Mn State High School Hockey Tournament
High school hockey is a big deal in Minnesota. It is a sport that is deeply ingrained in the state's culture, and one that is fiercely contested at the high school level. The MN State High School Hockey Tournament is the most prestigious high school hockey tournament in the state, and it is one that brings together the best high school hockey teams from all over Minnesota. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the tournament, exploring its history, format, and some of the top teams and players to watch.
History of the MN State High School Hockey Tournament
The MN State High School Hockey Tournament has a rich history that dates back to 1945. That year, the tournament was held at the St. Paul Auditorium, and it featured just four teams. Over the years, the tournament has grown in size and popularity, and it now features 16 teams split into two divisions--AA and A.
The tournament has been held at a number of different venues over the years, but its current home is the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul. The arena, which is home to the NHL's Minnesota Wild, is the perfect venue for the tournament, as it can accommodate large crowds and provides a great atmosphere for high school hockey.
Format of the MN State High School Hockey Tournament
The MN State High School Hockey Tournament features 16 teams split into two divisions--AA and A. The top eight teams in each division qualify for the tournament, which is a single-elimination format. The teams are seeded based on their regular season records, with the top seeds facing the bottom seeds in the first round.
The tournament is held over four days, with the quarterfinals taking place on Wednesday, the semifinals on Friday, and the championship games on Saturday. There are four games held each day, and each game features two 17-minute periods and one 18-minute period.
Top Teams to Watch in the MN State High School Hockey Tournament
There are always a number of top teams to watch in the MN State High School Hockey Tournament, and this year is no exception. Here are some of the top teams to watch in each division:
AA Division
1. Eden Prairie High School: The Eagles are the defending champions and are looking to repeat this year. They are led by senior forward Casey Mittelstadt, who is one of the top high school players in the country.
2. Grand Rapids High School: The Thunderhawks are always a threat in the AA division, and this year is no exception. They are led by senior forward Micah Miller, who is one of the top goal scorers in the state.
3. Edina High School: The Hornets are a perennial contender in the AA division, and this year is no exception. They are led by senior defenseman Ben Brinkman, who is one of the top high school defensemen in the country.
A Division
1. Hermantown High School: The Hawks are the defending champions and are looking to repeat this year. They are led by senior forward Blake Biondi, who is one of the top high school players in the state.
2. Warroad High School: The Warriors are a perennial contender in the A division, and this year is no exception. They are led by junior forward Grant Slukynsky, who is one of the top goal scorers in the state.
3. St. Cloud Cathedral High School: The Crusaders are a rising power in the A division, and they are looking to make a statement this year. They are led by senior defenseman Jack Smith, who is one of the top high school defensemen in the state.
Top Players to Watch in the MN State High School Hockey Tournament
There are always a number of top players to watch in the MN State High School Hockey Tournament, and this year is no exception. Here are some of the top players to watch in each division:
AA Division
1. Casey Mittelstadt, Eden Prairie High School: Mittelstadt is one of the top high school players in the country and is a dynamic forward who can score goals and set up his teammates.
2. Micah Miller, Grand Rapids High School: Miller is one of the top goal scorers in the state and is a threat to score every time he touches the puck.
3. Ben Brinkman, Edina High School: Brinkman is one of the top high school defensemen in the country and is a big, physical player who is tough to play against.
A Division
1. Blake Biondi, Hermantown High School: Biondi is one of the top high school players in the state and is a dynamic forward who can score goals and set up his teammates.
2. Grant Slukynsky, Warroad High School: Slukynsky is one of the top goal scorers in the state and is a threat to score every time he touches the puck.
3. Jack Smith, St. Cloud Cathedral High School: Smith is one of the top high school defensemen in the state and is a big, physical player who is tough to play against.
How to Watch the MN State High School Hockey Tournament
The MN State High School Hockey Tournament is broadcast on television and online. The games are broadcast on the Fox Sports North network, and they can be streamed live on the Fox Sports app. In addition, the championship games are also broadcast on the Minnesota State High School League website.
Conclusion
The MN State High School Hockey Tournament is one of the most exciting events in Minnesota sports. It brings together the best high school hockey teams in the state and provides a stage for some of the top high school players to showcase their talents. Whether you are a diehard hockey fan or just a casual observer, the MN State High School Hockey Tournament is a must-see event.