In a high-stakes showdown at the Plymouth Ice Center, the Wayzata Trojans secured a thrilling 4-3 overtime victory against the Edina Hornets in the first of their two regular-season matchups on January 15, 2025. The win improved Wayzata’s record to 10-5-2, while Edina slipped to 11-5-0.
The Trojans struck first with a power-play goal from Colin Bierman at 4:36 in the first period, assisted by Finn De St. Hubert and George Ericson. Despite a quiet opening frame for Edina, the Hornets roared back in the second period. Mason West led the charge with two goals, including one assisted by Caleb Pittsley, who also added a power-play goal to give Edina a 3-2 advantage.
Wayzata refused to back down, as McCoy Kurtz netted his second goal of the game late in the second period, leveling the score at 3-3. Kurtz was a standout for the Trojans, scoring twice with critical setups by teammates Bierman and De St. Hubert.
After a scoreless third period, the game headed to overtime. Wayzata’s Christopher Pyle played the hero, burying the game-winning goal at 6:30 into the extra session with assists from Carson Clark and Eli Molde.
The game was a battle of goaltenders, with Wayzata’s Ryan Pellinger delivering an impressive performance, stopping 32 of 35 shots for a .914 save percentage. Edina’s Ryan Keeley faced 23 shots, saving 19 for a .826 save percentage.
Special teams also played a key role, with both teams converting one power-play opportunity each. Wayzata’s disciplined play in the clutch moments of overtime sealed the victory and set the stage for an exciting rematch later in the season.
The Trojans will look to build on this momentum as they continue their push in the competitive Minnesota high school hockey season. They play at East Grand Forks Friday at 6:30.
“Two unanswered goals scored in the second period gave the Wayzata boys hockey team a lead and the Trojans ended up holding onto it in a 3-2 win over Benilde-St. Margaret’s. Tate Roeder got Wayzata on the board first with a backdoor rebound goal thirteen minutes into the game. The Red Knights answered with a goal from Cam Kirschner. Goals from Chris Pyle and Nolan O’Connell in the second pushed the Trojans’ lead to 3-2. Kirschner again scored in the third period, but junior goaltender Ryan Pellinger came up with some big stops for the Trojans down the stretch and preserved the Wayzata win. The Trojans advance to 6-2-1 on the season, while the Red Knights drop to 3-2.” via CCX Media.
“The Benilde-St. Margaret’s girls hockey team trailed Wayzata 1-0 for a long stretch of their game Tuesday before scoring twice just over a minute apart in the second period. Each team scored once in the third as BSM skated to a 3-2 win over Wayzata. The Red Knights had a huge advantage in puck possession and shots on goal, but Morgan Kennedy’s goal after a Benilde turnover early in the game gave the Trojans a 1-0 lead. Talla Hansen and Lulu Rucinski buried chances late in the second for the Red Knights to make it 2-1. Addie Morris made it 3-1 early in the third before Ava Molde scored after a faceoff win by Julia Ostapeic with 25-seconds left in the third period for Wayzata. Malin Erickson had 38 saves for Wayzata.” via CCX Media.
The Trojans are riding high after an impressive 5-3 victory over Andover last week. Key goals came from Max Luedtke, Christopher Pyle, Ben Neuenfeldt (shorthanded), Eli Molde (shorthanded empty-net), and Cruz Sauer (shorthanded empty-net). Wayzata improved to 5-2-1 overall, though they remain 0-1 in Lake Conference play. This week, they face Benilde St. Margaret’s on Tuesday and Hill-Murray on Thursday.
Girls Hockey
The Wayzata girls hockey team defeated Eden Prairie 4-2 last Saturday, improving to 6-4-0 overall and 2-2 in Lake Conference play. Julia Ostapeic led the charge with two goals, while Morgan Kennedy and Josie Lindahl added one each. They look to keep momentum against Centennial/Spring Lake Park on Saturday.
Boys Basketball
The Trojans earned a strong 71-64 win over Lakeville North on Friday, led by Isaac Olmstead’s 23 points, Nolan Anderson’s 22, and Christian Wiggins‘ 8. Next up, they host St. Louis Park on Tuesday and Breck on Thursday. The Trojans are 3-2 on the season.
Wayzata will aim to bounce back after a tough 72-64 loss to Jordan Ode and Maple Grove last Thursday, where standout Sophie Hawkinson tallied 19 points and Allie Berns added 18. The Trojans face Como Park on Tuesday and Roseville Area on Friday. Wayzata is now 4-2 on the season.
Gymnastics
The girls gymnastics team will look to rebound from a recent loss to Hopkins when they host STMA on Thursday.
The Wayzata Trojans are gearing up for another exciting week of athletic competition, with plenty of action both at home and on the road. Here’s a closer look at what’s ahead, along with updates on some key teams.
Boys Basketball: Searching for a Spark
The Trojans’ boys basketball team (1-2) is looking to bounce back after a tough start to the season. Last year they finished 2nd in the state tournament with marquee player Jackson McAndrew who has since graduated and is playing at Creighton.
Last Saturday, Wayzata fell just short in a 68-71 battle with #1-ranked AAA Totino-Grace, a game that went down to the wire. This followed a heartbreaking overtime loss to Orono earlier in the week.
Tonight, Wayzata travels to Maple Grove for a critical matchup against the Crimson, aiming to build momentum. Junior standout Isaac Olmstead has been a force on the court, averaging 21.7 points per game, with senior Nolan Anderson close behind at 21.
Girls Basketball: Off to a Dominant Start
On the other side of the court, the girls basketball team has hit the ground running with a 3-1 start to the season. The Trojans are coming off a commanding 102-31 win over Park Center, with five players scoring in double digits. Sophomore Sophie Hawkinson led the way with 22 points, followed by Annika Kieser (13), Katie Kelzenberg (12), Allie Berns (12), and Marin Day (10).
The team faces another test tonight as they welcome Chaska to Wayzata High School. With their high-powered offense clicking, the Trojans will look to continue their strong play.
Boys Hockey: Strong Start to the Season
The boys hockey team is skating strong with a 4-1-1 record to open their season. Most recently, the Trojans fought to a 1-1 tie against White Bear Lake in a tightly contested matchup. Senior Eli Molde and junior George Ericson are leading the charge offensively, with eight points each on the season.
Tonight, the Trojans head to Eden Prairie Community Center to take on a tough Eagles squad. Expect a hard-fought battle as Wayzata aims to add another win to their solid start.
Girls Hockey: Battling Through the Early Schedule
The girls hockey team is sitting at 4-4 after a mixed start to the season. Noelle Noble and Julia Ostapeic have been bright spots offensively, leading the team with 8 and 6 points, respectively.
The Trojans will look to move above .500 tonight as they hit the road to face Buffalo at Buffalo High School. With the season still young, the team has plenty of time to hit their stride.
Other Highlights This Week
Adapted Hockey: The Trojans will host Anoka-Hennepin at Wayzata High School on Monday.
Nordic Skiing: Boys and girls teams will compete in skate races at Hyland Park Reserve on Wednesday.
Dance Team: Jazz and high-kick squads compete in meets at Eden Prairie and Lakeville North later this week.
Gymnastics: The Trojans take on Hopkins on Thursday at Hopkins High School.
Boys Swim & Dive: The team competes in the Lake Conference meet on Saturday at the Art Downey Aquatic Center.
Wrestling: Wayzata grapplers head to the Chanhassen Invite on Saturday.
As the winter season heats up, it’s the perfect time to come out and cheer for your Trojans. With a packed schedule and plenty of excitement on tap, there’s something for every sports fan this week. Go Trojans!
Image courtesy Wayzata Boys Hockey Twitter account.
This year, the annual CCX Media Turkey Trot Tournament event again brings top-tier high school hockey action to the Plymouth Ice Center a week before Thanksgiving. A staple in the local hockey community, the 2024 edition of the tournament promises a weekend packed with skill, speed, and plenty of spirit.
Four powerhouse teams—Wayzata, Edina, Maple Grove, and Moorhead—are set to hit the ice this Friday and Saturday, November 22-23. Fans can catch both Varsity and Junior Varsity games, with Rink A hosting the Varsity matches and Rink C showcasing JV teams.
Friday’s Varsity Action
The puck drops at 5:00 PM as Edina faces off against Maple Grove. At 7:15 PM, the hometown Wayzata Trojans will battle Moorhead in what promises to be an electrifying match. JV action mirrors the schedule, with Wayzata taking on Moorhead at 5:00 PM, followed by Edina versus Maple Grove at 7:15 PM.
Saturday’s Showdowns
The competition heats up as Moorhead takes on Edina at 5:00 PM, leading into the marquee matchup between Wayzata and Maple Grove at 7:15 PM. JV enthusiasts won’t want to miss the 3:15 PM game featuring Moorhead and Edina or Wayzata’s clash with Maple Grove at 5:00 PM.
Celebrate Thanksgiving Early
This tournament is more than just hockey—it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and sportsmanship. Families and fans are encouraged to pack the stands, cheer on their teams, and soak in the festive atmosphere, complete with fall-themed decorations and a sense of camaraderie unique to this event.
The Plymouth Ice Center is ready to welcome fans of all ages to kick off the holiday season with fast-paced hockey action. Admission is free, making this a can’t-miss opportunity to support local athletes and enjoy one of Wayzata’s most beloved traditions.
So lace up your skates—or just your boots—and head down to the rink this weekend. The Turkey Trot Tournament is here, and it’s bringing hockey season to life in the best way possible!
For a third straight year, the Wayzata boys hockey team saw their season come to an end against Edina in the postseason. In front of a sell-out crowd at the Bloomington Ice Garden, the Hornets defeated the Trojans 4-1 to claim the Section 6AA championship. Brittan Alstead’s wrister from Rhys Wallin got the Trojans on the board first in the first period, but it was all Edina after that as the Hornets scored four unanswered goals, including a short-handed goal in the third period from Barrett Dexheimer. Jackson Nevers, Mason West, and Bobby Cowan led Edina in scoring, each netting two points. The Trojans end their season with a 23-3-2 record. Via CCX Media.
Our sports update this week includes news, video, stats and more on the boys and girls Basketball teams, the boys and girls hockey teams, Wayzata Dance, Wayzata Gymnastics, the boys Nordic Ski Team, and more.
Wayzata Boys Basketball avenges only loss on season
The Trojans move to 9-1 in the Lake Conference and 22-1-0 on the season.
They remain ranked the #1 team in Class 4A, and #2 behind Totino-Grace in the Metro Top 10.
Jackson McAndrew led Wayzata with 27 points. Wyatt McBeth had 14, Isaac Olmstead scored 11 points, and Christian Wiggins had 9 points.
Also contributing were Ben Shaffer with 6 points and Drew Nepstad with 4.
The Trojans Travel to Armstrong (8-5) on Tuesday February 20th; leaders for the Falcons include Seth Newbern averaging 19 points per game, Desmond Ware average 13.6, and Charles Duncan averaging 10.0 points per game.
#6 Girls Basketball falls to #1 Hopkins 89-62
The #1 ranked Hopkins Royals defeated the #6 Wayzata Girls Basketball team at the Royals Athletic Center on Thursday, February 15th.
Florida recruit Liv McGill scored 29 points to lead Hopkins, with Tatum Woodson adding 21, and Lauren Hillsecheim scoring 13.
Maren Day led Wayzata against Hopkins.
Leaders for Wayzata included Maren Day with 17 points, Kate Amelotte with 13, and Sophie Hawkinson with 11 points.
Other contributors included Annika Kieser with 8, Katie Kelzenberg with 5, Allie Berns with 4, and Jess Haux with 4.
The Trojans (17-7 overall, 6-5 Lake Conference) will host St. Michael-Albertville (19-5 overall, 6-4 Lake Conference) on Friday, Feb 23rd at the Wayzata High School.
#3 Wayzata Boys Hockey defeats #2 Edina 4-3 in overtime
Your #3 ranked Wayzata Boys Hockey Team (21-2) traveled to Braemar Ice Arena in Edina on Saturday and beat the Hornets (20-4-1) with an overtime goal by Max Luedtke (assist to Jake Mattson) at 1:47 in the OT period.
Max Luedkte had two goals against Edina.
Other standout performances included Luke Miller who scored two goals in the first period, one unassisted and one with an assist from Cade De St. Hubert.
Luke Miller scored two goals against Edina for the Trojans.
Jake Mattson also added a goal at 13:26 in the first period, assisted by Hawke Huff and Miller.
Wayzata Goaltender Evan Turek had 21 saves on 24 shots, versus Hornet Goaltender Joe Bertram who had 20 saves on 24 shots.
Leaders for the Hornets included Gopher recruit Jackson Nevers who scored two goals and Caleb Pittsley who added the third Edina goal.
Wayzata begins Section Play hosting Blake (2-23) Thursday Feb 22nd at the PIC at 7pm.
Edina Girls Hockey Eliminates Trojans from Section 6 Semifinals
Senior night for the Wayzata Girls Hockey team. Image courtesy Delaney Gnos.
The Hornets beat the Wayzata Girls Hockey team 8-0 on Wednesday, February 14th at Braemar Arena in Edina.
The loss for the Trojans ends the season for Wayzata, who finished 7-18 on the season and 2-8 in Lake Conference play.
Trojan Shyla Sanders led Wayzata in scoring for the season with 13 goals and 5 assists for 18 points.
Davy Mokelke had 10 goals and 7 assists for 17 points.
Jenna Britz had 9 goals and 10 assists, and sister Nicole Britz had 7 goals and 10 assists.
Morgan Kennedy finished the season with 5 goals and 10 assists, and Julia Ostapeic had 2 goals and 15 assists on the season.
Wayzata Goaltender Ella Podiak played 20 games, with a record of 6-11, saving 422 of the 491 shots on goal; and Malin Erickson finished with a record of 1-7 saving 246 of the 283 shots on goal.
Wayzata Gymnasts headed to State
Kate Mignone, Mikaela Lundvall, Kylie Ufheil, and Ashley Mouyenga will head to the State Tournament Meet for Gymnastics after a successful Section meet at Hopkins on February 17th.
A Thrilling Weekend of Hockey and Community Spirit was accompanied by wins over Roseau & Moorhead
The Wayzata Boys Hockey Team (16-1-2) ventured north to the hockey hotbed of Warroad to participate in the highly anticipated Hockey Day Minnesota (HDMN) outdoor event with a game against Moorhead (7-10).
Wayzata Boys Hockey at the Minnesota Hockey Day event. Submitted photo.
“Hockey Day MN in Warroad was nothing short of amazing. The organization by everyone involved was phenomenal.
The way they welcomed us and made us feel at home the entire time will not be forgotten.“
Head Coach Pat O’Leary
The weekend showcased not only the team’s on-ice prowess but also the vibrant community spirit that surrounded the festivities.
The Varsity team left an indelible mark with their standout performances, particularly in the HDMN game against Moorhead.
The biggest takeaway from the game was the distribution of scoring, as the team netted five goals from five different players, highlighting the depth of talent within the squad.
Wayzata 5, Moorhead 2 – Scoring Summary
1st Period:
At 3:41, Wayzata’s Finn De St. Hubert secured the opening goal. Assists came from Rhys Wallin and Ben Neuenfeldt, giving Wayzata an early lead.
2nd Period:
Wayzata continued their offensive dominance in the second period. At 9:52, Jake Mattson netted a goal with even-strength precision, assisted by Carson Clark and Cade De St. Hubert.
Shortly after, at 11:53, Brooks Gengler capitalized on a power play, with assists credited to Eli Molde and Carson Clark, extending Wayzata’s lead.
3rd Period:
Moorhead fought back in the third period, with Brooks Cullen scoring a power-play goal at the 8:00 mark, assisted by Mason Kraft and Zac Zimmerman.
Evan Turek readies the crease. Submitted photo.
Wayzata’s Eli Molde responded at 13:16, securing another even-strength goal assisted by Carson Clark and Ben Kearin.
Moorhead’s Kraft swiftly answered at 15:15, narrowing the gap with an even-strength goal assisted by Carver Hasbargen and Tyden Bergeson.
Wayzata sealed the victory at 16:48 with an empty-net goal from Cade De St. Hubert. Assists were credited to Jake Mattson and Hawke Huff.
Defensive play showed significant improvement as well.
The team’s ability to limit shots and maintain solid play throughout three periods was evident, closing gaps that had affected their performance in previous matchups against Edina and Roseau.
Goalie Evan Turek had 18 saves on 20 shots on goal in 47:16 minutes of play. Gage Alstead had 3:44 of play.
Wayzata waits to play. Submitted photo.
In the initial periods against Moorhead, Wayzata exhibited strong and aggressive play, attacking the net with formidable forechecking.
Head Coach Pat O’Leary described the contest held outdoors against the Spuds, “I felt like our boys did an amazing job of focusing on playing our game and blocking out all of the distractions. We were ready to go in the first period and didn’t let up in the 2nd. We played a great 51 minutes and earned the win.”
Wayzata warms up. Submitted photo.
The Spuds, however, fought back in the later periods, showcasing their speed and capitalizing on any mistakes for breakaways and goal-scoring opportunities.
Moorhead, with a young roster, faced a familiar outcome with Wayzata’s superior skating and stronger physical game.
The Trojans also defeated Roseau (14-5-1) in Roseau on Thursday evening, by a score of 5-4.
Community Unites Behind HDMN
Beyond the rink, the Wayzata community found itself embraced by the warm hospitality of Warroad.
HDMN became a focal point for local businesses, with stores selling exclusive merchandise and extending a warm welcome to visiting families.
The nightlife in Warroad saw restaurants & bars hosting events, with many companies seizing the opportunity for social media tie-ins with their brands.
A unique community-driven approach was evident as many stores offered a hot cocoa tie-in, allowing patrons to buy a mug and receive free cocoa at each visited store.
This collaborative effort reflected a “win together” spirit that went beyond the norm for an event of this scale, especially in a smaller town.
A flat tire on the bus was really the only unfortunate part of the trip:
The HDMN grounds and ice facilities in Warroad were nothing short of top-notch.
Attendees were treated to excellent food, warming stations for comfort between periods, and a fantastic arena that contributed to making the event feel like a three-day celebration rather than just a series of games.
In summary, the Wayzata Hockey Team not only left their mark on the ice during Hockey Day Minnesota but also experienced firsthand the warm embrace of the Warroad community, showcasing the true spirit of this beloved annual event.
For more information on Hockey Day Minnesota, visit HockeyDayMN.com.
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