Knights 18U Prep close out another record breaking year
Alexandria, MN (Mar. 25, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The Northstar Knights 18U Prep team capped off another successful and record breaking season, finishing #8 overall in the national rankings with a record of 43-5-4. The team started their first 24 games before suffering a regulation loss in the NEPACK showcase in late November. The Knights would rebound and rattle off 15 wins in a row en route to winning the ESE Top 20 challenge in Detroit, MI. “To go the first 40 games with only 1 regulation loss is truly remarkable but only tells part of the story of their competitiveness, discipline and honor”, said 18U Prep Head Coach, Rylan Galiardi. The team scored an astounding 4.73 goals per game while only surrendering 2.13 goals against per game. Also aiding in the team’s success was a potent Power Play (30%) and Penalty Kill (85%).
In net, the Knights were led by one of the best goaltending tandems in all of AAA hockey this season. Gavin Erickson posted a record of 20-2-1 (3 shutouts) in 24 games played to go along with a GAA of 1.92 and a SV% of .916. Brady Krey, a BCHL tender with the Cranbrook Bucks, went 23-4-2 (4 shutouts) in 30 games played. Krey’s 23 wins this season rank 3rd all time in Knights single season history and his career .914 SV% ranks 5th in Knights history.
The Defensive unit was led by returning players Darik Olson and William Bisset along with last year’s 16U Knights, Deegan Hoffbauer (Minnesota Wilderness, NAHL), Elias Schutt and Jonathan Gross. Newcomers, Hunter Carson and Cooper Stockdale also added immense value throughout the season. Olson (Chilliwack Chiefs, BCHL) led the Knights defenseman with 51 points (17G, 34A) in 52 games played. Hoffbauer and Bisset both contributed significantly to the Knights Power play units.
Up front, the 18U Prep Team had no returning forwards, but saw major impacts from last year’s 16U team. Mason Grinnell (St. Cloud Norsemen, NAHL), Hudson Routh (Austin Bruins, NAHL), Jaxson Kaebel, Brieg Hazelwood, Isaac Thompson, Connor Maruska and Cam Solem led the way while also bringing in fresh talent in Ian Christian (Anchorage Wolverines, NAHL), Quayden Silcox, Luke McPherson (Odessa Jackalopes, NAHL), Will Doherty and Bennett Borgen. Grinnell terrorized opposing goaltenders this season, racking up 48 goals which ranked 2nd in Northstar Knights season history. 3 short of current Penn State star forward Reece Laubach’s 51 goals. Ian Christian (26G, 37A), Hudson Routh (16G, 35A) and Will Doherty (18G, 23A) each produced at over a point per game.
“It was apparent from the start that not only were they extremely hard to play against but also had a hunger to learn in chapel, push themselves to be great in the gym with our full time strength coach Jack and pursued excellence every practice”, Galiardi added. “As students, they excelled in the classroom and will continue to thrive at school while the boys stay and train at NorthStar until May.” This week, the 18U Knights will welcome over 70 families from across the United States as they visit for Prospect Camp. As they conclude the last 2 months of the season, the team will have many opportunities for community engagement, team bonding and enhanced discipleship. “We are thankful to walk with this group daily and couldn’t be more proud of them,” Galiardi concluded. “Their love and care of Northstar and each other was evident throughout the entire season.”
16U Knights Conclude Historic 2024-25 Season
Alexandria, MN (Mar. 14, 2025)
For more information, contact: [email protected]
The Northstar Knights 16U AAA team's season came to a close last weekend. The team capped off another tremendous year compiling a record of 38-13-3-1 and earning wins against some of the top teams in the country against #14 Bishop Kearney, #26 Culver, #16 Sioux Falls Power and tying #1 Shattuck St. Mary’s. Overall the team produced an astounding 266 goals for, which is the record for team goals in a season for the 16U AAA team. The previous record was held by the 2022-23 who scored 233 goals. Adding to the Knights success was a lethal power play, which produced at 30% over the course of the season. The team also contributed to a 10-game win streak spanning from December through February which saw the team outscore their opponents 56-18. “I am very proud of how our team played and came together throughout the season”, said 16U AAA Head Coach, Dallas Steward. “We had our season best 10-game winning streak and won the 6-game ESE Top 20 tournament”.
The Knights were led between the pipes by the trio of Oliver Bryan, Aidan Finn and Parker Roers who all produced notable wins throughout the season. On the blueline, the team had a well rounded group that featured Zaide Penner, Hayden Reierson, Colton Waters, Joey Habbe, Kingston King and Reece Clayton. Penner, a Fargo Force draft pick, finished the year with 44 points (7G, 37A) in 53 games played.
The forward group’s returning players made significant strides in their development in Hunter Rudolph, Kannon Taylor, Sam Horstman and Christian Leung. With the veteran leadership coupled with new impact players, the Knights were dominant in the offensive zone. New talent added were Jack Larkin, Isaac Davis, Kaedyn Kopp, Ben Haaland, Matyas Fischer, Blake Ford, Sam Winter and Alex Gold. Rudolph lit up the stat sheets this season with 90 points (45G, 45A) in 52 games played. Rudolph’s strong season saw him commit to NCAA powerhouse, St. Cloud State University. Forwards who also eclipsed a point-per-game this season were Jack Larkin (63), Kannon Taylor (59) and Isaac Davis (57).
While the 16U Knights had a lot of on-ice success the team also developed immensely off the ice. The team learned 4 big segments in chapel, learning about justification by faith, the Holy Spirit, the Gospel of Luke and the book of Galatians. The team also saw multiple players publicly profess their faith through baptism in March. “The 24-25 northstar season was very successful as all of the players developed coming together achieving excellence on and off the ice”, Steward concluded. Although the game season has wrapped up, the Knights still have plenty to look forward to before the school year finishes with daily on ice skill development and wight training, service projects, in-depth discipleship time and team bonding activities.
Hudson Routh tenders with the Austin Bruins
Alexandria, MN (Nov. 14, 2024)
For more information, contact: Cody Wang, Director of Hockey Operations, [email protected]
NorthStar Knights 18U Prep forward, Hudson Routh, has tendered with the Austin Bruins of the NAHL. The West Fargo, ND native joined the Knights program last season as a member of the 16U team where he produced 19 goals and 29 assists. Hudson’s performance on the 16U team during the 23-24 season springboarded him to a successful start so far this season with the Knights prep team where he has produced 8 goals and 21 assists through 20 games. 18U coach Rylan Galiardi said of Routh “We’re excited for Hudson on his choice to tender with the Austin Bruins. Even though he isn’t the biggest guy, he plays with a huge heart and has been an awesome leader for us. He has been a playmaker this year offensively, but I can’t imagine a harder player to play against.”
The Knights prep team still remains undefeated in regulation play this season and hosts the Omaha Mastery this weekend for a 2-game series.
Grinnell and Christian sign NAHL tenders
Alexandria, MN (Nov. 7, 2024)
For more information, contact: Cody Wang, Director of Hockey Operations @ [email protected]
NorthStar Knights 18U Prep players, Mason Grinnell and Ian Christian have signed tenders with NAHL teams. A tender is a contract that a player signs announcing his intentions to play for that particular NAHL team. Once a player signs a tender with an NAHL team, his playing rights belong to that team within the NAHL and he may not be recruited by any other NAHL team. Each team is granted 10 tenders which became active on November 1st. Grinnell tendered with the St. Cloud Norsemen, and Christian tendered with the Anchorage Wolverines.
Grinnell, a Victoria MN native, has fueled the Knights to a hot start in the 24-25 season, his 26 goals and 45 points are tops on the Knights through 19 games. In addition, Mason also posted 27 goals and 20 assists as a member of the 2023-2024 16U Knights team. Christian, from Duluth MN, has also played a key role in the 17-0-2 start for the 18U Knights during the 24-25 season by posting 13 goals and 18 assists which put him second on the team in points.
“Mason has a gift; he can do the hardest thing in hockey and that is score. But Mason has taken huge strides since he came to NorthStar to grow as a complete player and his overall game this year has been really strong without the puck. We are excited that St. Cloud is getting a talented hockey player but also thankful that he will be close as we continue to watch him grow as a young man.” Said NorthStar Hockey Director and 18U coach Rylan Galiardi. Galiardi also said “Since Ian has come in this fall he has fit into NorthStar seamlessly. He plays hard, plays for his teammates and has joy on the ice. Anchorage is getting a bullet on the ice and a fun caring teammate off the ice.”
As these two athletes continue to compete for the Knights this season we look forward to watching them develop and grow as hockey players and wish them nothing but the best in their future hockey endeavors!
Hunter Rudolph commits to St. Cloud State University
Alexandria, MN (Nov. 7, 2024)
For more information, contact: Cody Wang, Director of Hockey Operations and Media Relations ([email protected])
Current 16U NorthStar Knight Hunter Rudolph has committed to play Division I hockey at St. Cloud State University. Rudolph who currently leads the 16U Knights in scoring with 16 goals and 18 assists also led the 16U Knights team in scoring during the 2023-2024 season with 27 goals and 30 assists. The 5-8 160lb West Fargo, ND native has proven to be a dynamic offensive threat for the Knights during his time at the academy.
Hunter, who also serves as a Captain on the 16U team, has thus far propelled the knights to a 13-5 record. “Hunters dedication and abilities in hockey have grown tremendously within the last year while developing his character. His leadership this season has impacted our team and St. Cloud is getting a great young man and player!” said Dallas Steward, the Knights 16U head coach. Rudolph, who was also drafted by the Tri City Storm of the USHL last year went on to say “I choose St. Cloud State University because of the culture, hockey, and the opportunity to grow with like-minded people. The coaching staff is amazing and really made it a no brainer.”
The Knights are excited to watch Rudolph continue his hockey career with the Knights, Tri City Storm, St. Cloud State and beyond!
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.”