Local Junior Hockey Team Advances to State Tournament

The Iron Range Negaunee Miners, 12-U, AA hockey team will compete in the Michigan Amateur Hockey Association State Tournament

Mar. 12, 2026 at 2:51am

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The Iron Range Negaunee Miners, a 12-U, AA hockey team, has qualified for the Michigan Amateur Hockey Association State Tournament after winning their district eight tournament earlier this year. The team, which has been playing together for years, is known for their high-scoring offense and strong teamwork.

Why it matters

Youth sports teams advancing to state-level tournaments is an exciting milestone for the local community, showcasing the dedication and talent of young athletes. The Negaunee Miners' success also highlights the value of long-term team building and a focus on teamwork over individual stats.

The details

The Negaunee Miners earned their spot in the state championship tournament after winning the district eight tournament held in Calumet earlier this year. Head Coach Paul Storm attributes the team's success to their years of playing together and their commitment to practicing hard and playing as a team. The team is known for being the highest scoring in every tournament they've played in and posting multiple shutouts.

  • The Negaunee Miners will depart for Traverse City on Thursday to compete in the state tournament.
  • The state tournament games will begin on Friday afternoon.

The players

Paul Storm

Head Coach of the Iron Range Negaunee Miners 12-U, AA hockey team.

Evan Cardinal

A 12 or 13-year-old player on the Iron Range Negaunee Miners team.

Jace Dove

A 12 or 13-year-old player on the Iron Range Negaunee Miners team.

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What they’re saying

“To compete in the Tier Two state championship. Eight teams have qualified from around the state. They are from Metro Detroit, all the way to the Upper Peninsula.”

— Paul Storm, Head Coach

“They compete hard at practice. You know they know each other well enough now, or they're almost like brothers.”

— Paul Storm, Head Coach

“The only stat that matters is you know what kind of teammate you are. So, yeah, we don't share stats. We don't keep stats. It's about learning how to be a team player.”

— Paul Storm, Head Coach

“It means a lot because you just pass the puck around, and it's fun passing the puck around, because then you have to score as a team with everybody.”

— Evan Cardinal, Player

“Our strategy is probably to play more defense and not go for the puck as much.”

— Jace Dove, Player

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Youth sports teams advancing to state-level tournaments is an exciting milestone for local communities, showcasing the dedication and talent of young athletes. The Negaunee Miners' success highlights the value of long-term team building and a focus on teamwork over individual stats, qualities that can translate to success both on and off the ice.