After years of battling in the always-loaded Section 6AA, St. Louis Park enters a new era as they shift into the Class A ranks for the 2025–26 season. This move will put the Orioles in the heart of Section 2A, and although it marks a classification change, the program’s blend of top-end skill and grit remains the same.
The big question? How far can this talented group go in the small school playoffs.
Marty Hirte (#21, F, Sr.)
A dynamic offensive presence, Hirte finished with 39 points (15G–24A) and has the speed and hockey sense to drive play in any matchup.
Jack Betzer (#10, D, Sr.)
The puck-moving defenseman led all blueliners with 35 points (7G–28A) and quarterbacked the power play. His return provides instant stability to the D-core.
Owen Anklam (#28, D, Sr.)
One of the team’s most underrated players, Anklam quietly added 20 assists while eating up big minutes on the back end.
Leo Schmoll (#34, D, Jr.)
A strong two-way defenseman who chipped in 20 points, Schmoll brings a physical element and will be a cornerstone on the blue line for the next two seasons.
Liam McCoy (#25, F, Jr.) and Ollie Culp (#8, F, Sr.) will help round out the forward core, offering depth scoring and experience.
The Orioles graduate several key pieces, including:
Trey Janssen (#11) – A top-line force who racked up 45 points (21G–24A) and led the team in goals.
Brennan Hogan (#27) – A skilled playmaker with 40 points, including a team-high 27 assists.
Tyler Hess (#16) and Ryan Moran (#22) – Combined for 51 points and played heavy offensive minutes.
Goaltender Maksym Cherevatenko (#35) – Started 24 games and posted a .895 SV%. He will be a tough loss between the pipes.
With Cherevatenko graduated, the net likely belongs to Parker Jirik (#30, Jr.), who impressed in limited action with a .932 SV% and 1.29 GAA over five games. If he can replicate those numbers in a full-time role, the Orioles will be in excellent shape defensively.
St. Louis Park’s transition to Section 2A is one of the most intriguing developments in Class A hockey this season. Despite some key departures, the returning nucleus—particularly on defense—gives them a strong foundation to compete right away.
Add in a breakout season from Hirte and a smooth transition in goal from Jirik, and the Orioles could make serious noise in their new section. While the incoming Bantam class remains unknown, the structure and talent already in place suggest this program won’t need a long adjustment period in Class A.
Check out the history of St. Louis Park Boys Hockey Here:
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