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Hermantown Today
By the People, for the People
Northland Hockey Standouts Named Finalists for Prestigious Awards
Tate Swanson and Bryce Francisco recognized for outstanding seasons
Published on Feb. 21, 2026
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Two hockey players from Minnesota's Northland region, Tate Swanson of Hibbing/Chisholm and Bryce Francisco of Hermantown, have been named finalists for prestigious state awards. Swanson is a finalist for the Mr. Hockey Minnesota award, given to the state's top senior player, while Francisco is a finalist for the Frank Brimsek award, honoring the best goaltender.
Why it matters
These nominations highlight the exceptional talent coming out of the Northland hockey programs and the region's continued success in developing elite-level players. Winning these awards would be a major accomplishment for both players and their communities.
The details
Swanson, a forward for Hibbing/Chisholm, has tallied 25 goals and 35 assists this season, helping his team to a 22-2-2 record. Francisco, the Hermantown goaltender, has recorded the sixth-most wins in Minnesota and the fifth-most shutouts, with the second-most saves in the Northland region. Their standout performances have earned them finalist spots for the Mr. Hockey and Frank Brimsek awards, respectively.
- The Mr. Hockey award winner will be announced at a banquet on March 8th in St. Paul.
- The Frank Brimsek award winner will also be announced in March.
The players
Tate Swanson
A forward for the Hibbing/Chisholm hockey team, Swanson has been named a finalist for the Mr. Hockey Minnesota award, given to the state's top senior player.
Bryce Francisco
The goaltender for the Hermantown hockey team, Francisco has been named a finalist for the Frank Brimsek award, honoring the best goaltender in Minnesota.
What’s next
The winners of the Mr. Hockey and Frank Brimsek awards will be announced in March.
The takeaway
The recognition of Tate Swanson and Bryce Francisco as finalists for these prestigious awards showcases the exceptional talent and development of hockey players in Minnesota's Northland region. Their achievements highlight the strength of the local hockey programs and the continued success of the region in producing elite-level talent.
