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!"
Knights Alumni, Luke Schelter, Commits to University of St. Thomas
Alexandria, MN (May. 24, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The Northstar Knights are proud to announce that former 16U standout Luke Schelter has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey at the University of St. Thomas.
“I’m extremely excited and honored to announce my commitment to play Division 1 hockey at the University of St. Thomas,” said Schelter. “All glory to God, and a huge thank you to my family, friends, and coaches for their support along the way.”
Schelter played for the 16U Knights during the 2020-21 season, where he led the team in scoring with 25 goals and 23 assists for 48 points in 46 games. His impressive performance earned him a spot on the 16U All-NAPHL Team.
Following his time at Northstar the Centennial, CO native spent four seasons in the WHL, splitting time between the Portland Winterhawks and the Kelowna Rockets. Over 189 WHL games, he tallied 31 goals and 40 assists for 71 points, helping his teams reach the playoffs in each full season. In 2024-25, he skated for the Fargo Force in the USHL, posting 10 goals and 19 assists for 29 points in 52 games.
Schelter becomes the 23rd Knight to commit to or play for a Division I program. He is also the third Knight to commit to the University of St. Thomas, joining Bode Laylin (’08) and Bauer Berry (’05), as the Tommies continue to build a competitive roster.
St. Thomas has quickly emerged as a rising power in NCAA Division I hockey, finishing second in the CCHA in 2023-24 and third in 2024-25 — an impressive feat for a program just four years into its D1 journey.
The Northstar Knights congratulate Luke and his family on this exciting milestone and look forward to watching him make an impact at St. Thomas.
Gavin Erickson Tenders with Dauphin Kings in the MJHL
Alexandria, MN (May. 7, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The Northstar Knights are excited to announce that goaltender Gavin Erickson has signed a tender agreement with the Dauphin Kings of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL) for the 2025-26 season.
Erickson, a native of Fargo, North Dakota, has been a key piece to the Knights programs for the last 2 seasons, bringing in consistency and mental toughness between the pipes. During the 2024–25 season, the 2007-born netminder appeared in 24 games, posting a 1.92 GAA and a .916 SV%, along with 3 shutouts. Over the course of his time with Northstar, Erickson suited up for 52 games played — the 4th most in Northstar goaltending history. He posted a career record of 34-11-3, along with a .901 save percentage and a 2.21 GAA. His 34 career wins also tie him for 4th most in program history.
“Gavin's growth over the past two seasons has been a direct result of his work ethic, humility, and commitment to getting better every day", said 18U Coach, Joe Cullen. "The Dauphin Kings are getting not just a great goaltender, but a great teammate and person. We’re proud of Gavin and excited to see what he’ll accomplish at the next level.”
The Dauphin Kings have a strong tradition of developing players for the next level. Erickson’s signing adds a highly motivated, dependable goaltender to the Kings' pipeline as they continue to build a competitive roster.
“I am truly grateful to sign with the Dauphin Kings”, Erickson said. “The commitment I am making to the team stretches beyond the game itself. The team chemistry and positive culture was amazing to be apart of when interacting with the organization. The fanbase’s dedication to the team was amazing to see and I am excited to contribute to the atmosphere in Dauphin. I am confident that this experience will be mutually beneficial and rewarding, and I look forward to contributing to the team’s success in the years to come.”
Erickson becomes the latest Northstar Knight to advance to junior hockey, continuing the program’s mission of preparing student-athletes for success both on and off the ice and impacting the kingdom through hockey!
Congratulations, Gavin!
Jaxson Kaebel tenders with Oklahoma Warriors in the NAHL
Alexandria, MN (Apr. 8, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The NorthStar Knights are proud to announce that forward Jaxson Kaebel has signed a tender with the Oklahoma Warriors of the North American Hockey League.
Kaebel, a Tulsa, Oklahoma native, has been a key part of the Knights’ 18U Prep team since joining the program in 2022. Over the past three seasons, he has shown consistent development both on and off the ice, culminating in a breakout 2024–25 campaign in which he tallied 44 points. He finishes his Northstar career with an impressive 116 points (53 goals, 63 assists) in 148 games played.
“I’m excited to tender with such a great organization, the Oklahoma Warriors,” Kaebel said. “I am looking forward to this next step. I want to thank NorthStar Christian Academy, my coaches, family, and most importantly Jesus.”
18U Prep Head Coach Rylan Galiardi praised Kaebel’s growth and leadership throughout his time at NorthStar.
“We’re so proud of Jaxson to be able to pursue his hockey goals and to be able to do it close to home,” Galiardi said. “He made a big commitment coming to NorthStar and we’re excited for this opportunity, but more grateful for the growth that he has had these past 3 years. Oklahoma is getting an outstanding young man that will represent NorthStar well. He truly loves the Lord and will lead others to doing the same!”
With Kaebel’s signing, every forward on this season’s 18U Prep team who is not returning for their senior year has now signed a tender. His commitment marks the 47th NAHL tender in Knights program history.
The entire NorthStar Knights family congratulates Jaxson on this exciting next step in his hockey journey and looks forward to seeing all he accomplishes with the Oklahoma Warriors.
Reese Laubach helps Penn State reach its first ever Frozen Four appearance
Alexandria, MN (Apr. 7, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
Reese Laubach is gearing up to do something just about every young hockey player dreams of. On Thursday, Laubach and Penn State will compete in the program’s first ever Frozen Four in St. Louis, MO. The Nittany Lions will take on Boston University in the Semifinal at 7:30 CT on ESPN 2.
“It’s a super cool feeling and it's really special”, Laubach said of the opportunity. “Going to the Frozen Four is something that Penn State has never done before so it's pretty cool. That's why I came to Penn State and that was the goal of coming here and that's your dream since a kid is to play in a frozen four and play for a national championship it is super exciting.” If you were to ask Laubach back in the fall if this dream seemed attainable, the honest answer would be no. “Around New Years time, we were at a pretty low spot. We hadn't won a Big 10 game in a couple months.” Things started to turn the corner for Laubach and the Nittany Lions when they took down #1 Michigan State on January 11th, winning 3-2 in a shootout. The team would then go on to win 12 out of 14 games leading into the Big 10 playoffs. “We just got hot at the right time. The guys have a ton of confidence in each other and it comes from everyone buying in and everyone trusting each other and just doing our jobs day in and day out.” In the Big 10 playoffs, Penn State would knock off #11 Michigan, before falling to #10 Ohio State in overtime in the semifinals. Penn State was on the outside looking in to earn an at-large bid to get into the NCAA tournament, but just about every scenario went the right way to get them into the final 16. Continuing their momentum, Laubach and the Nittany Lions would defeat #3 seed Maine 5-1 and UConn 3-2 in overtime to win the Allentown, PA regional. Now the program gets to compete in its first ever Frozen Four with Laubach leading the way as one of the teams top scorers.
The San Jose, CA native has scored 15 goals and 15 assists in 34 games played for the sophomore forward. While Laubach has had lots of success on the ice, it hasn’t come without trials. “The first half of this season, I was pretty injured and we didn't win many games, but every athlete is going to go through ups and downs,” Laubach said. “It was really mentally tough on me but I think Juniors really prepared me to face the adversities that I have now in college.” It's no secret, competitive hockey can take people to the highest of highs and also the lowest of lows. Thankfully for Laubach, his faith has established a solid foundation that never wavers through the ebbs and flows of hockey. “I think it all starts away from hockey,” Laubach said. “It all starts with your relationship with Christ. My relationship with Christ is a huge part of why I am the person that I am today. For me, a huge priority of mine is staying in my devotions in the Bible every single day so I can get that “spiritual food” that I need.”
With Northstar entering its 8th season in existence, it's safe to say that Laubach would be considered a Pioneer for the program. “JO had reached out to me a few times before my 16U year and eventually I ended up telling him no and I actually was going to stay in San Jose for another year,” Luabach said of his journey to Northstar. “When COVID happened, Northstar kind of opened up the opportunity for me again and I was able to take the opportunity and that was probably the best decision of my life to go there.” In his 2 years with the program from 2020-22, Laubach lit up the record books, ranking first all time in points scored with 165, while also helping his teams win 2 NAPHL championships. Being one of 30 Knights players to play or commit to Division 1 NCAA programs, Laubach is a great example of a skillful player who leads off the ice. When asked what wisdom he’d give to future Knights, Laubach was quick to answer. “Take full advantage of your time at Northstar. Not just the hockey part, but take advantage of the people you have around you. With the coaches and staff there, you'll never be around a more godly, respectful, and loving group of people in your life. The coaches and the staff at Northstar truly love every single one of their players and truly want the best for them. They want to do everything they can to get the players to grow in their relationship with Christ.”
The Knights are excited to watch Laubach continue to live out his dream of pursuing a NCAA Division I Championship and are proud of the Godly young man he is today, impacting the hockey world for Jesus Christ.