Dylan McCann tenders with Neepawa Titans of the MJHL
Alexandria, MN (Mar. 19, 2024)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations and Media Relations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
The Northstar Knights are proud to announce that 18U Prep defenseman, Dylan McCann, has tendered with the Neepawa Titans of the MJHL (Manitoba Junior Hockey League).
“We want to congratulate Dylan on his recent tender”, 18U Prep Associate Coach, Joe Cullen said. “Dylan will be leaving us after spending 3 years at NorthStar. We’re proud of the strides he’s made and the player he has become. The big man has a great presence on and off the ice, and he will be hard to replace.”
McCann joined the Knights Program in 2021 and has been a staple on the Knights blueline ever since. While the Minot, ND native won’t light up the stat sheet, McCann has been a much needed physical presence and a warrior for the Knights. The “big man” stands at 6-3 and 210 lbs and has been a force to be reckoned with for opposing teams forwards. In 2021-22, McCann scored 3 points (0G, 3A) in 56 games played for the 16U Knights. He increased his point total in the 2022-23 season by scoring 10 points (3G, 7A) in 46 games played, some of which he fought through injuries. This season for the 18U Prep team, McCann has scored 15 points (1G, 14A) in 48 games played. “I’m excited for this opportunity to be a part of the Titans organization”, McCann said. “I would like to thank my family and coaches for helping me get to this point”.
The Knights want to congratulate Dylan on his tender and are excited to watch him flourish in Canada next season!
Dylan Toth Tenders with Rockets Hockey Club of the NCDC
Alexandria, MN (Mar. 6, 2024)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
The Northstar Knights are proud to announce that 18U Prep forward, Dylan Toth, has tendered with the Rockets Hockey Club of the NCDC. The NCDC is one of two Tier 2 tuition-free junior hockey leagues in the United States and it falls under the umbrella of the USPHL. The Rockets play in the NCDC's south division and have 2 players committed to NCAA Division 1 programs this season.
Toth joined the Knights program this season after spending the 2022-23 season with Elite Hockey Academy 16U AAA where he totaled 41 (20G, 21A) points in 62 games played. Prior to playing at Elite Hockey Academy, Toth was a product of the Los Angeles Jr. Kings program. This season, the Lomita CA native ranked 5th on the 18U Prep team with 38 points (18G, 20A) in 46 games played. “I just want to thank God, my family and coaches for this opportunity”, Toth said. “I want to specifically thank my parents for their support and sacrifices they made for me along with my coaches for their constant investment in me. I look forward to this opportunity in New Jersey!” Toth has been a welcomed attrition to the Knights program this season both on and off the ice. “Dylan has a will and a strength about his game, combined with his work ethic and competitiveness, that makes him a very valuable player for any team”, added 18U Prep Head Coach Rylan Galiardi. “We expect him to be an awesome player for the Rockets next year. More importantly, Dylan has grown immensely as a Godly young man and we’re excited for his future.”
The Knights host Sioux Falls Power 18U AAA on Thursday March, 7th at 5:00 PM. The Knights will play their final home game weekend March 9th (4:00 & 6:30 PM) and 10th (9:00 & 11:30 AM) against the Lincoln Stars 16U AAA and Lake Forest Prep 18U AAA.
Leung, Murphy Sign Tenders in the NAHL
Alexandria, MN (Feb. 27, 2024)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
The Northstar Knights are proud to announce that 18U Prep teammates Andrew Leung and Ryan Murphy have signed tenders in the NAHL. The NAHL is currently in its 49th season in and is the only USA Hockey-sanctioned Tier II Junior league comprising of 32 teams from across North America. A tender is a type of contract that players can sign that gives a team their exclusive rights. Once a player signs a tender with a team, their rights are held exclusively by that team and they are no longer eligible for the NAHL draft.
Andrew Leung tendered with the Austin Bruins and joins a long line of Knights Alumni to play in a Bruin uniform with Landon Dauner (‘23), Dylan Cook (‘22), Adler Johnston (‘22), Jens Richards (‘20), Tyler Ryder (‘20) and Ben Oakland (‘20). Leung will also be joined in Austin with current Knights, Gavin Hruza and Jake Spraetz, who tendered earlier in the season. “I am extremely excited to tender with the Bruins and join a long list of former teammates and Northstar alumni”, Leung said. “I would like to thank my family, and coaches for helping me get to this point. I can’t wait to get started!” The Renton, WA native joined the Knights in the 2021-22 season and has been an integral piece of the Knights blueline and leadership group ever since. Leung has served as the Captain for the 16U AAA team in 2022-23 and with the 18U Prep team this season. In his 3 seasons with the Knights, Leung has scored 67 points (15G, 52A) in 156 games played. As of last weekend, Leung played in his 156th game as a Knight which ranked him 1st in Knights history in games played, surpassing Caleb Elfering who played in 155 games. “The Northstar staff want to congratulate Andrew on his tender with Austin”, said 18U Prep Associate Coach, Joe Cullen. “He has been a true representation of a Northstar Knight for the last 3 years. He’s loved and respected by teammates and coaches. His leadership and work ethic are unmatched and we know he will be successful as he continues in his career.”
Ryan Murphy tendered with the Wisconsin Windigo and has been a part of the Knights organization since the 2021-22 season. In 140 games played through 3 seasons, Murphy has scored 108 points (37G, 71A), which ranks him 10th overall in career points at Northstar. This season, Murphy is 2nd on the 18U Prep team with 37 points (13G, 24A) in 43 games played. “I am extremely excited for this opportunity to tender with the Windigo”, Murphy said. “I would like to thank God, my family, and my coaches to help me get to this point. I can’t wait to get started next season!” Murphy (and Leung) join a short list of players to suit up for the Knights for 3 seasons and has made significant strides in his development every year. “We are excited to see Ryan get this opportunity with Wisconsin for next season”, said 18U Prep Head Coach, Rylan Galiardi. “As a 3 year Knight Ryan has grown immensely in every area of his life. His hockey sense and skill will make him an impact player as a rookie. More importantly, his foundation in the Lord will prepare him for the highs and lows of junior hockey.”
The Knights look forward to watching Leung and Murphy take the next step in their hockey careers. The team heads to Cedar Rapids, IA this weekend, March 1-3 for games against Nichols Prep (16U) and the Cleveland Barons (18U) before returning on March 8-9 for their final home games of the season against Lincoln Stars (16U) and Lake Forest Prep (18U).
Knights Introduce First Ever Summer Camps in 2024
Alexandria, MN (Feb. 16, 2024)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations and Media Relations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
The Northstar Knights are excited to announce the introductions of Knights Summer camps, beginning in 2024. The summer camps will reach all age groups for both boys and girls. All camps will take place at the Northstar Sports Complex in Alexandria, MN and will feature elite facilities, character training, quality instruction, biblical truth and professional coaches. Leading the camps will be the Knights Coaching Staff Dallas Steward, Mark Abalan, Rylan Galiardi, Joe Cullen and Antony Organ. Between the coaches, they have 12 years of NCAA Division 1 playing experience, 21 years of professional playing experience, 20 years of coaching AAA hockey, 18 years of coaching in the USHL and 6 years of coaching NCAA Division 1. The mission of the camps is to provide competitive girls and boys hockey development and help them grow in their faith.
The first camp that will kick off the summer is the Knights Summer Training Program, which will be an invite only 10-week program for high school, junior and college players. The Summer Training Program will run from June 3 to August 10. Each week, the players will train both on the ice and in the weight room Mondays through Thursdays. Over the entirety of the Summer Training Program, the athletes will have access to 30 hours of ice time led by Knights coaches, 60 hours of off ice training implemented by the Knights Strength Specialist and daily devotion. They will also have full access to the shooting bays, weight room, cold tub, sauna and Knights’ Locker Room. The summer training program will also have the flexibility for athletes to choose monthly or weekly drop ins at a prorated cost.
The Knights Mite camp will take place June 11 - 13 and will be open to 2014 to 2018 birth years. This camp will be a day camp and open to both boys and girls. It will be led by Knights coaches and will feature 4 ice times, dry land training, recreational activities, chapels, small group devotionals and discipleship. Each athlete will also receive a Bible, T-Shirt and Jersey. Specific times of the camp will be announced in the coming weeks.
The Knights Development Camp will be June 25 - 27th and will be an invite only camp for the Knights rising 16U team and select 2008 through 2010 birth years. Players that are interested in this camp must have a player interest form filled out in order to be considered for the camp. The Development Camp will be an overnight camp and players will need to provide their own lodging in Alexandria. At this camp, the athletes will have 5 total skates, strength training in the weight room, chapels, discipleship led by coaches and mentors, team building recreational activities and video sessions. A bible and T-Shirt will be included and players will have access to use Knights Practice Jerseys.
The Knights Young Guns Camp will be hosted July 9 - 11 and will be open to boys only in the 2010 and 2011 Birth Years and will have 2-4 goaltender spots available. This will be a day camp that will include 5 to 6 ice time sessions with the Knights coaches as well as dry land training with the Knights strength specialist. Also included will be recreational activities, chapels, small group devotionals and discipleship. A bible, T-Shirt and a jersey will be included.
The Knights Skills-Checking Camp will run from July 23 - 25. The camp will be open to boys and girls for the 2013 and 2014 birth years and boys only for the 2010 through 2012 birth years. The emphasis of the camp will be on small area games as well as body contact instruction (checking) for the 2010 through 2012 birth years. The camp will include 5 to 6 ice time sessions as well as dryland training, recreational activities, chapels, small group devotionals and discipleship. A bible, T-Shirt and Jersey will be included. Goalies are welcome to attend and will have 2-3 spots open for the 2010-2012 birth years and 2-3 spots for the 2013-2014 birth years.
The Knights Girls Camp will be hosted August 6 - 8 and will be open to 2006 through 2013 birth years. This day camp will split the girls into 2 groups, one group being 2006 through 2009 birth years, and the second being 2010 through 2013 birth years. The camp will include 6 ice time sessions, dry land training, chapels, small group devotionals and discipleships. A bible, t-shirt and jersey will be included. Goaltenders interested in attending the girls camp will receive a discount and can reach out to the coaching staff to discuss further.
Knights launch new donation page platform
Alexandria, MN (Feb. 6, 2024)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
The Northstar Knights are excited to announce the launch of their new donation page. The revamped donation page will allow for donations to be allocated into 3 different funds of “Scholarship”, “Operations” and “Priority Needs”. Donations can be made either as “one time” or “monthly” amounts. “At Northstar, those who have supported the need of impacting young people in sports, displaying God’s love and truth in relationship, we continue to need and receive financial support!” said interim Director, Dallas Steward. “Thank you to those who feel led to partner with us in the mission, as we go; sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, training godly men, leading the next generation.”
The Scholarship Fund goes towards helping Knights players in need of financial assistance in order to attend the program.
The Operations Fund goes toward things that the Northstar Sports Complex facility needs to operate efficiently and effectively. Some examples of what the facility may need is a new zamboni, glass for the rink and nets.
The Priority Needs Fund goes toward tangible items for the Knights hockey program. Some of these items are new game and practice jerseys, meals for players on road trips, and items adding to tradition of the program.
18U Prep Team Captain, Andrew Leung shares, “My experience at Northstar has been transformational. Consistently learning God’s word and developing a relationship with him has shown me that there is much more to my life than just Hockey. I feel that I have built a strong foundation in Christ that will prepare me for whatever comes next in life.”
Our heart at Northstar is Matthew 28:19 that says, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the father, son and holy spirit.” If you are inspired by this opportunity to give financially, please visit our Donation Tab on our website.
Michael Mathison tenders with the Philadelphia Rebels of the NAHL
Alexandria, MN (Nov. 27, 2023)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
Northstar Knights 18U Prep forward, Michael Mathison, has tendered with the Philadelphia Rebels of the NAHL. The Rebels are in the east division of the NAHL and compete against teams from Pennsylvania, Maryland, Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and New York. After playing 2 seasons with the Team North Dakota Program, Mathison joined the 16U Knights team for the 2022-23 season. In 55 games played, the Fargo, ND native scored 47 points (16G, 31A), ranking him 4th on the team in points. Mathison was also a key member on the Knights special teams units, helping the team to a 21% Power Play and a 92% Penalty Kill. This season, Mathison moved up to the 18U Prep team where he ranks 2nd on the team in scoring with 24 points (9G, 15A) in 21 games played. “I’d like to thank my family, coaches, and everyone who has helped me get to this point” Mathison said. “I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to my future with the team!” The Fargo, ND native will be a welcomed addition to the Rebels forward group next season as the team has 5 forwards aging out at the end of the season. “We are excited for Michael to get the opportunity he will have with Philadelphia”, said 18U Prep Head Coach, Rylan Galiardi. “He has been an “every day” guy so far this season on the ice and off the ice. His work ethic and consistency to being a Northstar Knight is apparent. We’re excited to see his growth continue this season and we’re proud of him!”
The Knights travel to Rochester, NY this weekend to participate in the USHL Cup (Dec 1 – Dec 3) and will face off against top ranked opponents from Indiana, New York, Massachusetts and New Jersey.
Gage Martell tenders with the Odessa Jackalopes
Alexandria, MN (Nov. 14, 2023)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
Northstar Knights 18U Prep defenseman, Gage Martell, has tendered with the Odessa Jackalopes of the NAHL. The Bismarck, ND native joined the Knights this season after spending last season at Legacy High School where he scored 16 points (7G, 9A) in 26 games played. This season, Martell has been a lockdown defenseman for the Knights, helping the team only allow 1.37 goals per game and has chipped in with 4 points (0G, 4A) in 19 games played. “I would like to congratulate Gage on his tender to Odessa”, said 18U Prep Assistant Coach, Joe Cullen. “Gage is a talented player who has adjusted well playing at Northstar. We like how much he has improved and expect a lot from him in the second half of the season. We are looking forward to helping him pursue his next step in his hockey career.” Odessa plays in the south division in the NAHL, a division that is known for its physical style of play and Martell's grit and physicality will be a welcomed addition to the Jackelopes. “I am extremely excited and thankful for the opportunity to take another step in my hockey career”, Martell said. “I would like to thank my parents, coaches, family, and friends for supporting me through this journey. I am very excited to be in Odessa next year. All glory to God!”
The Knights travel to Grand Forks, ND this weekend to take on Prairie Hockey Academy from Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. The Knights will play on Friday (16U: 12:30 PM, 18U: 1:30 PM) and Saturday (16U: 10:30 AM, 18U: 12:30 PM) before taking next week off for Thanksgiving Break.
Hruza, Spraetz and Friedrich Sign Tenders in the NAHL
Alexandria, MN (Nov. 8, 2023)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
Northstar Knights 18U Prep players, Gavin Hruza, Jake Spraetz, and Hunter Friedrich signed tenders in the NAHL on November 1. A tender is a contract that a player signs announcing his intentions to play for that particular NAHL team. Once a player signs a tender with an NAHL team, his playing rights belong to that team within the NAHL and he may not be recruited by any other NAHL team. Each team is granted 10 tenders which became active on November 1st. Hruza and Spraetz tendered with the Austin Bruins and Friedrich tendered with the Chippewa Steel. “The Northstar staff wants to congratulate Gavin, Jake, and Hunter on tendering in the NAHL”, said 18U Prep Associate Coach, Joe Cullen. “Their success is directly related to their work ethic and dedication to this team. We are excited for their future and know they will continue to be a light as they move on from Northstar.”
Hruza is one of the longest tenured Knights, having joined the program in 2021. During the 2021-22 season with the 16U Knights, the Horace, ND native scored 39 points (21G, 18A) in 56 games played. Last season with the 18U Prep team, Hruza suited up for 52 games where he scored 42 points (18G, 24). His 42 points ranked 5th on the team, however he ranked 2nd on the team in 5v5 point percentage at 90%, meaning his points were hard earned. This season, Hruza has come flying out of the gates as he leads the team in points with 28 (17G, 11A) in just 19 games played. The senior forward was elected as one of the 2 captains of the 18U Prep team alongside teammate Andrew Leung. “I would like to thank my friends, family and coaches”, Hruza said. “I am looking forward to getting to Austin for the new experiences and to further my hockey career.”
Jake Spraetz is arguably one of the most dynamic skaters the program has ever had. The forward joined the 16U Knights team last season coming over from Phoenix, AZ. In 46 games played, Spraetz scored 40 points (19G, 21A) and was a big force on the Knights special teams, adding 12 power play points (3G, 9A) and led the team with 7 short handed points (5G, 2A). His speed and tenacity to hunt the puck were a big part of the PK unit that finished with a 92% success rate. His successful season even caught the eyes of junior scouts as he was drafted #204 overall by the Sioux City Musketeers in the 2023 USHL draft. This season he has scored 16 points (7G, 9A) in 19 games played. “I would like to thank God, family, and my coaches for this exciting opportunity in Austin to continue my hockey career”, Spraetz said.
Hunter Friedrich has been a welcomed addition to the 18U Prep team this season. The Chanhassen, MN native joined the Knights following 2 seasons with Holy Family Catholic High School. In 19 games played this season, Friedrich is tied for first among defenseman in points with 8 (1G, 7A). Friedrich is a steady presence on the Knights blueline and is also a tremendous teammate that emulates everything the Knights look for in a player. “I am extremely excited and honored to receive the tender”, said Friedrich. “I would like to thank my coaches, family, and most importantly God for giving me this opportunity. I can’t wait to get started!”
The 18U Knights return to action at home this weekend against the Omaha Mastery with games on Saturday (6:30 PM) and Sunday (11:30 AM).
Knights Alumni, Brian Morse, commits to NCAA D1 University of Maine
Alexandria, MN (Nov. 6, 2023)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
The Northstar Knights are proud to announce that alumni, Brian Morse, has committed to the University of Maine. “I am extremely excited and honored to be committing to such a historic program like Maine”, Morse said. “I’m looking forward to getting up there and putting the work in to extend my career as long as possible. I’d like to thank my friends, family, coaches, and most importantly God for helping me achieve this goal of mine.” The Fresno, CA native joined the 18U Knights for the 2020-21 season. In 42 games played, Morse scored 21 points (2G, 19A) while helping his team win the NAPHL Championship that season. During the 2021-22 season, Morse broke out to be one of the best defenseman at the 18U AAA level. In 55 games played, Morse scored 74 points (13G, 61A) which ranked him in first place among all 18U AAA defenseman in the country. His production helped his team win another NAPHL championship as well as an invite to the 18U NAPHL All Star game. After his successful season, Morse was drafted #222 overall by the Youngstown Phantoms of the USHL, however, Morse chose to sign with the Chilliwack Chiefs of the BCHL. During the 2022-23 season with the Chiefs, Morse scored 21 points (5G, 16A) in 53 regular season games and also added 10 points (3G, 7A) in 15 playoff games. This season, he’s produced 13 points (5G, 8A) in 15 games played, which tie him for 2nd place on the team and 4th place among all the BCHL defenseman. “We are thrilled for Brian and his commitment to Maine”, said 18U Prep Head Coach, Rylan Galiardi. “He was such a joy to coach while he was here and I am thankful for our continued relationship. Ben Barr (University of Maine Head Coach) and his staff will be getting a D that can play in every situation and plays like a Northstar warrior. More importantly, Brian will be a leader both on the ice but off the ice for his teammates and team.”
Knights riding high heading into November
Alexandria, MN (Nov. 2, 2023)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
The Northstar Knights 16U AAA and 18U Prep teams close out the month of October with plenty to be proud of and an eagerness to build on their success. The Knights began the month with a trip to Fargo, ND from October 6-8 for the Fargo Force showcase and followed that up with a strong home stand against the Minnesota Select Development Program from October 14-15. The Knights then traveled to Mt. Prospect, IL from October 20-22 for the Chicago Reapers showcase where the team’s played arguably their best stretch of hockey this season. “The Chicago weekend was a big step of growth for our group”, said 16U coach, Mark Abalan. “We played 9 of our hardest working periods of the year against our toughest competition to date. I loved our commitment to the team and commitment to compete from our guys. Winning requires consistency, focus and details and we are starting to make these our team identity.”
The #12 ranked 16U Knights went 7-1-2 during the month of october, earning wins against #54 Minnesota Blades, #96 Colorado Thunderbirds, #13 Chicago Reapers, #17 Minnesota SDP, #18 Compuware, and #11 Chicago Mission. During this stretch, the team averaged 3.30 goals per game while only surrendering 1.70 goals against per game. The team also outshot their opponents by an average of 13 shots each game. Most impressive of the team’s performance was the special teams as their power play operated at 21% and the penalty kill with a perfect 100%. At forward, Hunter Rudolph and Jaxson Kaebel led the team in points with 8, followed by Sam Horstman and Hudson Routh with 7. On the blueline, Bode Laylin led the team with 10 points (3G, 7A) followed by Zaide Penner (0G, 7A) and Alex Schlafman (0G, 4A). The Knights goaltenders were stellar as Christopher Dean went 3-0-2 with 1 shutout, .946 SV% and 1.00 GAA. Gavin Erickson posted a record of 4-0-1 with 1 shutout and .934 SV% 1.80 GAA.
The #22 ranked 18U Knights went 9-1-0 over the last month and ride a 9 game win streak headed into the Knights Showcase this coming weekend. After falling to #26 ranked Dallas Stars Elite in the opening game of the Fargo Force Showcase, the Knights have taken down #46 Chicago Fury, #15 Chicago Reapers, #39 Phoenix Jr. Coyotes, #85 Minnesota SDP, #55 Windy City Storm, #32 Chicago Mission and #34 Minnesota Lakers. The Knights offense exploded for 4.70 goals per game while the defense and goaltending only allowed 2 goals against per game. “Excited for our group to get rewarded with on-ice success after the foundation that has been built their first two months”,18U Prep Head Coach, Rylan Galiardi said. “With their involvement in the community, focus in chapel and discipleship, work in the classroom, training in the gym and skating twice a day, we have seen these young men grow immensely so far in their discipline and character.”
Leading the charge on offense for the Knights was Gavin Hruza with 15 points (11G, 4A). Four other forwards produced at least a point per game in Ryan Murphy (3G, 10A), Jake Spraetz (6G, 7A), Michael Mathison (5G, 7A) and Bookie Warshaw (6G, 4A). On defense, Dylan McCann and William Bisset led with 6 points a piece (1G, 5A), followed by Hunter Friedrich with 5 (0G, 5A). Andrew Leung, Darik Olson, Gage Martell and Carson Wendorff also had a strong month of october, helping limit the goaltenders to less that 25 shots per game. In net, Trenton Carr went 5-0 with a .912 SV% and a 2.40 GAA. After playing in the loss to the Dallas Jr. Stars in Fargo, Trevor Torres has slammed the door shut. The Long Beach, CA native has won 4 straight games, 3 of which have been shutouts while posting a SV% of .987 and a 0.25 GAA.
The Knights return to action with a big weekend ahead as they host the Knights Showcase from Thursday through Sunday, playing teams from Canada, Iowa and Maryland.