Nicholas Mazza tenders with Winkler Flyers
Alexandria, MN (Feb. 20, 2026)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The NorthStar Knights are excited to share that defenseman Nicholas Mazza has tendered with the Winkler Flyers of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League. Mazza, a 5-foot-10, 170-pound right-shot defenseman from Woodbridge, Virginia, joined the Knights ahead of the 2025–26 season and has made an immediate impact on the 18U Prep blue line.
Through 45 games this season, Mazza has recorded 18 points (4G, 14A) while providing steady defensive play and contributing offensively from the back end.
“We are very excited for Nicholas Mazza for this opportunity,” said 18U Prep Head Coach Rylan Galiardi. “From the second Winkler looked into Nick, they were very excited about him and wanted to bring him in and put him in an impact position on their team to hopefully carry on what he's been doing here. He’s been a tremendous addition to the Knights, and we look forward to seeing him impact the Winkler locker room and beyond.”
“Signing with Winkler means a lot to me as a player, it is the next step in my journey,” Mazza said. “I’m very thankful to get this opportunity and excited to play at the next level and compete against good players.”
Mazza’s tender places him with a Winkler Flyers program that has established itself as one of the more competitive teams in the MJHL, providing a strong development environment as he prepares for the next step in his hockey journey.
The entire NorthStar Knights family congratulates Nick on earning his MJHL tender with Winkler. We look forward to watching him continue to grow, compete, and represent NorthStar with excellence at the next level.
Bennett Borgen Tenders with Neepawa Titans
Alexandria, MN (Feb. 10, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The NorthStar Knights are excited to share that forward Bennett Borgen has tendered with the Neepawa Titans of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League. Borgen joined the Knights program ahead of the 2024–25 season and has spent the past two years developing with the 18U Prep team, continuing to grow as a reliable and competitive forward.
Across his NorthStar career, Borgen has appeared in 95 games, recording 33 points (17G, 16A). He tallied 15 points (8G, 7A) in 52 games during the 2024–25 season and has followed that with 18 points (9G, 9A) through 43 games this season. His consistency, work ethic, and team-first approach have made him a steady presence within the Knights lineup.
Neepawa has become a familiar destination for NorthStar players in recent years. Borgen will join fellow Knight Cam Solem, who also tendered with the Titans this season, as well as former Knights defenseman Dylan McCann, who currently plays with the organization. The growing connection between the two programs reflects Neepawa’s commitment to developing players who compete with purpose and character.
“I’m very excited to join the Neepawa Titans organization,” Borgen said. “I want to thank them for the opportunity they’ve given me and I can’t wait to get started with them.”
18U Prep Head Coach Rylan Galiardi praised Borgen’s growth and character throughout his time at NorthStar. “We’re so excited and proud for Bennett to receive this commitment for next year”, Galiardi said. “Even before he got to NorthStar, when he and his family visited, they were all-in. As far as improvement from two years ago to today, I don’t know if there’s been a more improved player. One thing that’s always been consistent with Bennett is he has a big heart, he works his butt off, and he’s a team guy all day, and Neepawa is going to get that. They’re getting a player who continues to improve, is learning to become a force, plays fearless hockey, and is a phenomenal representative of what a NorthStar Knight looks like.”
The entire Knights family congratulates Bennett on earning his MJHL tender with Neepawa. 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.
NorthStar Named Top Christian Academy 2026 by Education Insider
Alexandria, MN (Feb. 7, 2026)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The NorthStar Knights are humbled and deeply grateful to share that NorthStar Christian Academy has been featured by Education Insider Magazine and nominated as a Top Christian Academy for 2026.
This recognition belongs to the entire NorthStar community. We are thankful for our student-athletes who commit daily to growth on and off the ice; for our families and billet families who faithfully support and open their homes to young men far from home; and for our Board of Directors whose leadership, wisdom, and stewardship continue to guide the academy with purpose and vision.
We are especially grateful for our staff and their families, who invest countless hours pouring into our student-athletes each day through mentorship, discipline, encouragement, and Christ-centered leadership. They reflect the Gospel not only through what they say, but through how they live and lead, often in ways that go unnoticed by the public. Our staff spends long hours at the rink and on the road, frequently away from their own families, in order to intentionally impact and shape the lives of young men from across the country each year. This level of commitment is only possible because of the incredible support of their spouses and families, who are fully bought into the mission of NorthStar and share in the sacrifices that come with it. It is not the sacrifice of one individual, but of entire families, and that shared commitment is what makes NorthStar more than a program, but truly one family.
Above all, we give thanks to the Lord for His continual provision, guidance, and faithfulness through every season of NorthStar’s journey. We acknowledge that none of this is possible apart from His hand at work, and that every opportunity, relationship, and step forward is ultimately the result of His grace. We are humbled by the ways He has used this community thus far, and we desire that all recognition and success point back to Him alone. As we look ahead, we do so with trust and anticipation, praying that the Lord would continue to use NorthStar to further His Kingdom and bring glory to His name in the years to come.
“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” — Colossians 3:17
Read the full article by Education Insider Magazine:
https://www.educationinsidermagazine.com/northstar-christian-academy
Knights Announce Summer Camp Schedule
Alexandria, MN (Jan. 30, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The NorthStar Knights are excited to announce its 2026 Summer Camp and Training Schedule, offering a full lineup of faith-based, high-performance hockey development opportunities for players from the Squirt level through Junior and College ranks.
From elite training for older players to foundational skill development for younger athletes, NorthStar’s summer environment delivers an unmatched combination of professional-level hockey, spiritual formation, and community. More than just ice time, each camp is designed to help athletes grow physically, mentally, and spiritually, surrounded by coaches and mentors who intentionally invest in both performance and character.
At the center of NorthStar’s summer offerings is the Summer Training Program, which runs from June 1 through August 14. This full-time development experience is designed for high school, junior, and college-aged male players training Monday through Friday in a professional environment that mirrors the structure of higher-level hockey. Each week includes early-morning off-ice training led by a full-time strength specialist, followed by daily on-ice sessions with the Knights coaching staff. Players also receive full access to NorthStar’s training resources, including the shooting bay, weight room, cold tub, sauna, and Knights locker room, creating a complete and immersive development experience.
The Power Skating Camp, led by Mark Bassen, will be held on Tuesdays (June 4, 11, 18 and July 9, 16, 30) and is open to players from 10U through high school. Players will be divided into two training groups based on age. Group 1, made up of Bantam/U15 and high school players, will skate from 3:00 - 4:00 PM, while Group 2, consisting of Squirt, Pee Wee, 10U, and 12U players, will skate from 4:30 - 5:30 PM. The camp focuses on developing elite skating mechanics through edge work, crossovers, transitions, and overspeed training, and each training day is anchored by chapel and small-group devotionals to ensure spiritual growth remains central to the experience.
NorthStar’s Squirt and Mite Camp, running June 9 - 11, provides a fun, high-energy introduction to the game for boys and girls. Players participate in on-ice sessions, dryland training, and recreational activities while also engaging in chapel and small-group discipleship. Every camper receives a Bible, T-shirt, and jersey, reinforcing that this experience is about far more than hockey alone.
The Knights Development Camp, held June 22 - 24, is designed to give prospective student-athletes an inside look at life within the Knights program. This invite-only, overnight experience is open to current 16U Knights players as well as select 2010 - 2012 birth-year athletes who are seriously interested in attending NorthStar in the future. Participants take part in on-ice training, strength sessions, video work, team-building activities, and chapels led by coaches and mentors, providing a true picture of what it means to be a Knight.
The academy will also host its Skills and Checking Camp from July 13 - 15, designed to meet players where they are in their physical and competitive development. Older boys in the 2010 - 2013 birth years train in a checking division that teaches proper contact, positioning, and physical play in a safe and structured environment. Younger players from 2014 - 2018, both boys and girls, participate in a non-checking division that emphasizes skating, puck skills, and confidence. Both groups experience on-ice training, dryland workouts, recreational activities, and daily chapels and devotionals, with each player receiving a Bible, T-shirt, and jersey.
Female athletes will have their own dedicated development opportunity through the Knights Girls Camp, held July 28 - 29 and open to players from 10U through high school. The camp combines multiple on-ice sessions, dryland training, and intentional spiritual programming designed to help young women grow in their game and in their faith.
The academy will host its Goalie Camp from July 22 – 24, providing specialized, position-specific development for goaltenders. Led by Keserich Goaltending, the camp focuses on technical skill development, athletic movement, and mental preparation in a structured and supportive environment. By partnering with an experienced goalie training organization, NorthStar is able to deliver high-level instruction while maintaining the academy’s Christ-centered culture throughout the camp experience. Goaltenders will take part in on-ice training, goalie-specific conditioning, specialty training, mental and video sessions, and competitive goalie-focused activities.
Together, these camps form a summer experience rooted in NorthStar Christian Academy’s commitment to developing young athletes to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ, built on a foundation of biblical truth, athletic excellence, and academic advancement. Through elite training and daily spiritual formation, NorthStar creates an environment where young men and women grow not only in their sport, but in their faith, discipline, and purpose.
Christian Leung tenders with Langley Rivermen
Alexandria, MN (Jan. 2, 2026)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The NorthStar Knights are excited to announce that forward Christian Leung has tendered with the Langley Rivermen of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL). A native of Renton, Washington, Leung joined NorthStar in 2023–24 and has been a foundational leader within the program ever since. He served as Captain of the 16U Knights last season and is currently an Assistant Captain for the 18U Prep team.
Leung has enjoyed a highly productive NorthStar career across three seasons. He recorded 19 points (4G, 15A) in 50 games during the 2023–24 campaign, followed by a breakout year in 2024–25 with 40 points (14G, 26A) in 55 games. This season with the 18U Prep Knights, he has continued his strong play, posting 26 points (8G, 18A) through 35 games. Beyond the numbers, Leung is widely respected for his maturity, leadership, work ethic, and the way he carries himself on and off the ice. “Christian is a daily professional already at a young age”, said 18U Prep Head Coach Rylan Galiardi. “Langley is getting a player that impacts the game positively for his team every shift. More importantly, we know Christian will exemplify what a NorthStar Knight looks like and be a light for Jesus in western Canada.”
Langley has been a strong program in the BCHL, reaching the postseason in three of the last four seasons, providing Leung with a competitive and proven development environment as he prepares for the next level of his hockey journey.
“I am incredibly grateful and thankful for the opportunity Langley is giving me,” Leung said. “I want to thank God, my father, my family, my friends, and my coaches for all helping me achieve this. I am very excited to play in this league and grow both on and off the ice.”
The entire NorthStar Knights family congratulates Christian on earning his BCHL tender with Langley and we look forward to watching him continue to grow and represent NorthStar with excellence at the next level.
Roy Messick tenders with Kenai River Brown Bears
Alexandria, MN (Dec. 23, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The NorthStar Knights are excited to share that defenseman Roy Messick has tendered with the Kenai River Brown Bears of the North American Hockey League. Messick, a Fort Myers, Florida native, joined the Knights ahead of the 2025–26 season and has quickly established himself as a reliable two-way presence on the blue line.
This season, Messick has appeared in 32 games, recording 6 goals and 15 assists for 21 points while logging important minutes in all situations. His skating ability and compete level have stood out throughout the year, allowing him to contribute offensively while remaining dependable defensively.
“We are excited for Roy to receive this opportunity from Kenai,” said 18U Prep Head Coach Rylan Galiardi. “Their coach has done a lot of research and put a lot of time and effort into securing this tender with Roy. They were looking for a player that is an exceptional skater and competes, and Roy certainly does those two things. He’s been an ‘all-in’ NorthStar guy since he committed here this summer, and we know he’s going to do a great job there as he continues to develop and put himself in a position to be an impact player, all while continuing to represent NorthStar and the cross up in Alaska.”
“I’m excited and grateful for this opportunity with Kenai,” Messick said. “I’d like to thank the coaching staff for trusting in me.”
The entire NorthStar Knights family congratulates Roy on earning his tender with the Brown Bears. His commitment and growth have been evident since day one, and we look forward to watching him take this next step in his hockey journey.
Cam Solem tenders with Neepawa Titans
Alexandria, MN (Dec. 19, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The NorthStar Knights are excited to share that forward Cam Solem has tendered with the Neepawa Titans of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL). Solem, a Duluth, Minnesota native, joined the NorthStar program during the 2023–24 season and has spent the past three years developing within the Knights organization at both the 16U and 18U levels.
This season, Solem has emerged as one of the Knights’ most productive forwards, ranking third on the team in scoring with 28 points (9G, 19A) in 33 games played. Across his NorthStar career, he has totaled 67 points (20G, 47A) while continuing to grow into a reliable, high-motor offensive contributor.
“We are very excited for Cam,” said 18U Prep Head Coach Rylan Galiardi. “He’s shown true perseverance and development over the last three years, and we couldn’t be more proud of how far he’s come. We expect him to be a leader in Neepawa because of how he operates off the ice. His speed and playmaking are going to make him an influential offensive player as well. Cam has really grown in his faith and in every area of his life, and we’re excited to see him represent NorthStar and Jesus at the next level.”
Neepawa Titans Head Coach Ken Pearson also praised Solem’s progression and character. “Cam showed very well at training camp and was someone we wanted to continue to recruit when he went back to NorthStar,” Pearson said. “His development has been very good, and he is both a person and a player that we are very happy to have commit to our program.”
“I’m grateful for Neepawa giving me this opportunity,” Solem said. “I’m excited to get to work, continue developing my game, and be part of their organization.”
The entire NorthStar Knights family congratulates Cam on earning this opportunity in Neepawa and we look forward to watching him take this next step in his hockey journey!
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!