Eagles earned their third straight trip to St. paul with a win over the Shakopee Sabers in the Section 2 final. As for the Huskies, they are the second Northwest Suburban Conference team in the field and they were swept by Centennial in the season series, including a 4-3 overtime loss on January 30. Eden Prairie regained its momentum after losing their final three regular season games. Can it continue against an Andover team that's in their first tournament since 2015?
That's a look at the quarterfinal pairings. There's plenty of exciting action in St. Paul that starts February 21.
2014 Class A State Girls Hockey Tournament Preview
2018 STATE CLASS A GIRLS QUARTERFINAL SCHEDULE
GAMES PLAYED WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21 AT XCEL ENERGY CENTER, ST. PAUL
11:00: Marshall vs. Breck (Seed 2)
1:00: Proctor/Hermantown vs. Red Wing (Seed 3)
6:00: New Ulm vs. Warroad (Seed 1)
8:00: St. Paul United (Seed 5) vs. Alexandria (Seed 4)
Examining the Field: The 2018 edition of the State Girls Hockey Tournament gets underway with Class A quarterfinal play and opening up the festivities is the Marshall Tigers in their third trip to St. Paul and the second seeded Breck Mustangs. The Tigers took home the Section 3 title trophy with a 2-1 overtime win over the Mankato West Scarlets. As for the Mustangs, who are back in the tournament for the first time since they beat South St. Paul for the Class A championship in 2012, they also won via way of overtime with a 3-2 victory over the Orono Spartans. The Mustangs have played a brutal nonconference schedule that included 10 games against state tournament teams and have gone 6-4. They have overcome a 1-5 start to go 15-5-1. They have the talent that could put them in their first Class A final in six years.
Wrapping up the afternoon session is the Proctor/Hermantown Mirage in their fourth tournament appearance and the Red Wing Wingers who make their seventh trip up Highway 61 to the X. The Mirage have been on a three game winning streak since ending their regular season with a loss to the South St. Paul Packers and beat Hibbing/Chisholm to win the Section 7 trophy. It will be a rematch of a December 9 game against the Wingers that Red Wing won 5-2. The Wingers have not lost a game since they fell to the Hutchinson Tigers in the Farmington tournament December 29. This is a team that can bunch goals together. In their last four games, Red Wing has outscored their opponents 32-4. Keep an eye on Red Wing they could go for the gold after four third place finishes.
Now to the evening session as the New Ulm Tigers battle the top seeded Warroad Warriors. Poor New Ulm. They are in their eighth state tournament and they have not advanced to the semifinals. Their record in tournament play is 2-14 and it doesn't get easier against a Warroad team that has won 10 straight games and looking for its first Class A title since 2011. They have not lost a game since Roseau beat them 3-1 on January 4. They have also played two games against North Dakota teams and have outscored them 26-0, including a 20-0 rout in their own tournament December 27. Warroad is one of the favorites to win the Class A title.
Concluding the Wednesday quarterfinals is fifth seeded St. Paul United and the fourth seeded Alexandria Cardinals. St. Paul United, comprised of students from St. Paul Academy and Visitation is in their third straight trip to state. The last two seasons, they finished second, losing to the Blake Bears who moved up to Class AA. They beat the South St. Paul Packers 2-1 in overtime to return to the X. They will face the Cardinals who are making their 13th trip down I-94 and in the hunt for their first Class A title since 2008. The Cardinals have been on a 12-3 run since they lost to Brainerd/Little Falls on December 21 They are 3-2 against teams from the Twin Cities, losing to Maple Grove and Breck. Can SPU return to the semifinals or will Alexandria end a possible return to a third consecutive Class A final?
Next up, the Class AA preview.
GAMES PLAYED WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21 AT XCEL ENERGY CENTER, ST. PAUL
11:00: Marshall vs. Breck (Seed 2)
1:00: Proctor/Hermantown vs. Red Wing (Seed 3)
6:00: New Ulm vs. Warroad (Seed 1)
8:00: St. Paul United (Seed 5) vs. Alexandria (Seed 4)
Examining the Field: The 2018 edition of the State Girls Hockey Tournament gets underway with Class A quarterfinal play and opening up the festivities is the Marshall Tigers in their third trip to St. Paul and the second seeded Breck Mustangs. The Tigers took home the Section 3 title trophy with a 2-1 overtime win over the Mankato West Scarlets. As for the Mustangs, who are back in the tournament for the first time since they beat South St. Paul for the Class A championship in 2012, they also won via way of overtime with a 3-2 victory over the Orono Spartans. The Mustangs have played a brutal nonconference schedule that included 10 games against state tournament teams and have gone 6-4. They have overcome a 1-5 start to go 15-5-1. They have the talent that could put them in their first Class A final in six years.
Wrapping up the afternoon session is the Proctor/Hermantown Mirage in their fourth tournament appearance and the Red Wing Wingers who make their seventh trip up Highway 61 to the X. The Mirage have been on a three game winning streak since ending their regular season with a loss to the South St. Paul Packers and beat Hibbing/Chisholm to win the Section 7 trophy. It will be a rematch of a December 9 game against the Wingers that Red Wing won 5-2. The Wingers have not lost a game since they fell to the Hutchinson Tigers in the Farmington tournament December 29. This is a team that can bunch goals together. In their last four games, Red Wing has outscored their opponents 32-4. Keep an eye on Red Wing they could go for the gold after four third place finishes.
Now to the evening session as the New Ulm Tigers battle the top seeded Warroad Warriors. Poor New Ulm. They are in their eighth state tournament and they have not advanced to the semifinals. Their record in tournament play is 2-14 and it doesn't get easier against a Warroad team that has won 10 straight games and looking for its first Class A title since 2011. They have not lost a game since Roseau beat them 3-1 on January 4. They have also played two games against North Dakota teams and have outscored them 26-0, including a 20-0 rout in their own tournament December 27. Warroad is one of the favorites to win the Class A title.
Concluding the Wednesday quarterfinals is fifth seeded St. Paul United and the fourth seeded Alexandria Cardinals. St. Paul United, comprised of students from St. Paul Academy and Visitation is in their third straight trip to state. The last two seasons, they finished second, losing to the Blake Bears who moved up to Class AA. They beat the South St. Paul Packers 2-1 in overtime to return to the X. They will face the Cardinals who are making their 13th trip down I-94 and in the hunt for their first Class A title since 2008. The Cardinals have been on a 12-3 run since they lost to Brainerd/Little Falls on December 21 They are 3-2 against teams from the Twin Cities, losing to Maple Grove and Breck. Can SPU return to the semifinals or will Alexandria end a possible return to a third consecutive Class A final?
Next up, the Class AA preview.
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Breck Mustangs Win Section 5A Championship
Quality was better than quantity for Allie Qualley as she scored the game winning goal 1:50 in overtime to lead the Breck Mustangs to a 3-2 win over the Orono Spartans in the Section 5A Girls Hockey Championship game at the Parade Ice Garden in Minneapolis.
It was the first section title for the Golden Valley based school since 2012 when they won the Class A title 3-2 in double overtime over the South St. Paul Packers.
Neither team would score in the first period though the puck entered the net after the buzzer sounded so the goal didn't count.
The Mustangs broke the scoreless deadlock in the second period when Beniek rebounded Katherine Solohub's shot and sent it to the net.
Breck wound go up by two in the second period as Solohub's shot was saved by Orono goalie Anna Lisle. But Sadie Lindsay found an opening on the right side of Lisle and she placed it in the net. Was a two goal lead safe for the top seeded Mustangs? Not for a trip to St. Paul on this windy Thursday night. The Spartans would cut the lead in half on a flurry of shots that resulted in a goal for Sydney DeCubellis. Following a time out, Orono co-head coaches Keith Radloff and Steve Perisian pulled Lisle for a sixth attacker and it would pay off for Iyla Ryskamp as she scored on a rebound with :37.5 in regulation time.
It was on to overtime and ended rather quickly for the Mustangs on Allie Qualley's shot from the left side of Lisle that headed into the net and clinched a trip to the X for Breck.
The Mustangs out shot the Spartans 32-22.
Breck improves their record to 16-11-1 and will play in the state Class A quarterfinals on Wednesday, February 21 at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul. Orono concluded their season with a record of 9-15-3.
Sophomore Olivia Mobley, formerly of Hopkins/Park, committed to Quinnipiac University.
It was the first section title for the Golden Valley based school since 2012 when they won the Class A title 3-2 in double overtime over the South St. Paul Packers.
Neither team would score in the first period though the puck entered the net after the buzzer sounded so the goal didn't count.
The Mustangs broke the scoreless deadlock in the second period when Beniek rebounded Katherine Solohub's shot and sent it to the net.
Breck wound go up by two in the second period as Solohub's shot was saved by Orono goalie Anna Lisle. But Sadie Lindsay found an opening on the right side of Lisle and she placed it in the net. Was a two goal lead safe for the top seeded Mustangs? Not for a trip to St. Paul on this windy Thursday night. The Spartans would cut the lead in half on a flurry of shots that resulted in a goal for Sydney DeCubellis. Following a time out, Orono co-head coaches Keith Radloff and Steve Perisian pulled Lisle for a sixth attacker and it would pay off for Iyla Ryskamp as she scored on a rebound with :37.5 in regulation time.
It was on to overtime and ended rather quickly for the Mustangs on Allie Qualley's shot from the left side of Lisle that headed into the net and clinched a trip to the X for Breck.
The Mustangs out shot the Spartans 32-22.
Breck improves their record to 16-11-1 and will play in the state Class A quarterfinals on Wednesday, February 21 at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul. Orono concluded their season with a record of 9-15-3.
Sophomore Olivia Mobley, formerly of Hopkins/Park, committed to Quinnipiac University.
Wednesday, February 14, 2018
Former Wayzata and Carleton Coach Thurnblad Passes Away
Athlete. Coach. Administrator. Three words that best describe Jack Thurnblad and the contributions he made to the Carleton College athletic program.
On. February 12, Thurnblad passed away at the age of 96.
A 1949 Carleton graduate, Thurnblad was a two sport athlete, excelling in basketball and basketball. He was invited to spring training by the Philadelphia Phillies but he didn't get a chance to play in Shibe Park. Instead, Thurnblad played shortstop for Litchfield in the Southern Minnie League that won the state Class AA title in 1952. He also started his coaching career in Hastings before moving to Wayzata in 1954. Five years later in 1959, Thurnblad led the Trojans to the state boys basketball championship as they beat Carlton 55-41 at Williams Arena.
In 1960, Thurnblad returned to his alma mater and became the head men's basketball coach. He also headed the men's golf program and in 1970, he became the men's athletic director. Under his leadership, he guided Carleton to the 1965-66 Midwest Conference title. He also led the golf team to seven conference championships, the first came in 1961. Thurnblad was also instrumental in changing Carleton's nickname from the Carls to the Knights and leaving the Midwest Conference in 1983 after a 58 year run to rejoin the MIAC, where they were a member from 1920 to 1925.
In 1984, Thurnblad stepped down as head men's basketball coach, turning over the coaching reins to Guy Kalland, who is still heading the Maize & Blue 34 years later. He would also stay on as golf coach and athletic director until he retired in 1989.
Thurnblad's legacy lives on at the Northfield liberal arts college. The West Gym's basketball court was named for Thurnblad and a sign under the scoreboard reads "In honor of Coach Jack and Jinny Thurnblad." Jinny was Thurnblad's wife of 61 years who passed away in 2009.
A fitting tribute to a man who served Carleton, first as a student-athlete then a coach and athletic director. Thurnblad was a key to the development and success of the school's athletic program.
HSGN NOTE: A number of sources were used to research this entry, including the Carleton athletic website.
On. February 12, Thurnblad passed away at the age of 96.
A 1949 Carleton graduate, Thurnblad was a two sport athlete, excelling in basketball and basketball. He was invited to spring training by the Philadelphia Phillies but he didn't get a chance to play in Shibe Park. Instead, Thurnblad played shortstop for Litchfield in the Southern Minnie League that won the state Class AA title in 1952. He also started his coaching career in Hastings before moving to Wayzata in 1954. Five years later in 1959, Thurnblad led the Trojans to the state boys basketball championship as they beat Carlton 55-41 at Williams Arena.
In 1960, Thurnblad returned to his alma mater and became the head men's basketball coach. He also headed the men's golf program and in 1970, he became the men's athletic director. Under his leadership, he guided Carleton to the 1965-66 Midwest Conference title. He also led the golf team to seven conference championships, the first came in 1961. Thurnblad was also instrumental in changing Carleton's nickname from the Carls to the Knights and leaving the Midwest Conference in 1983 after a 58 year run to rejoin the MIAC, where they were a member from 1920 to 1925.
In 1984, Thurnblad stepped down as head men's basketball coach, turning over the coaching reins to Guy Kalland, who is still heading the Maize & Blue 34 years later. He would also stay on as golf coach and athletic director until he retired in 1989.
Thurnblad's legacy lives on at the Northfield liberal arts college. The West Gym's basketball court was named for Thurnblad and a sign under the scoreboard reads "In honor of Coach Jack and Jinny Thurnblad." Jinny was Thurnblad's wife of 61 years who passed away in 2009.
A fitting tribute to a man who served Carleton, first as a student-athlete then a coach and athletic director. Thurnblad was a key to the development and success of the school's athletic program.
HSGN NOTE: A number of sources were used to research this entry, including the Carleton athletic website.
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