Alexandria, MN (Oct. 26, 2022)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
The Northstar Knights are pleased to announce that Alumni, Anthony Menghini, has committed to the University of Minnesota Duluth. The Brainerd, MN native played in the Knights program from 2019-2021. In 87 games played, Menghini racked up 113 points (42G, 71A). In his first season with the Knights, Menghini led the team in scoring with 69 points (28G, 41A) while on a loaded team with division 1 commits in Ben Strinden (University of North Dakota, Nashville Predators), Talon Sigurdson (Arizona State University), Jakob Stender (Minnesota State University) and Jacob Napier (Western Michigan University). That season he also earned a nomination to play in the NAPHL All-Star game. “I had some ups and downs over the last few years,” said Menghini. “After completing my sophomore year at Brainerd High School, I transferred to Northstar Christian Academy to focus on both my faith and hockey. My junior year was a fantastic experience, but ended early due to COVID.” Menghini’s 2020-21 season with the Knight’s was unfortunately limited to 30 games due to various injuries. “My senior year started out strong, but I had two significant ankle injuries and sat out for several months, followed by season ending surgery which was disappointing.” Although his games were limited, Menghini was still very productive as he put up 44 points (14G, 30A) which tied him for 2nd on the Knights in points-per-game with 1.47. His contributions also helped the Knights to their first NAPHL championship in program history. “I was so thankful to be at Northstar as I had never missed hockey for an injury before, and the support I received during that challenging time from the staff and my teammates was such a blessing.”
Following his time at Northstar, Menghini moved on to play juniors with the Des Moines Buccaneers in the USHL where he put up 3 points in 16 games (2G, 1A). “I started last season at Des Moines, but was released after three months, and ended the season in the NAHL with the Austin Bruins.” During his time with the Bruins, Menghini reunited with former Knights teammate, Jens Richards, where he put up 31 points (20G, 11A) in 37 games. “Last year tested my confidence, and I feel that without my faith, I would have really struggled with everything,” said Menghini on the trials of the season. But thanks to his resiliency, scouts and coaches in the USHL took notice and he was rewarded by being drafted by the Fargo Force 188th overall in Phase 2 of the USHL draft. “Last spring I was drafted by the Fargo Force and I spent the summer training, both at home and at Northstar which prepared me for Main Camp and where I made the roster.” Since making the Force out of training camp, Menghini has been off to a hot start, as he is tied for 2nd on the team with 6 points (4G, 2A) in 7 games. Once again, coaches took notice of Menghini’s play, this time by NCAA division 1 schools. “Following this, I was contacted by multiple schools which was a little overwhelming. The coaching staff and Rick Randazzo were fantastic resources and helped me so much with the process. Finally, committing to the University of Minnesota Duluth this week is the beginning of the next chapter in my story. I feel like it is truly my testimony of trusting that God has a plan for me…and I need to wait on His timing. I am so thankful for this opportunity and for the foundation and support I have received from Northstar. Forever a Knight!”
Tim Jackman, who coached Menghini for 2 seasons at Northstar, has seen first hand the grit and determination that the forward has displayed. “Congratulations to Anthony. It is a great testament to patience and endurance through ups and downs and injuries,” Jackman said. “His work ethic and discipline over the last 4 years has helped him accomplish this dream of his. All the best to Duluth with him and they are getting a tenacious competitor and a young man of God.”
Menghini now becomes the 10th Northstar Knight to commit to an NCAA division 1 program joining Talon Sigurdson (Arizona State University), Joey Dosan (Army West Point), Jakob Stender and Reese Laubach (Minnesota State-Mankato), Ben Strinden and Cody Croal (University of North Dakota), Jens Richards (Vermont), Austin Moline (University of Northern Michigan) and Jacob Napier (Western Michigan University). Congratulations Anthony!