For what feels like the millionth time we’ve typed this, what a strange year. 

There. Now that’s out of the way.

After nearly two months of a state-mandated pause on youth athletics, the Youth Hockey Hub is proud to present the fourth version of the Danglefest, a tournament for girls teams at the 12A and 10A levels. 

The tournament typically features some of the top teams in the state, and, pandemic aside, 2021 is no exception. Both divisions are primed for dominant performances, memorable moments, and have plenty of room for a few surprises as well. 

Last year’s tournament featured the Andover 12A’s romping to the title, outscoring its opponents 18-2 and blanking Edina 3-0 in the championship game. Avery Kasick was named Most Valuable Player of the 12A Division, scoring three goals and adding three assists for six total points. Kasick’s performance included a goal and an assist in the tournament final. 

Osseo-Maple Grove took home top honors in the 10A Division, not allowing more than two goals in a single game and earning a shutout in the final like their 12A counterparts. The Leafbirds topped Blaine/Spring Lake Park 4-0 in the title-game, helped by Tournament MVP Harper Wieneke’s fifth goal of the tournament. Wieneke’s five goals and six points made her one of the tournament’s top scorers.

This year's tournament will be played across the metro area, from historic Bloomington Ice Garden to TRIA Rink, home of the NWHL's Minnesota Whitecaps. Click the links below for full tournament schedules. 

10A Preview 

While Edina and Minnetonka appear to be the strongest teams on paper, the 10A Division has a handful of teams that could make a run through pool play. Stillwater and Orono-Westonka have traditionally played well in the Danglefest, while Prior Lake brings a strong group this season. Farmington could make some noise as well with a balanced roster. 

Minnetonka appears to be tops in Pool B, but Chaska/Chanhassen could challenge the Skippers with a strong goaltending performance. Forest Lake, Minneapolis, and Mahtomedi each have a few quality players that could shake up Pool B down the stretch.

12A Preview 

The 12A Division is a pleasant surprise coming out of the pause, featuring a deep and talented group of teams in both pools. 
Proctor/Hermantown and Edina are the early favorites in Pool A for their respective depth. Still, Moorhead, White Bear Lake, and Wayzata are all capable of pulling off an upset or two, especially with all teams out of sorts after being off for over a month. 

Last year’s 12A champion Andover resides in Pool B, along with Minnetonka, Stillwater, Orono-Westonka, and Eagan-Inver Grove Heights. Stillwater finished 2-2 in pool play during last year’s tournament, and could make a case for Pool B supremacy if everything breaks right.