2 IS GIRLS' HOCKEY IN DECLINE?

The 123 varsity teams competing throughout the state is the lowest number in eight years. In 2005-06 there were 130 teams. The decline, while not severe, bears watching in the "State of Hockey." This season Richfield dropped its varsity hockey program. 

3 PRE-STATE TOURNAMENT FIELD

Roseville must navigate a treacherous route to the state tournament. Top-10 teams Stillwater, White Bear Lake and defending section champion Hill-Murray all reside with the Raiders in Section 4. The Ponies and Bears boast their share of notable players while the Pioneers are led by forward Hannah Brandt, a player in consideration for Ms. Hockey. 

4 FUTURE GOPHERS

Brandt and defenders Milica McMillen of Breck and Lee Stecklein of Roseville all signed letters of intent with the Gophers. Brandt is known for her vision and playmaking skills while McMillen and Stecklein are big, mobile defenders who dictate the action of both ends of the rink. 

5 HEADS UP ON NEW RULE

Effective this season, any contact with an opposing player's head or neck could result in a stand-alone minor or major penalty or disqualification. The National Federation of State High School Associations Board of Directors approved the rule to "heighten awareness of the seriousness of any type of contact to the head."