Rogers Royals Make Historic Hockey Tournament Debut

ELK RIVER, Minn. — The Rogers Royals have made history by advancing to the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) hockey tournament for the first time, following a thrilling 4-3 victory over the Champlin Park Rebels in the Class 2A, Section 5 championship on Thursday night.

Defenseman Nolen Geerdes ignited the game early, scoring just 2 minutes and 23 seconds into the first period. Geerdes stated, “That’s what all the summer training is for, all the offseason training, so when you get into those moments, it’s second nature.” Forward Keaton Weis later added to the score with a goal, helping Rogers to a commanding 4-0 lead early in the second period.

Despite the early advantage, the Rebels rallied back. Coach Tom Potter led his team with an encouraging message during the second intermission, challenging them to rise to the occasion. His speech paid dividends as Cole Perkins and Nick Carlson scored to pull Champlin Park within one goal in the third period. However, the Royals showcased their defensive capabilities down the stretch. Coach David Brown noted, “You have to find ways to win. Our guys bought in. They blocked shots when it was time to block shots, stalled pucks when it was time to stall pucks.”

The close victory reflected over two decades of effort, as Rogers has transformed from a team known more as a “truck stop off Highway 94” into champions of their section. Brown expressed pride for the entire community and the players who built the program from its inception.

Rogers is set to face powerhouse Edina in the next round of the state tournament, creating a thrilling matchup that has fans buzzing. The players’ excitement highlights a significant moment in Rogers hockey history—building hope for future teams. Geerdes added, “It’s exciting being the team that can break the seal and show the younger generations it can be done.” The Royals hope to prove their worth on the big stage when they take the ice at the Xcel Energy Center.