Freeze 18U Back-to-Back Tournament Champions

The Fargo Freeze 18U team went undefeated in Shakopee, MN Jan 20-22, 2023 to take the “Hot Headed Hockey Invitational” tournament championship for a second consecutive year! The championship is another achievement in what has been a record-breaking season for the 18U program. 

In early December the Freeze 18U’s opened with a perfect 5-0 record against teams from MN, SD and ND to win the championship of the Brookings JGB tournament. A few weeks later the team followed up with a 3-1 record in the Moorhead JGB tournament to take 3rd place, followed by the Shakopee championship. The team has posted an impressive 13-1 record across three tournaments and as of this posting, has a perfect 6-0 record in the NDAHA league as well. 

It’s been a hot start for the team, but they remain focused on carrying that success into the NDAHA State Tournament in early March. “We’ve had some tough, close games in these tournaments but our boys have found a way to win.” Says head coach, Brian Hanson. “It’s been good for us to have to battle through these tight games so we’re prepared and know how to handle it when we get to State.”

The success of this year’s team has been building for a few years.  “Five players are returnees from last year’s 18U team and ten players are graduates of the Freeze 16U program,” Says Junior Gold Coordinator, Colin Clarke. “Most of these players were teammates from early youth hockey teams. They’ve come together quickly and are having a lot of fun. It’s been a great season for the kids and the program.”