Wilderness and Grit win 2024 NAHL Prospects Challenge Titles
The North American Hockey League (NAHL) Prospects Challenge came to a close Sunday, May 19 at the Super Rink with two Championship games. The Minnesota Wilderness won at the 18U level, and the Colorado Grit at the 16U level.
Game Recaps:
Minnesota Wilderness (18U) 5 vs. Minnesota Mallards Gold (18U): The Minnesota Wilderness blanaked the Minnesota Mallards in a 5-0 final to win the 18U Top Prospects Championship Title. After a scoreless first, Caden Cole netted the first goal of the game for a 1-0 Wilderness lead. In the second, Caden Cole added his second of the game for a 2-0 Wilderness lead. Luke Babineau got on the scoresheet making it a 3-0 game. Later in the period, Cazimiro Carlson scored followed by Weston Schenkelberg for a 5-0 final score. Wilderness split time between two goalies of Ryan Gerlich, who stopped 13 shots and Connor Doyle, who stopped 11.
Colorado Grit 16U 4 vs. St. Cloud Norsemen (16U) 2: The Colorado Grit added three goals in the third period to take a 4-2 win over the St. Cloud Norsemen to win the 16U Top Prospects Championship. Colton Schantzen scored the lone goal of the first period for a St. Cloud lead, 1-0. In the second, Tristan Kriech added another St. Cloud goal, 2-0. Later in the middle frame, Amir Chebaclo scored getting Colorado on the board to end the period, 2-1. In the third it was all Colorado with Cole Forest scoring twice and Cole Anderson adding another for a 4-2 final.
The NAHL Prospects Challenge is a valuable addition to the league's developmental pathway. By incorporating both 18U and 16U teams assembled by NAHL Member teams, it offers a platform for young players to compete at a high level and gain exposure to NAHL coaches and scouts.
The strategic timing of the event alongside the Robertson Cup enhances its significance, as it allows for increased participation from NAHL teams and expands the geographical reach for scouting and recruitment efforts. This alignment creates a synergy between showcasing top-tier talent at the Robertson Cup and providing a platform for up-and-coming prospects to make their mark.
Moreover, the educational aspect of the Prospects Challenge is noteworthy. It provides an opportunity for players to learn from NAHL coaches and staff, gain insights into the league's standards and expectations, and understand the pathway to advancement within the NAHL and beyond. Overall, the Prospects Challenge aims at nurturing young talent, strengthening the league's talent pipeline, and fostering connections between players, and teams.
For more information about the 2024 NAHL Prospects Challenge click here.
