Moorhead Spuds Hockey Claims State Championship
The Moorhead Spuds hockey team achieved a remarkable victory on March 7, 2026, at the Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul, Minnesota, winning the Class 2A boys hockey state championship by defeating the Minnetonka Skippers 5-4 in a thrilling double overtime match.
The game was a dramatic contest, with the Spuds overcoming a significant 4-1 deficit. Evan Wanner scored the game-winning goal in the second overtime, solidifying his place in the annals of the school’s hockey history. His goal was described as one that will resonate within the program for years to come.
Moorhead’s comeback was fueled by a strong performance in the third period, where they scored three goals to tie the game after trailing for most of regulation. Zac Zimmerman played a pivotal role, scoring the tying goal with just 35 seconds left in regulation, which sent the game into overtime.
The championship match drew an impressive crowd of 19,648 fans, showcasing the strong support for high school hockey in Minnesota. This victory marks Moorhead’s second consecutive state championship title, having previously claimed their first by defeating Stillwater 7-6 last season.
Throughout the season, the Moorhead Spuds demonstrated exceptional skill, finishing with a record of 27 wins, 3 losses, and 1 tie. Their journey to the title game was marked by resilience, as they have now appeared in the championship match 10 times, with this being their second title win after finishing as runner-up 8 times previously.
As the defending state champions, Moorhead entered the tournament with high expectations and delivered an unforgettable performance. The Spuds trailed for all but 35 seconds of regulation, falling behind 3-0 early and 4-1 in the third period, but their determination and teamwork ultimately led them to victory.
Reactions to the game have been overwhelmingly positive, with fans and players alike celebrating the Spuds’ remarkable achievement. The team’s ability to rally from behind and secure the win in such a dramatic fashion has further cemented their legacy in Minnesota high school hockey.
With this victory, the Moorhead Spuds hockey team not only adds another championship title to their name but also continues to inspire future generations of players in their community.
