As enticing as the Edina/Andover matchup is, Class A hockey fans get their own treat as the two northern powerhouses meet immediately. Warroad cruised to a 6-1 victory in last year's Class A title game. Could this also be a preview of this year's Class A championship?  

Warroad returns with seniors Talya Hendrickson (Bemidji State commit) and Kate Johnson (Bemidji State commit), the Warriors may have the best offensive duo in the state. On defense, seniors Abby Chamernick and Lila Lanctot are great at shutting down opponents and can chip in offensively as well. Freshman Jordyn Werk will likely be Warroad's go-to option at goaltender after losing standout Kendra Nordick due to graduation.  

Proctor/Hermantown also returns most of its lineup from last year's state runner-up squad. At forward, senior Nya Sieger, juniors Izy Fairchild (Bemidji State commit) and Hannah Graves (Bemidji State commit), and junior Elk River/Zimmerman transfer Hailey Jussila will give the Mirage plenty of offensive firepower. Senior defender Ava Anick holds the fort for Proctor/Hermantown.

Like Warroad, the Mirage's most significant question mark is who will replace Abby Pajari, who graduated last spring. Neelah McLeod and Suri Langley will carry the goaltending duties for the Mirage this season.