Max Weilandt commits to Northern Michigan University
Alexandria, MN (Dec. 11, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The NorthStar Knights are excited to announce that goaltender Max Weilandt has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey at Northern Michigan University. Weilandt played for the 16U Knights during the 2021–22 season, where he delivered one of the strongest single-season goaltending performances in program history. That year, he appeared in 25 games, earned 19 wins, and posted a 1.48 GAA and .935 SV%, establishing himself as one of the top goaltending prospects to come through the program.
Following his time at NorthStar, Weilandt advanced to the junior ranks with the St. Cloud Norsemen (NAHL) during the 2023–24 season, appearing in 32 games with a 2.26 GAA, .910 SV%, and a 13–9–5 record. He was then selected 48th overall in the 2024 USHL Phase Entry Draft by the Des Moines Buccaneers. In his first season with Des Moines, he played in 34 games, posting a 3.17 GAA, .887 SV%, and a 16–12–3 record. This season, Weilandt has appeared in 19 games, recording a 2.89 GAA, a .877 SV%, and an 8–6–5 record, continuing his steady development at the USHL level.
Weilandt shared his commitment publicly on his social media page following the announcement. “I’m grateful to announce my commitment to pursue academics and play Division I hockey at Northern Michigan University. I want to thank God, my family, friends, teammates, and coaches that helped me along the way!”
“We’re excited for Max and thrilled that he will get to play for Coach Shyiak at Northern,” said 18U Prep Head Coach Rylan Galiardi. “Max was a light while he was at NorthStar and developed in every area. We expect him to continue to uphold the things he learned at NorthStar and lead his teams off the ice and on.”
With his commitment to Northern Michigan University, Max becomes the 25th NorthStar Knights alumni to commit to or play at the NCAA Division I level, marking another significant milestone in the continued growth of the program.
The entire NorthStar Knights family congratulates Max on his commitment to Northern Michigan University. His journey from NorthStar to the NAHL, USHL, and now NCAA Division I hockey reflects his dedication to excellence and continued development, and we look forward to following his success at the collegiate level.
Brieg Hazelwood Tenders with Janesville Jets
Alexandria, MN (Dec. 7, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The NorthStar Knights are proud to announce that forward Brieg Hazelwood has tendered with the Janesville Jets of the North American Hockey League (NAHL). Hazelwood has spent the past three seasons with the Knights, beginning at the 16U level in 2023–24 and competing with the 18U Prep team in 2024–25 and 2025–26. During his NorthStar career, Hazelwood has appeared in 128 games, recording 51 goals and 47 assists for 98 points.
This season, Hazelwood is off to a strong start, posting 33 points (15G, 18A) in 28 games played.
“The first opportunity I had to coach Brieg, I remember getting off the ice and saying to Joe Cullen, ‘I can’t believe how hard this guy goes every single rep,’” said 18U Prep Head Coach Rylan Galiardi. “Now to see his skill set coming through on the foundation of just being all in has been really fun. Woody is a special young man, and Janesville is about to get a warrior that has some skill to go with it. We’re really excited to see how he continues to grow, develop, and represent NorthStar moving forward.”
“I’m excited about this next step in my hockey career,” Hazelwood said. “I’m grateful that it will be with the Janesville Jets. I’m looking forward to my future opportunities with them.”
The Knights family congratulates Brieg on earning his NAHL tender with Janesville. His dedication and growth have made a lasting impact within the program, and we look forward to seeing him continue his hockey journey at the next level!
Kingston King Tenders with Janesville Jets
Alexandria, MN (Dec. 5, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The NorthStar Knights are proud to announce that 16U defenseman Kingston King has signed a North American Hockey League (NAHL) tender with the Janesville Jets. King, a native of Valencia, California, is in his second season with the Knights and has shown tremendous growth throughout his time in the program—developing into a well-rounded, mature, and reliable presence on the blue line.
This season, King has recorded 12 points (2G, 10A) in 26 games, continuing to elevate his game through consistency and poise. Last year with the 16U Knights, he posted 15 points (2G, 13A) in 54 games played, demonstrating steady development in all areas of his play. In addition to his NAHL tender, King retains his WHL rights after being selected by the Medicine Hat Tigers in the 2024 WHL Prospects Draft (9th round, #193 overall).
“Kingston’s dedication to learn has shown huge improvement over the last two seasons—in the game and in his character,” said 16U AAA Head Coach Dallas Steward. “We look forward to watching him progress in Janesville!”
“This opportunity is exciting for me because it’s the next big step in my rapidly evolving journey through hockey,” King said. “I’m looking forward to furthering my development with the Janesville Jets.”
The entire NorthStar Knights family congratulates Kingston on earning his NAHL tender with Janesville and we look forward to supporting him as he takes this next step in his hockey journey. Stay tuned as another NorthStar Knight has tendered with the Jets and will be officially announced early next week!
Joey Habbe Tenders with Brooks Bandits
Alexandria, MN (Dec. 2, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The NorthStar Knights are excited to share that defenseman Joey Habbe has signed a tender with the Brooks Bandits of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL). Habbe, a 6-foot-6, 205-pound blueliner from Rapid City, South Dakota, has taken major strides in his second season within the Knights program and continues to be one of the most physical and imposing defensemen on the 18U Prep roster.
Habbe joined the Knights during the 2024-25 season at the 16U level, where he posted 17 points (4G, 13A) across 55 games. Through 29 games this season, the defenseman has recorded 11 points (0G, 11A) while providing a steady, hard-nosed presence on the back end. His physicality, reach, and puck-moving ability have made him a key shutdown defender for NorthStar. “His play has spoken for itself,” said 18U Prep Head Coach Rylan Galiardi. “Not only does he defend well with his length, size, and strength, but what makes Joey special is he can play with his eyes up and make breakout plays as if he was 5-6 even though he’s 6-6. His potential is immense, and he’s been gifted physically and mentally.”
“We are thrilled for Joey to be able to get this opportunity with Brooks and the BCHL next year”, Galiardi added. “What’s most exciting is that he’s going to be a light in western Canada and take his rock-solid faith to a new team and a new country with the things he’s learned at NorthStar, but ultimately from the word of God. We are super thrilled for Joey and can’t wait to see him continue to develop and grow this year heading into next season.”
The Bandits have long been one of junior hockey’s premier organizations—a powerhouse in the AJHL with seven league championships before joining the BCHL for the 2023–24 season, where they quickly established themselves again by winning the BCHL championship in 2024–25. Habbe now becomes the latest Knight to join one of North America’s most successful development programs.
“It means a lot to sign with such a great organization with a lot of history,” Habbe said. “I am super excited for the opportunity!”
The entire NorthStar Knights family congratulates Joey on earning this opportunity with Brooks and we look forward to watching him continue to grow, compete, and represent NorthStar with excellence as he takes the next step in his hockey journey!
Silcox, Simpson Tender in NAHL
Alexandria, MN (Nov. 19, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The NorthStar Knights are proud to announce that 18U Prep forwards Quayden Silcox and Colin Simpson have signed North American Hockey League tenders. Silcox has tendered with the Austin Bruins, while Simpson has signed with the Minnesota Mallards.
Silcox, a Greeley, Colorado native, is in his second season with the Knights. The 6-foot, 175-pound forward has been off to a great start this season, posting 20 points (7G, 13A) in 26 games played. Across his NorthStar career, Silcox has totaled 66 points (25G, 41A) in 78 games and continues to contribute through his speed, compete level, and playmaking ability. “Quayden has been a leader since he got here”, said 18U Prep Head Coach, Rylan Galiardi. “He is extremely high-character and does a lot of little things that would make for a great linemate. He has brought a lot to NorthStar and is only going to keep getting better. Austin is getting a strong ability player and someone that's gonna continue to carry what's been a strong pipeline of players to Austin.” The strong pipeline Galiardi referenced includes 9 former Knights in Ben Oakland (‘20), Tyler Ryder (‘20), Jens Richards (‘21), Dylan Cook (‘22), Landon Dauner (‘23), Gavin Hruza (‘24), Andrew Leung (‘24), Jake Spraetz (‘24), and Hudson Routh (‘25). “I just want to give God the glory”, Silcox said. “Tendering with Austin is a big blessing and opportunity. It means having a place that believes in me and somewhere I can continue to grow. I’m really excited to play there, compete at a high level, and make the most of this opportunity.”
Simpson, a native of Elk Grove Village, Illinois, is in his first year within the Knights program and has emerged as one of the leading scorers on the 18U Prep roster. In 26 games played this season, Simpson ranks third on the team in scoring with 30 points (12G, 18A). Since his arrival, Simpson has made an immediate impact with the Knights. “Colin is one of our more talented guys that has come into NorthStar”, said Galiardi. He came as a humble young man and has quickly gelled and jumped in on our culture and what a NorthStar Knight is supposed to play like.” With the Mallards joining the NAHL in 2024, Simpson becomes the first Knight to tender with their program and will look to continue his momentum with him. “His gifts are getting illuminated here and everything that God has put into him is only growing as he's here”, Galiardi added. “The Mallards are getting a player that's only going to keep getting better and more importantly a guy that is growing in his character and is going to be somebody that is going to be a strong presence in their locker room for hopefully a long time.”
The entire NorthStar Knights family congratulates Quayden and Colin on earning their NAHL tenders. Their dedication and growth continue to positively impact the Knights’ culture, and we look forward to seeing them excel at the next level with Austin and Minnesota.
Carter Sanderson and Bode Laylin named to Team USA World Jr. A Challenge Roster
Alexandria, MN (Nov. 13, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
USA Hockey announced the 2025 World Junior A Challenge roster on Wednesday, November 12, naming former NorthStar Knights Carter Sanderson and Bode Laylin to the U.S. Junior Select Team that will compete in Trois-Rivières, Québec from December 7–13.
Each year, USA Hockey fields a U.S. Junior Select Team comprised of the top junior players from leagues across the country. Team USA has captured 10 World Junior A Challenge titles since the tournament’s inception in 2006. This year’s event will feature matchups against Canada East, Canada West, and Sweden in a 10-game international showcase.
Sanderson currently plays with the Muskegon Lumberjacks and is committed to the University of North Dakota. He was also selected by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2025 NHL Draft. The Pierre, SD native played for the 16U Knights during the 2022-23 season where he scored 35 points (12G, 23A) in 55 games played. The last 2 seasons, Sanderson has been a key piece to the Lumberjacks forward group, helping the team win the USHL’s Clark Cup in 2025 and currently has 11 points (6G, 5A) in 16 games played this season.
Laylin is a defenseman for the Tri-City Storm and is committed to the University of St. Thomas. The St. Michael, MN native spent two seasons with the Knights’ 16U program from 2022–24, recording an impressive 64 points (12G, 52A) in 87 games. His 0.74 points per game remain the highest scoring rate by a defenseman at the 16U level in NorthStar history. Now in his second full season with Tri-City, Laylin has compiled 30 points (5G, 25A) in 77 career USHL games and currently leads the Storm in ice time at 25:00 per game.
“Exciting for Bode and Carter to make the USHL all-star team of players representing our country,” said NorthStar Executive Director Dallas Steward. “Both players excelled at NorthStar on and off the ice. They are great players and representatives to try and earn our country a medal!”
Sanderson and Laylin now join a growing list of Knights earning opportunities on the international stage, including Zaide Penner, who represented Team USA at the 18U Hlinka Gretzky Cup, and Lincoln Kuehne, who played with the U.S. National Team Development Program (USNTDP).
The entire NorthStar Knights family congratulates Carter and Bode on this prestigious honor. We look forward to cheering them on as they represent the United States on the international stage and continue to embody the character, excellence, and leadership they displayed during their time at NorthStar!
Paul Suda Tenders with the Aberdeen Wings
Alexandria, MN (Nov. 12, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The NorthStar Knights are proud to announce that goaltender Paul Suda has tendered with the Aberdeen Wings of the North American Hockey League. Suda, a Grafton, North Dakota native, is in his first season with the Knights’ 18U Prep team. So far this season, he has yet to lose a game, posting a record of 14-0-0. The junior goaltender also carries a 1.53 GAA, a .945 SV%, and three shutouts.
“Paul for a young guy is already basically a professional”, said 18U Prep Head Coach, Rylan Galiardi. “He is always extremely prepared and does a great job taking care of his body and mind. In games he’s been very focused and responds well to highs and lows - He’s been very consistent for us all year.” Galiardi also had high praise for Suda off the ice. “Off the ice he’s been a learner. He’s been a great student and he’s been attentive in chapel and we are excited to keep working with him. He has the opportunity to keep growing and see how he takes what he's learned here and take it with him next year.”
Suda’s tender adds him to a well-established Aberdeen program recognized for its consistent success. The Wings captured the NAHL Championship in 2019, reached the league finals again in 2021, have qualified for the playoffs in each of the past eight seasons, and currently sit atop the Central Division standings.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to keep developing my game in a great league, contribute to a winning locker room, and represent the Aberdeen organization the right way on and off the ice,” Suda said.
The entire NorthStar Knights family congratulates Paul on this exciting next step in his hockey journey and looks forward to seeing all he accomplishes with Aberdeen!
Knights Launch 2025–26 Season
Alexandria, MN (Sept. 9, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The Northstar Knights are proud to announce the start of the 2025–26 hockey season, unveiling its 18U Prep and 16U AAA rosters and an exciting schedule packed with top-tier competition and showcases across the country.
The 18U Prep team, led by Head Coach Rylan Galiardi and Associate Coach Joe Cullen, will feature 14 returning players, including several moving up from last year’s 16U AAA squad. The roster includes players representing Minnesota (5), North Dakota (5), Colorado (3), South Dakota (2), Washington (2), Arizona (1), Virginia (1), Maine (1), Michigan (1), and Illinois (1).
The 16U AAA team will be coached by Dallas Steward and newly added Jim DePaolo. DePaolo comes from Dallas, TX where he had a very successful 13 year tenure as the Head Coach for Dallas Baptist University. The team welcomes back five returning players from last season. This year’s roster features players from Minnesota (7), North Dakota (6), Washington (2), California (2), Colorado (1), Iowa (1), Missouri (1), North Carolina (1), South Dakota (1), and Wisconsin (1).
“It’s a joy to witness the players’ excitement as we launch another school year at Northstar,” Galiardi said. “We’re thrilled to welcome new staff and their families to our program and ministry. We’re grateful for the opportunity to unite our staff and community in supporting these boys, focusing on Jesus, hockey, and academics.”
Both the 18U Prep and 16U AAA schedules will challenge the teams with appearances at some of the nation’s premier showcases. Highlights include the Blades Showcase in Minneapolis, the Fargo Force Showcase in Fargo, and Tier 1 Elite League events in Sioux Falls. The Knights will also compete at NEPACK Showcases in Pittsburgh, PA and Woodbridge, NJ, the Chicago Mission Invite in Chicago, and will close the season at the prestigious Texas Shootout in Dallas. Throughout the year, both teams will face opponents consistently ranked among the top 50 nationwide, providing players with elite exposure and development opportunities.
The Knights strength and conditioning program will be led by newly added Zach Steffens, ensuring players are prepared physically for the rigors of the season. Steffens joins the Knights after spending the last 3 years at Queens University (Charlotte, NC) as an Assistant Sports Performance Coach where he also received his Master of Science. As a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Steffens will help instill discipline, resilience, and a commitment to excellence in the weight room.
Off the ice, the Knights remain committed to developing well-rounded student-athletes through a strong academic foundation. The program is led by Head of School Ashley Mickelson, with Academic Advisors Jen Halvorson and Bailey Bassen providing individualized guidance and support to each player. Together, they ensure that the boys excel not only in hockey, but also in the classroom, preparing them for success in college, future careers, and life beyond the rink.
True to its vision, the Knights integrate faith into every aspect of the program. Players take part in chapels, discipleship groups, and service projects led by Mark Bassen, creating opportunities to grow together in their faith and live it out in meaningful ways. “We are very excited this year to see God move in an awesome way,” said Bassen. “Hearing both teams sing songs to Jesus at our Saturday night service at Geneva was incredible. This year we will continue to point the kids to this wonderful gospel of what Christ has done for us at the cross. The greatest resource we have at Northstar is the wonderful performance of Jesus Christ. His life, death and resurrection is still changing lives today.”
Zaide Penner and USA Win Gold Medal at the 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup
Trencin, Slovakia (Aug. 19, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
Knights alumni Zaide Penner helped the U.S. Under-18 Men’s Team capture the gold at the 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup in Czechia and Slovakia, becoming the first Knights alumni to win a medal at the international level.
The U.S. team defeated Sweden, 5-3 to claim the championship, finishing the tournament with a record of 4-1-0. This marks Team USA’s second Hlinka Gretzky Cup championship and its first since 2003.
Penner contributed 1 goal and 1 assist over 5 games, helping Team USA achieve victory at one of the world’s premier under-18 hockey tournaments.
“It’s amazing. Our guys battled hard, and our power play was great. It’s a great feeling to win that one,” said US Head Coach, Kevin Porter. “These players came to play every night. It was awesome to see. We’re champions now.”
The Knights want to congratulate Penner on this historic achievement and look forward to following his continued success both on and off the ice.
Zaide Penner Named to Team USA for 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup
Alexandria, MN (Aug. 2, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The Northstar Knights are proud to announce that defenseman Zaide Penner has been selected to represent USA Hockey at the 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, an elite international U18 tournament hosted in Czechia and Slovakia August 9 - 16.
Penner, a Fargo, North Dakota native and 2008 birth year, has been a cornerstone of the 16U AAA team for the past two seasons. The 6-foot, 170-pound defenseman played in 104 career games, recording 10 goals, 57 assists, and 67 total points. Known for his poise with the puck and high-level hockey IQ, Penner has consistently demonstrated elite ability in all three zones.
During his time with the Knights, Penner’s growth earned him selections by both the Spokane Chiefs in the 2023 WHL Draft and the Fargo Force in the 2024 USHL Draft. He made his USHL debut on December 4, 2024, suiting up for the Force in a regular-season game.
“It’s an incredible honor to represent the United States and wear the USA jersey”, Penner said of being selected. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to compete at this high level with some of the best players in the world. I’m most excited to play with pride, challenge myself every day, and create unforgettable memories with this team.”
The Hlinka Gretzky Cup is widely regarded as one of the premier international tournaments for U18 players, regularly featuring the best young talent from all around the world. Check out the US National Team Roster here
"We are so excited for Zaide as he has put in the hard work and dedication to develop into an elite player the last 2 years at Northstar and will represent the USA well in the Hlinka Gretzky Cup tourney", said 16U AAA Head Coach & Program Director, Dallas Steward. "We will enjoy rooting for him in this upcoming tournament!"