Bantam A team qualifies for regional
The Brainerd Bantam A hockey team has earned a berth in the Minnesota Amateur Hockey Association West Regional Tournament, which starts Friday.
The regional will determine which teams get to play in the Minnesota state finals tournament.
In the opening round of the District 15 playoffs Feb. 16-17, Brainerd defeated Detroit Lakes 6-1.
Members of the Brainerd Bantam A hockey team include Mitch McLain (front, left), Josh Machenthun, Mason Fussy, Gaven Motschenbacher, Adam Casperson (middle, left), Zach Brown, Jared Stearns, Jeff Grimsley, Tanner Miles, Joey Houston, Logan Rudstrom, assistant coach Pete Larson (back, left), assistant coach Jake Johnson, head coach Don Motschenbacher, Mike Foley, Austin Anderson, Chris Sausen, Max Dondelinger, Tim Dewey and Matt Pohlkamp.
In the second round, Brainerd fell to Alexandria 4-3 in overtime despite outshooting Alexandria 33-21.
In the regional qualifying game, Brainerd defeated Little Falls 2-1. Midway through the third period, forward Max Dondelinger scored the game-winner off a pass from Gavin Motschenbacher. Goaltender Jared Stearns made 24 saves.
Brainerd's defense gave up an average of only two goals a game in the district playoffs.