Minnesota High School Hockey Tournament: A Thrilling Conclusion
In an electrifying culmination of the 2022-2023 Minnesota high school hockey season, the final day of the state tournament provided fans with a remarkable display of talent, determination, and the sheer will to win. With battles in both Class A and Class AA, the Xcel Energy Center and Mariucci Arena bore witness to the heart-pounding action.
Class A:
Third Place Match – Orono vs. Hermantown (0-2): In the Class A third-place match, Orono and Hermantown faced off, vying for the honor of finishing the season on the podium. Hermantown asserted their dominance with a 2-0 victory. Their solid defense and precise offensive plays earned them the bronze medal, capping off a season filled with remarkable achievements.
Consolation Final – Alexandria vs. St. Cloud Cathedral (1-4): The Mariucci Arena hosted the Class A consolation final, where Alexandria took on St. Cloud Cathedral. St. Cloud Cathedral showcased their skills and determination, claiming a 4-1 victory. It was a fitting way to end the season on a high note and secure the consolation title.
Championship Match – Mahtomedi vs. Warroad (6-5 OT): The Class A championship match at the Xcel Energy Center was nothing short of an epic showdown. Mahtomedi and Warroad went head to head in a game that will be remembered for years to come. After an intense battle, Mahtomedi emerged as the champions, winning 6-5 in overtime. The roaring crowd and the jubilant celebrations on the ice painted a picture of an unforgettable moment in high school hockey history.
Class AA:
Consolation Final – Hill-Murray vs. Maple Grove (5-3): In the Class AA consolation final, Hill-Murray and Maple Grove put on a fierce display of skill and determination. Hill-Murray managed to secure a 5-3 victory, taking home the consolation title and closing out their season with pride.
Third Place Match – Cretin-Derham Hall vs. Andover (3-5): The battle for third place in Class AA was a contest of wills as Cretin-Derham Hall and Andover squared off at the Xcel Energy Center. After a hard-fought battle, Andover emerged victorious with a 5-3 win, earning the bronze medal and bringing their season to a satisfying conclusion.
Championship Match – Edina vs. Minnetonka (1-2): The pinnacle of the state tournament, the Class AA championship match at the Xcel Energy Center, was a fitting grand finale. Edina and Minnetonka, two hockey powerhouses, gave it their all in a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats. In the end, Minnetonka emerged as the champions, edging out Edina with a final score of 2-1. The game was a testament to the competitive spirit and skill that high school hockey represents, and Minnetonka claimed the coveted championship.
The final day of the Minnesota high school hockey tournament brought the season to a thrilling conclusion, with outstanding performances, dramatic victories, and unforgettable moments. Players, coaches, and fans left the arenas with a deep appreciation for the heart and soul of high school hockey and the memories created in the pursuit of glory.
