Today, the Minnesota Magicians submitted declaration forms to USA Hockey stating their intent to participate in USA District/Nationals for the 2014-2015 season. The papers had to be submitted by October 1st. The Magicians’ declared their intent to send their U16 and U18 teams. As a result of this action, the will be two Minnesota District tourneys (U16 and U18) played in early March at a place and time to be determined. Shattuck-St. Mary's, who in prior years were the only organization to declare their intent, will now have at least one competitor.
There is a potential of four more competitors at the U16 level making a similar declaration; the Northern Wings, the Minnesota Blades, Baurer Emerson, and the Elite D Gold team. If all declared in the next few days, Minnesota District’s first tourney would have six teams participating. Additional U18 teams could also declare; Northern Wings, Blades, and Baurer Emerson turning the U18 tourney into a five team affair.
The Magicians U18 and U16 teams are a before and after team; players for these teams are drawn from the Red/Black league sponsored by the Magicians. The Magicians U18 team is currently ranked 7th in the nation; the Blades U18 team is ranked 14th. Eight teams are playing in the Red/Black league. Each team is given a color. The White and Orange teams are tied for the league lead. The league will be the subject of a post next week.