Six exceptional players lead the way, while 15 contenders prove the depth of talent in Minnesota’s high school girls hockey scene.
Minnesota has long been known as a hotbed for hockey talent, and the high school girls’ hockey scene is no exception. Each year, the state produces a plethora of skilled players who go on to excel at the collegiate and international levels. In the 2023-24 season, the Star Tribune’s David La Vaque has compiled a Dream Team of six outstanding players from the metro area, along with 15 other contenders who made the selection process challenging. These athletes represent the best of the best, showcasing the depth and quality of talent in Minnesota’s high school girls hockey.
Lindzi Avar: A Versatile Forward with a Bright Future
Lindzi Avar, a senior forward from Minnetonka, has started the season in impressive fashion, leading her team with 10 points in just four games against tough opponents. Avar’s versatility and ability to play a complete 200-foot game make her a force to be reckoned with on the ice. Committed to Cornell, she has her sights set on leading Minnetonka to a Class 2A state title before taking her talents to the collegiate level.
Mackenzie Jones: A Dominant Defender with Offensive Flair
Junior defender Mackenzie Jones from Andover brings a unique blend of size, strength, and offensive skill to the ice. Standing at 5-11, Jones is not afraid to use her physicality to outmuscle opponents in the corners or in front of the net. Last season, she contributed an impressive nine goals and 14 assists. With a verbal commitment to Wisconsin, Jones is poised to continue making an impact at the next level.
Cailin Mumm: A Standout Defender with International Experience
Another key member of the Andover team, senior defender Cailin Mumm, has been instrumental in the Huskies’ success this season. As a captain, she has led by example, contributing four points in three challenging games. Mumm’s talent extends beyond the high school level, as she represented the United States at the 2023 IIHF Under-18 Women’s World Championship. Committed to St. Thomas, Mumm’s future in the sport looks bright.
Ayla Puppe: A Power Forward with Impressive Scoring Prowess
Northfield’s Ayla Puppe is a force to be reckoned with on the ice. Standing at 5-8, Puppe combines her size and strength with exceptional hands, making her a dominant power forward. Last season, she tallied an impressive 53 goals and 35 assists, and she has continued her scoring prowess in the current season with nine goals and nine assists in just five games. Committed to the University of Minnesota, Puppe is a strong contender for the prestigious Ms. Hockey award.
Josie St. Martin: A Speedy Forward with a Knack for Goal-Scoring
Stillwater’s Josie St. Martin is a player who consistently finds the back of the net. Last season, she led her team with 23 goals and 28 assists, showcasing her offensive prowess. Despite a slow start for Stillwater this season, St. Martin has remained dangerous, contributing four goals and four assists. Known for her exceptional speed, she has committed to Ohio State and is poised to make an impact at the collegiate level.
Dani Strom: A Stellar Goaltender with Unmatched Skill
Maple Grove’s Dani Strom is a standout goaltender who has drawn praise from her coach, Jim Koltes. Koltes hails Strom as one of the best he has ever seen play the position. With an impressive junior season, where she stopped 95% of shots faced and allowed just 1.36 goals per game, Strom has continued her stellar play this season, winning three shutout games and allowing just one goal overall. Committed to St. Thomas, Strom’s talent between the pipes is undeniable.
Conclusion:
Minnesota’s high school girls hockey scene is a treasure trove of talent, with players who excel in various positions and possess exceptional skill sets. The Dream Team for the 2023-24 season, led by Lindzi Avar, Mackenzie Jones, Cailin Mumm, Ayla Puppe, Josie St. Martin, and Dani Strom, represents the epitome of excellence in the metro area. However, the 15 contenders who made the selection process difficult highlight the depth of talent in the state. As these players continue to develop and make their mark on the ice, Minnesota’s reputation as a hockey powerhouse shows no signs of waning.
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