This week, the focus falls on three proficient Oahe Capitals hockey players as they prepare to represent Team South Dakota in the highly anticipated 2024 National Hockey Tournament. Ava Lavinger, Katie Reiss, and Brylee Kafka have been chosen to join the 14U and 16U USA Hockey Tier II National Tournament teams, displaying their skills and devotion to the sport.
The tournaments, scheduled for April 3rd to April 7th, 2024, will witness the Girls 16U Team competing in Green Bay, WI, while the 14U Girls will be displaying their talent in Sioux Falls, promising a lively and thrilling week for both teams.
Consisting of a total of 18 girls from eight of the South Dakota Amateur Hockey Association’s 11 Affiliates, the 14U Team South Dakota is poised to create a commendable impression. Meanwhile, the 16U Team also possesses an impressive lineup of 17 players showcasing the skills and expertise of seven different hockey communities.
To secure their spots in the national tournament, these young athletes took part in approximately 20 games last fall and have been practicing diligently together since early March, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to the sport.
The stage is set for a high-stakes competition, with teams from 14 different states set to compete in three rounds of pool play, culminating in the top teams advancing to the championship rounds. The Tier II National Championships will take place on Sunday, adding to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the event.
As the tournament gets underway, both Team South Dakota teams will be hitting the ice for their first games on Wednesday. The 16U Girls are scheduled to open the tournament with a game against Honey Baked from Michigan at 3pm, while the 14U Girls will be facing off against the Vegas Jr. Golden Knights at 5 pm, setting the stage for an exhilarating start to the competition.
With a rich roster of skilled players, the teams are prepared for success, and fans will be eagerly cheering them on as they compete with tenacity and determination.
The Girls 14U Roster features a talented lineup, including players from various cities across South Dakota, showcasing the diversity and depth of talent within the state. Coaches Austin Koenig and Jason Murray are all set to guide and mentor these promising athletes, nurturing their potential and providing invaluable support throughout the tournament.
Likewise, the Girls 16U Roster comprises a dynamic group of players hailing from different regions, each bringing their unique strengths and expertise to the team. Coaches Brady Pinney, Chris Tronnes, and Ashley Zimmer are committed to providing the guidance and strategies needed for the team to excel in the competition, instilling confidence and determination in the players.
As the young athletes prepare to showcase their talents on a national stage, the enthusiasm and anticipation are tangible. The community eagerly looks forward to cheering on Team South Dakota as they embark on this exciting and challenging journey, rooting for their success and triumph in the 2024 National Hockey Tournament.
For more information on the tournament, interested individuals can visit https://nationals.usahockey.com/ to stay updated on the latest news and developments surrounding the event.