The excitement at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul reached a peak on Saturday, March 8, 2025, when the Moorhead Spuds achieved a thrilling victory over the Stillwater Ponies, winning their first-ever Minnesota Class 2A boys hockey championship with a final score of 7-6. Fans erupted in cheers as the Spuds, who dedicated their season to the memory of their beloved team manager, Ethan Monshaugen, celebrated this historical win that marked the end of a long wait for the championship title.
A Memorable Game
Right from the start, the game was full of action and excitement. Moorhead opened the scoring with an impressive display of skill and teamwork. The highlight of the first period was Mason Kraft’s spectacular performance, where he scored four goals, putting his team ahead 5-1 by the end of the period. Kraft’s first-period feats not only surged the celebration but also tied a state tournament record, showcasing his remarkable talent and determination to drive the team towards victory.
Early Lead by the Spuds
In the opening minutes of the game, the atmosphere was electric as Moorhead quickly scored three goals in just under three minutes. Brooks Cullen joined Kraft in the scoring frenzy with an early goal, setting the tone for the match. The Stillwater Ponies managed to sneak in a goal from Luca Jarvis towards the end of the first period, but Moorhead’s lead was firmly established. Going into the second period, the Spuds held a solid 5-1 advantage, raising hopes among their supporters.
A Heart-Pounding Finish
As the game progressed into the second period, Moorhead continued to assert their dominance. Brandon Mickelson scored another goal for the Spuds, bringing the score to 6-3 as they entered the third period. However, the drama was far from over. The Stillwater Ponies, determined to turn the tide, mounted a fierce comeback, narrowing the gap to 7-6. This high-intensity finish had fans on the edge of their seats as Stillwater pushed desperately for an equalizer in the closing minutes.
Celebrating a Historic Moment
Moorhead’s triumph did not just mark their first state championship; it showcased their resilience both as individuals and as a team. Coach Jon Ammerman praised the players for their focus and ability to remain grounded during such a crucial game. “This group of kids is different. They’ve risen to every challenge this season, and today they had the opportunity to create history,” he remarked after the game, highlighting the mental toughness they displayed throughout the contest. This historic win is destined to be carved into the hearts of all who support the Spuds.
All-Tournament Team Honors
In addition to the championship victory, several Moorhead players earned recognition for their outstanding performances throughout the tournament. Mason Kraft, Brooks Cullen, Zac Zimmerman, Brandon Mickelson, Simonich, and Stenehjem were all awarded spots on the all-tournament team as a testimony to their hard work and dedication on the ice.
Game Summary
| Period | Moorhead Goals | Stillwater Goals |
|---|---|---|
| First Period | 5 | 1 |
| Second Period | 1 | 2 |
| Third Period | 1 | 3 |
| Final | 7 | 6 |
As the Spuds bask in the glory of their momentous victory, fans and players alike will cherish this unforgettable championship win for years to come. The journey was long, but with determination, teamwork, and a few spectacular goals, Moorhead has finally tasted the sweetness of victory.
