In a heart-stopping matchup that will be remembered for years to come, the Moorhead Spuds triumphed over the Stillwater Ponies with a thrilling score of 7-6, clinching their first-ever Minnesota Class 2A state boys hockey championship on March 8, 2025, at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul. This monumental victory not only ends a long quest for a championship title but also fulfills a dream for both the team and its supporters after previously tasting defeat in eight runner-up finishes.
A Fast-Paced Start
The game kicked off with a blast as Mason Kraft showcased incredible talent, scoring four goals in just the first period. With the Spuds netting three goals within the first three minutes of the match, the crowd erupted in cheers. Brooks Cullen also got in on the action, contributing a goal to give Moorhead a commanding 5-1 lead by the end of the first period. This dazzling performance set the tone for an electric game.
Intense Competition
Even as Moorhead took an early lead, the energy of the game was palpable, with the Stillwater Ponies not backing down. Luca Jarvis managed to score for Stillwater late in the first period, giving them a spark of hope. Going into the second period, the score stood at 5-1, but the Ponies were determined to fight back.
- Moorhead led 5-1 after the first period.
- Brandon Mickelson scored the only goal in the second period for Moorhead, extending their lead to 6-3.
- Zac Zimmerman added a power-play goal in the third period, bringing the score to 7-3.
A Nail-Biting Finish
The third period saw Stillwater launching a fierce comeback. As they rallied late in the game, they managed to cut Moorhead’s lead to just one goal. Despite the mounting pressure, the Spuds’ defense held firm, showcasing grit and determination to secure their historic win. The final score concluded the game at 7-6, and cheers erupted as the Moorhead bench celebrated their victory.
Honoring a Beloved Manager
This championship season, filled with hard work and teamwork, was deeply dedicated to the memory of Ethan Monshaugen, the team’s manager, who had sadly passed away. His spirit was felt throughout the season, rallying the boys to play with heart and dedication.
Looking Ahead
The successful result was not just a moment of triumph for Moorhead but also a defining moment for the players. Kraft, Cullen, Zimmerman, Mickelson, Simonich, and Stenehjem received all-tournament honors, recognizing their exceptional performance throughout the tournament. The Moorhead Spuds finished the season with an impressive record of 28 wins, 2 losses, and 1 tie, marking a year that fans and players alike will remember fondly.
A Glance at the Game Statistics
| Team | Score | 1st Period | 2nd Period | 3rd Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moorhead Spuds | 7 | 5 | 1 | 1 |
| Stillwater Ponies | 6 | 1 | 2 | 3 |
This win is a testament to the hard work and resilience of the Moorhead Spuds, marking a new chapter in their hockey history. With their eyes set on potential future championships, the Spuds are ready to build on this incredible achievement as they move forward together.
