St. Thomas Academy Defeats Shakopee 2-1 in 2025 Minnesota High School Boys Hockey State Tournament Quarterfinals

St. Thomas Academy Cadets Edge Shakopee Sabers 2-1 in Minnesota High School Boys Hockey State Tournament Quarterfinals

In a thrilling Class 2A quarterfinal matchup at the Excel Energy Center, the No. 3-seed St. Thomas Academy Cadets (24-5) emerged victorious over the No. 6-seed Shakopee Sabers (22-6-1) with a narrow 2-1 win. The game was a battle of strategies as both teams fought to control the tempo and secure a spot in the semifinals.

The Cadets took an early lead in the first period when Jackson Rudh capitalized on a loose puck in the crease, assisted by Michael Mikan and James Richardson. However, the Sabers quickly responded with a goal from Nathaniel Pederson, assisted by Cooper Simpson and Carson Steinhoff, to tie the game at 1-1 heading into the first intermission.

As the game progressed, both teams had their chances to take the lead, but it was St. Thomas Academy who struck next in the third period. On a power-play opportunity, Luca Pedri deflected a pass from Thomas Kertz into the net to give the Cadets a 2-1 advantage with just under 12 minutes remaining in the game.

Despite a late surge from Shakopee, including hitting the post on a backhand shot from Simpson, the Cadets held on to secure the victory. St. Thomas Academy coach Mark Strobel praised his team’s execution and ability to score crucial goals when needed, highlighting the importance of depth in championship hockey.

With the win, the Cadets advance to the Class 2A semifinals where they will face off against the No. 2-seed Stillwater on Friday at 6 p.m. at the Xcel Energy Center. The stage is set for another intense matchup as St. Thomas Academy looks to continue their quest for a state title.