Caleb Elfering commits to Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)
Alexandria, MN (Oct. 15, 2024)
For more information, contact: Cody Wang, Director of Hockey Operations and Media Relations [email protected]
NorthStar Knights Alumni, Caleb Elfering, has committed to Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). Elfering played for the Knights for three seasons 2020-2021 (16U), 2021-2022 (18U), and 2022-2023 (18U). During his time as a Knight Caleb tallied 161 points (67 goals, 94 assists). Caleb’s 94 career assists currently make him the all-time leader in that category for the Knights. Caleb is currently with the Chilliwack Chiefs in the BCHL, and also played with them in the 2023-2024 season posting 32 points (13 goals, 19 assists) during the season. The Richland, WA native played an instrumental role for the Knights 18U teams during 21-22 and 22-23 seasons, in which both Knights teams finished in the top 5 of the final national rankings.
Caleb’s offensive productivity played an instrumental role for the Knights 18U teams during the 21-22 and 22-23 seasons in which the Knights finished both seasons ranked in the top 5 nationally. “We are excited for Caleb and his college commitment. He was a great NorthStar Knight both on the ice and more importantly off the ice during his time at NorthStar. He continued to visit during the summer for our summer training and we have been able to watch his maturation. We expect him to continue his success on the ice at RIT and know he will make an impact” said 18U coach Rylan Galiardi.
During Caleb’s 3-year stint at NorthStar he credits the coaching staff, his teammates, and the overall atmosphere in playing a huge role in where he is at today. “My journey at NorthStar was great! It really helped me grow a lot not only in hockey but as a person. I grew a ton on the ice with the coaching and development we had, and with the off-ice workouts and twice a day skates. Not only growing my game from the coaches but also from my teammates which turned into a brotherhood. They had the same goals and wanted to get better day in and day out.”
Lincoln Kuehne Commits to Colorado College
Alexandria, MN (Aug. 8, 2024)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations and Media Relations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
Northstar Knights Alumni, Lincoln Kuehne, has committed to Colorado College. Kuehne played for the Knights during the 2022-23 season where he scored 10 goals and 18 assists and helped anchor a defense that held opponents to 2.62 goals per game. His defensive play helped his 16U team earn a 37-14-1 record. The West Fargo, ND native brings a blend of size (6-1, 180 lbs), skill and physicality to his game. In March of 2023 Kuehne earned an invite to the US NTDP evaluation camp and was selected as one of the 24 players for the U17 team. "Lincoln has such a love for the game, and he's committed to doing whatever it takes to get better," said 16U coach Dallas Steward. "The biggest thing with Lincoln is his skating ability, with and without the puck, and he wants to be involved in the offense. But at the same time, he's very competitive defensively. When he plays simple, he's really effective and efficient, and he's a tough kid to play against. He's smart defensively, and he's got skill and a big shot on the offensive side of the game.”
In 53 games played for the NTDP, Kuehne scored 2 goals and 11 assists as one of the youngest players on the team and will look to make an even bigger impact this coming season on the U18 team. Kuehne is slated to attend Colorado College for the 2025-26 season, the same season he will be eligible for the NHL draft. “I’m very proud and honored to announce my commitment to play division 1 hockey and further my academics at Colorado College,” Kuehne posted on social media. “First off I would like to thank God, family, friends, coaches, and teammates and everyone else who has helped me along the way.” Colorado College posted a record of 21-13-3 and finished #15 overall in NCAA D1 standings.
Kuehne becomes the 4th player on the 2022-23 16U Knights team to make his college commitment, joining Lincoln Hjelm (University of Nebraska-Omaha), Bode Laylin (University of St. Thomas) and Carter Sanderson (University of North Dakota). "Lincoln Keuhne has such a professional approach and a big heart," Steward added. "His future in hockey is bright. Colorado College is getting a special person and one of the most dedicated players I’ve ever been able to coach."
The Knights are excited to watch Kuehne continue his hockey career at the NTDP, Colorado College and beyond!
Carter Sanderson Commits to University of North Dakota
Alexandria, MN (Aug. 3, 2024)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations and Media Relations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
Northstar Knights alumni, Carter Sanderson, has committed to the University of North Dakota. “I am honored to announce my commitment to play Division 1 hockey and further my academic career at the University of North Dakota”, Sanderson shared on social media. “I would like to thank my parents for their unwavering support. I would also like to thank the South Dakota hockey community, the Sioux Falls Power program, my teammates and coaches for their efforts, dedication and belief in me.” North Dakota is one of the premier and most storied programs in college hockey. The program has made over 30 appearances in the NCAA tournament, appeared in the frozen four 22 times, and has won 8 NCAA Division I Championships. They have also achieved 15 WCHA Regular season Championships, 5 NCHC Regular season Championships, and 12 Conference Tournament championships.
Sanderson joined the 16U Knights during the 2022-23 season from Pierre, SD and quickly became an impact player as an underager. In 55 games played, the 2007 forward scored 35 points (12 G, 23 A). Sanderson built on his success this past season as he racked up 69 points (36 G, 37 A) for the 16U AAA Sioux Falls Power, which generated a lot of interest from USHL scouts and coaches. Sanderson was selected 51st overall 51st overall by the Muskegon Lumberjacks in Phase 2 of the 2024 USHL draft. “Carter is a great young man who has natural abilities as a leader and his development over the last 2 years as a skilled power forward has been amazing to watch”, said Knights 16U Head Coach, Dallas Steward. “It’s great to see him achieve his commitment to UND!” Sanderson
Bode Laylin Commits to University of St. Thomas
Alexandria, MN (Aug. 2, 2024)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations and Media Relations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
Northstar Knights Alumni, Bode Laylin, has committed to University of St. Thomas. Laylin is no stranger to the Tommies program. Laylin’s father, Cory, is a highly respected coach in college hockey and has been an assistant coach for St. Thomas since the 2021-22 season. Bode’s older brothers Luc (Jr.) and Casy (Fr.) are also on the team. “I am excited to play for the University of St. Thomas because of the culture they are building and the coaching staff”, said (Bode) Laylin. “I also love that they have a beautiful campus and will also be in one of the best conferences in college hockey that is known for getting players past college. Another dealbreaker is St. Thomas’s new rink they are building that will be one of the nicest rinks in college hockey.” The Tommies ranked 2nd in the CCHA conference last season and the school recently announced that they will be moving to the NCHC conference in 2026-27, which is the first season they’ll be eligible to qualify for the NCAA tournament. The new $183.4 million on-campus facility will host over 4,000 hockey and basketball fans.
Laylin played for the Knights from 2022-2024 and has been one of the most highly touted players to come through the program. “Bode is a great player who will have a long career in hockey as he continues to work at his game,” said 16U Head Coach, Dallas Steward. “He’s very gifted, his character and quiet strength speak loud to everyone who knows him.” In the 2022-23 season, Laylin ranked 2nd on the Knights defenseman in points per game at 0.55, scoring 21 points (2 G, 19 A) in only 38 games played, due to two big injuries during the season. Even with the injury riddled season, Laylin’s potential caught the eyes of the USHL scouts as he was selected 79th overall in the 2023 Phase 1 USHL draft by the Tri City Storm. “Bode’s perseverance showed in recovering from his injuries last season”, Steward said. “As the captain of this year’s 16U team, he led a great group of players and getting drafted (in the USHL) and committing to St. Thomas proved to be a great reward. Laylin used the offseason to recover and grow as he put on 10 lbs of muscle heading into the 2023-24 season. In 49 games played, Laylin produced 43 points (10 G, 33A) while also leading the team in Power Play Points with 20 (6 G, 14 A). Laylin’s strong play earned him the opportunity to play with the Storm during their playoff run as he suited up for the final 9 regular season games and 6 playoff games. The Albertville, MN native will join the Storm full time next season, joining former 16U Coach, Mark Abalan, who will be the new Head Coach of the Storm.
“I would like to thank God for the gifts and abilities he has given me to play such an amazing game”, said Laylin. “I also would like to thank all the coaches and staff pushing me everyday to become a better player and person!” The Knights look forward to watching Bode continue his hockey career in Tri City and at St. Thomas! You can catch Laylin and the Storm in action when they open up their 2024-25 regular season against the Dubuque Fighting Saints on September 27th.
Knights Alumni, Bauer Berry and Austin Moline Selected in the 2024 NHL Draft
Alexandria, MN (Jul. 1, 2024)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations and Media Relations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
Northstar knights alumni, Bauer Berry and Austin Moline, were drafted into the NHL on June 29th. With the selection of Berry and Moline, the Knights now have 4 alumni who have been drafted in the NHL as they join Reese Laubach (San Jose Sharks, 2022) and Ben Strinden (Nashville Predators, 2022).
Berry was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in the 7th round 218th overall. The Grand Forks, ND native played for the Knights from 2021-2023 suiting up with the 16U AAA team and 18U Prep team. “Having Bauer just a year removed from NorthStar and having been drafted in the NHL is a testament to his potential and how much he not only grew in his two years here but in his last season with Muskegon,” said NorthStar Knights 18U Prep Head Coach, Rylan Galiardi.
During the 2021-22 season, Berry made an immediate impact as a two-way shutdown defenseman. In 51 games played, he accumulated 33 points (9 G, 24 A) and then followed his steady performance up the following season with 38 points (9 G, 29 A) in 52 games played. Berry led defenseman in points as well as led the team in Power Play Assists with 12. “Bauer has immense hockey sense and if you look at Stanley cup winners, they’re doing it year after year with big smart D,” Galiardi said. “He has a lot more skill than he showed last year in his rookie year in the USHL and expect him to show that more this season.”
“I’m looking forward to getting to Edmonton this week and seeing how they run their organization and just meeting other guys who are a part of the organization.” Berry said. “I’d like to thank all my past Coaches for helping me get to this point and my teammates for making me better everyday and everyone else that supported me along the way.” Berry committed to the University of St. Thomas on May 20th and will play another 1 - 2 seasons in Muskegon before suiting up with the Tommies.
Austin Moline was drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers in the 7th round 205th overall. The Las Vegas, NV native played for the 16U Knights for the 2020-21 season. In 28 games played, the defenseman put up 18 points (4 G, 14 A). “It’s really fun to see a young man with so much potential when he was here getting recognized as a NHL prospect,” Galiardi said. “He was a skinny forward when he was here and now he’s a big strong offensive D man getting drafted in the NHL.” Now, Moline stands at 6-4, 195 lbs and brings physicality to the lineup while also jumping into the rush to create offense.
From 2021-2024 Moline played for Shattuck St. Mary’s where he accumulated 100 points (16 G, 84 A) in 165 games played. With the Draft taking place in Moline’s home town, the moment was extra special for him. “It feels great to represent the city,” Moline said in an interview with Las Vegas news network KTNV. “I’m sure in the next 5-10 years there’s going to be a lot of great players that come out of here too, so I can’t wait to watch that.” Moline is committed to Northern Michigan University and is tendered to play for the Brooks Bandits of the BCHL next year.
“Most importantly, our program is more interested in these players growing in their faith and character,” Galiardi added. “We’re excited to see these young men impact their dressing rooms, communities and the hockey world.”
Knights Hire Mark Bassen to coaching staff
Alexandria, MN (Jul. 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 excited to announce Mark Bassen to its 2024-25 coaching staff and program.
“Mark brings great experience to our coaching team and ultimately desires to train godly men in hockey and life, which is our heartbeat at the academy,” Interim Director Dallas Steward said.
Born into a hockey family in Calgary, Canada, Mark followed in the footsteps of his father Hank, and brother Bob who both played in the NHL. Beginning his hockey journey, he played 2 years junior in the WHL signing his first Pro contract with the Philadelphia Flyers. He then embarked on a 12-year professional career within the AHL, IHL, Canadian National Team, and Germany’s DEL. After retiring he went to Bible school at Lincoln Christian College in Illinois. He then founded and served as pastor of Crosswalk Chapel in Pekin, Illinois for 20 fulfilling years. Within the last 5 years Mark’s family moved to Germany and worked professionally inside hockey around Scheveningen of the DEL. While there, he received international experience coaching levels of junior and U17 hockey teams. Over the last 30 years Mark has coached hockey at every level from Mite to Junior specializing in skating and edge work. Mark's father had said in hockey, “skating is the most important part”. While his mother has said in life “Jesus is the most important part”. Mark agrees and shares, “They both were so right, after all these years it’s clear hockey and Jesus can really go together. I’m so grateful for the new opportunity in Alexandria and can’t wait to serve at NorthStar.” Mark’s amazing family include his wife, Laura and their 5 children Boaz, Alex, Bailey, Charlie, and Emma with their Golden retriever Hank and will be relocating to Alexandria, MN this summer.
Mark Abalan announced as Head Coach of the Tri-City Storm in the USHL
Alexandria, MN (May. 31, 2024)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations and Media Relations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
Northstar Knights 16U Coach, Mark Abalan, has been announced as the new Head Coach of the Tri City Storm of the USHL. The Storm are located in Kearney, NE and have made the playoffs for 7 consecutive seasons, winning the USHL’s Anderson Cup in 2019 & 2022 and the Clark Cup Championship in 2016. “I am excited for the opportunity that lies ahead to coach the Tri City Storm and I look forward to leading and developing young men to become better hockey players at the USHL level,” Abalan said. “I’m grateful for my time here at NorthStar and blessed by the many amazing friendships that my family and I have made.”
Abalan will take over a team that has a strong track record of producing collegiate and NHL talent, including Jaden Schwartz, Phoenix Copley, and Blake Coleman. Abalan will also inherit 2 Northstar Knights, Bode Laylin and Hunter Rudolph, who are in the Storm’s player system.
"Through the interview process, we had several quality options and strong candidates for the position,” Tri-City General Manager said in the team’s press release . “Ultimately, we were extremely impressed with Coach Abalan's track record, experience, communication skills, and professionalism. We felt these attributes would make for an outstanding addition to our staff, and provide our players with a quality teacher and leader as we look to next season and the future. We are thrilled to bring in a coach with Mark's experience and familiarity with the USHL. He has a passion for development, and player improvement, and a history of being able to communicate with elite athletes in this age range. We proudly welcome him to Kearney."
The Duluth, MN native is no stranger to the USHL. Prior to coming to Northstar in 2021, Abalan coached 9 total seasons in the USHL with 8 seasons as an Assistant Coach with the Sioux City Musketeers and 1 season as the Head Coach with the Chicago Steel. Additionally, Abalan represented the United States as an Assistant Coach at the World Junior A Championships on 3 different occasions. His teams won the gold medal in 2013 and 2018 and a bronze medal in 2019.
“We are very happy for Mark to become the head coach for the Tri-city Storm in the USHL” said Northstar Interim Director, Dallas Steward. “Mark’s influence and leadership will greatly impact the Storm organization. We are thankful for Mark’s 3 years at Northstar, developing talented young men and serving the Lord.”
The 2024-25 USHL schedule has not been officially released yet but games will begin in late September.
Bauer Berry Commits to University of St. Thomas
Alexandria, MN (May. 20, 2024)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations and Media Relations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
Northstar Knights alumni, Bauer Berry, has announced his commitment to University of St. Thomas last week. The Tommies are located in the suburbs of Minneapolis and have been a Division 1 program since the fall of 2021. The Tommies ranked 2nd in the CCHA conference last season and recently announced that they will be moving to the NCHC conference in 2026-27, which is the first season they’ll be eligible to qualify for the NCAA tournament. The school is currently constructing a $183.4 million on-campus facility to host over 4,000 hockey and basketball fans. “We’re super excited to add Bauer to the Tommie Family”, said St. Thomas Assistant Coach, Cory Laylin. “He’s an excellent all-around defenseman with size, skill and hockey sense. His character, work ethic and determination fits well with our culture and what we’re building here at St. Thomas.”
Berry played for the Knights from 2021 - 2023 totaling 71 points (18G, 53A) in 103 games played for both the 16U and 18U teams. Berry’s 71 points rank him in 5th place in points among defensemen in the Knights History. “We’re so excited and proud of Bauer,” said Knights Hockey Director and 18U Prep Head Coach, Rylan Galiardi. “He was a great player during his time here at NorthStar and we’re confident he will be a great defenseman for St. Thomas in the NCHC.”
After his time at Northstar, Berry moved on to the Muskegon Lumberjacks of the USHL who drafted Berry back in 2021 with the 194th overall pick. In 59 games played this season for the Lumberjacks, the Grand Forks, ND native scored 14 points (1G, 13A). "I thought I had a good year and my ice time increased over the season”, Berry said when he reflected on this past season. “I accepted my role with our skilled guys. I moved into that position and did well with that. I'm excited to see my future.” Berry is also ranked No. 154 among North American skaters in the final NHL Central Scouting Bureau's draft rankings which is set for June 28 - 29 in Las Vegas. “We believe he (Berry) has the type of hockey sense that is very rare and should make him a NHL draft pick,” Galiardi added. “Most importantly, Bauer grew as a young man here and I know he has continued to pursue the Lord during his time in Muskegon.”
The Knights want to congratulate Bauer on his commitment and are excited to watch his continued growth and pursuit of his dream of playing collegiate hockey at a high level.
5 Knights Drafted in 2024 USHL Draft
Alexandria, MN (May. 17, 2024)
For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations & Media Relations (615) 830-1113, [email protected]
Last week, the Northstar Knights saw 3 alumni, and 2 current players drafted in the 2024 USHL draft. The USHL Draft takes place during the first week of May each year and is completed in two “Phases”. Phase I of the Draft is ten rounds of “Futures” age players only, which are U-17 players for next year’s season (2008 birth year players only for the 2024 Draft). Phase II of the Draft will take place the following day and this draft is open to players of all ages eligible to play junior hockey (Ages 16-20) and are not currently protected by another USHL team. “We are very excited for the players that were drafted in both phases of this year’s USHL draft” said Hockey Director and 18U Prep Head Coach, Rylan Galiardi. “It is great for them to be recognized for their talent but because of the character of these young men, we know they will represent NorthStar well both on the ice and off.”
Hunter Rudolph was the lone Knight drafted in Phase 1 as he went to the Tri City Storm in the 7th round, 100th overall. The West Fargo, ND native joins current Knight, Bode Laylin, who have their rights owned by Tri City. Rudolph joined the 16U Knights in 2023 and was one of 5 underage players on the team this season. His age, however, was not a hindrance as he led the entire team in scoring with 57 points (27G, 30A) in 51 games played.
The Knights saw 4 players selected in Phase 2 of the draft. Alumni Max Weilandt, Carter Sanderson and Austin Moline were all selected within 5 picks of each other in the 4th round with Zaide Penner rounding out the group in the 20th round.
Max Weilandt was selected 48th overall by the Des Moines Buccaneers. Weilandt joined the 16U Knights from Northbrook, IL for the 2021-22 season. Although he only played 1 season in the Knights program, Weilandt ranks #1 in Knights history in GAA (1.48) and SV% (.935). Weilandt spent this past season with the St. Cloud Norsemen in the NAHL where he posted a record of 13-9-5 to go along with 2.92 GAA and .910 SV% in 32 games played.
Carter Sanderson was selected 51st overall by the Muskegon Lumberjacks. The Pierre, SD native played for the 16U Knights during the 2022-23 season. Like Rudolph, Sanderson also had an impactful season as an underager, scoring 35 points (12G, 23A) in 55 games played. This past season, Sanderson racked up 69 points (36G, 37A) for the 16U AAA Sioux Falls Power. Sanderson will bring a fantastic work ethic and leadership to the Lumberjacks organization.
Austin Moline was selected 52nd overall by the Madison Capitols. Moline suited up for the 16U Knights for the 2020-21 season where he scored 18 points (4G, 14A) in 28 games played as a part of a stellar blueline for the Knights. Moline then played the last 3 seasons in the Shattuck St. Mary’s program totaling over 150 games played and 100 points. Standing at 6’4, 195-pounds the Las Vegas, NV product is a tough, physical presence that opposing forwards hate to play against. Moline also has his junior rights owned by the Brooks Bandits of the BCHL and is currently committed to play collegiately at Northern Michigan University.
Zaide Penner was selected 302nd overall by the Fargo Force. Penner joined the 16U Knights from Fargo, ND and will have the chance to eventually suit up for his hometown team. Penner was the only underage defenseman for the Knights team this season and fit right into a top 4 role and Power Play unit. In 51 games played, the 5-10, 150-pound defenseman scored 23 points (3G, 20A) with 10 of his points coming on the Power Play. Penner was also drafted 200th overall by the Spokane Chiefs in the 2023 WHL draft last summer.
“It will be both fun and a privilege to continue to help foster the growth of the returning drafted players and the other returning players next season”, Galiardi Added. “We have an exciting mix of both returning and incoming players as we look forward to the 24-25 season.” Stay tuned in the next couple weeks for our player signings for the 2024-25 season.