Rock Ridge Wolverines Defeat Duluth Denfeld Hunters 6-2

The Wolverines dominated the Hunters in a high-scoring matchup at Essentia Duluth Heritage Center.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Rock Ridge Wolverines hockey team defeated the Duluth Denfeld Hunters by a score of 6-2 in a game played on Thursday, February 12, 2026 at the Essentia Duluth Heritage Center. The Wolverines opened the scoring early in the first period and led 2-1 after the first. They then scored four goals in the second period to pull away for the decisive victory.

Why it matters

High school hockey is a beloved tradition in Minnesota, and this matchup between the Wolverines and Hunters featured two talented teams battling it out on the ice. The win for Rock Ridge keeps them in contention for a strong postseason run, while the loss is a setback for Duluth Denfeld as they look to improve their record.

The details

The Wolverines got on the board quickly, with Jackson Bartovich scoring just 1 minute and 6 seconds into the game. Landon Mathison then made it 2-0 for Rock Ridge later in the first period. Duluth Denfeld's Cory Backstrom scored to cut the deficit to 2-1 before the end of the opening frame. In the second period, the Wolverines exploded for four goals from Cal Scott, Bartovich, Caz Carlson (twice) to take a commanding 6-2 lead heading into the third period.

  • The game was played on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
  • Jackson Bartovich scored the opening goal for Rock Ridge just 1 minute and 6 seconds into the game.
  • Landon Mathison made it 2-0 for the Wolverines in the first period at the 7:38 mark.
  • Cory Backstrom scored for Duluth Denfeld late in the first period at 16:28.
  • The Wolverines scored four goals in the second period between 26:18 and 36:01.

The players

Jackson Bartovich

A forward for the Rock Ridge Wolverines who scored two goals in the game.

Landon Mathison

A forward for the Rock Ridge Wolverines who scored one goal in the game.

Cory Backstrom

A forward for the Duluth Denfeld Hunters who scored both of their goals in the game.

Cal Scott

A forward for the Rock Ridge Wolverines who scored one goal in the game.

Caz Carlson

A forward for the Rock Ridge Wolverines who scored two goals in the game.

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What they’re saying

“We came out strong and were able to capitalize on our opportunities. It was a great team effort.”

— Jackson Bartovich, Forward, Rock Ridge Wolverines (The Rink Live)

“We struggled to match their intensity in the second period. We'll need to regroup and come back stronger next time.”

— Cory Backstrom, Forward, Duluth Denfeld Hunters (The Rink Live)

What’s next

The Wolverines will look to build on this win as they continue their push for a strong postseason position, while the Hunters will aim to bounce back in their next game.

The takeaway

This high-scoring affair showcased the offensive firepower of the Rock Ridge Wolverines, who were able to overwhelm the Duluth Denfeld Hunters with their aggressive play. The result keeps the Wolverines firmly in contention for a deep playoff run in the competitive Minnesota high school hockey landscape.