Grand Forks Knights Gear Up for Title Defense with Star Roster

URGENT UPDATE: The Grand Forks Central Knights are poised to defend their North Dakota state boys hockey championship with a powerhouse roster as they head into the new season. With nearly 70% of last year’s offense returning, including key players like All-State forward Cooper Deziel and All-State goaltender Westin Nielsen, excitement is building in Grand Forks as the team prepares for their title defense.

The Knights, who finished last season with an impressive 21-5-1 record, are focused on the challenge ahead. “Every day, we go over it,” said junior forward Ryder Rivard. The players are reminded that, “The hardest thing to do is to do what is expected,” as they aim to repeat their championship success on February 28 at Fargo’s Scheels Arena.

Led by senior captain Wyatt Blake, the team recognizes the pressure that comes with being the favorites. “There’s a really big target on our back,” Blake stated. “We can’t just think we’re No. 1. We have to work up to that.” The Knights ended last season on a high note, clinching 10 consecutive wins, including nail-biting victories over West Fargo in the semifinals and a 2-1 win against rival Grand Forks Red River in the championship.

While the team lost only five seniors, none of their talented non-seniors left for junior or AAA hockey, ensuring a strong foundation. The Knights are also welcoming four promising sophomores, including Nolan Marto, who excelled at the bantam level. The veterans are committed to integrating the newcomers and ensuring they quickly adapt to the competitive environment.

“Last year, I had Mack Blue who took me under his wing,” Rivard recalled. “Now it’s our turn to help the sophomores. Everyone is solid now. We have a good team on and off the ice.”

Central’s roster features other key returners like seniors Gavin Wockenfuss, Trey Clauson, and Chay Quamme. The junior class, highlighted by Rivard and Rylan Spicer, is also expected to make significant contributions.

Coach Grant Paranica emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and not becoming complacent. “Other teams in the state know we have almost everybody coming back from what we thought was a pretty decent hockey team,” he noted. “We’re going to get their best game. We can’t get complacent.”

To prepare, the Knights have scheduled high-stakes matchups against top Minnesota teams, including defending Class A champion East Grand Forks on Saturday and Class AA champion Moorhead on January 20. The team will also face perennial Class A power Warroad on December 30 and host Class AA Bemidji on January 22.

“The challenge is that we don’t get complacent,” Paranica said. “It’s about reaching to better ourselves and our team. Competing with each other in practice helps us grow.”

With a mix of experience, speed, and talent, the Knights are ready to make a strong statement this season. Fans are eagerly anticipating the action as the defending champions gear up for their title defense. Stay tuned for updates as the season unfolds!