Key Takeaways:
- Team USA defeated Slovakia 13-0 in the U18 World Championships, with Benilde-St. Margaret’s Talla Hansen scoring two goals and adding an assist.
- Nine Minnesotans are on the 2026 Team USA U18 Women’s roster, including Alaina Gnetz, Talla Hansen, Maddy Kimbrel, and Kateryna Sander.
- The team is coached by Courtney Kennedy, who praised the team’s resilient effort and attention to detail in their first game.
- Team USA will face Czechia in their next preliminary round game on January 11, with puck drop set for 5 p.m. ET.
- The team’s roster includes players from various states, including Minnesota, Massachusetts, California, and Illinois, as well as players from Shattuck-St. Mary’s in Faribault.
Introduction to Team USA’s Victory
Team USA got off to a strong start in the U18 World Championships, defeating Slovakia 13-0 in a heavily lopsided affair. Benilde-St. Margaret’s junior Talla Hansen led the way for Team USA, scoring two goals and adding an assist in the win. Holy Family senior Maddy Kimbrel also scored for Team USA, while Katya Sander added two assists. The team’s dominant performance was evident in their 75-5 shot advantage over Slovakia.
Minnesota Representation on Team USA
The 2026 Team USA U18 Women’s roster features nine players from Minnesota, including Alaina Gnetz, Talla Hansen, Maddy Kimbrel, Taylee Manion, Addison McLay, Mia Miller, Emily Pohl, Bailey Rupp, and Kateryna Sander. These players come from various high schools and programs across the state, including Benilde-St. Margaret’s, Holy Family, Hill-Murray, and Northfield. The strong representation from Minnesota is a testament to the state’s rich hockey tradition and the talent of its young players.
Team USA’s Roster and Coaching Staff
In addition to the Minnesota players, Team USA’s roster includes players from other states, such as Massachusetts, California, and Illinois. The team is coached by Courtney Kennedy, who praised the team’s resilient effort and attention to detail in their first game. Kennedy noted that while there are still things to work on, she is proud of the team’s performance in their opening game. The team’s roster also includes players from Shattuck-St. Mary’s in Faribault, including Kylie Amelkovich, Jane Daley, Morgan Stickney, and Sloane Hartmetz.
Upcoming Games and Schedule
Team USA will face Czechia in their next preliminary round game on January 11, with puck drop set for 5 p.m. ET. The game can be viewed live on NHL Network. The team will look to build on their strong start and continue to dominate their opponents in the tournament. With their talented roster and experienced coaching staff, Team USA is poised to make a deep run in the U18 World Championships.
Tournament Records and Notable Performances
The game against Slovakia saw several notable performances, including a tournament record six assists by Kylie Amelkovich. Jane Daley also had a hat trick, while Morgan Stickney recorded a 5-save shutout. These impressive performances demonstrate the skill and talent of Team USA’s players and set the stage for a competitive and exciting tournament.
Conclusion and Outlook
Team USA’s dominant win over Slovakia sets the tone for a successful tournament. With their strong roster and experienced coaching staff, the team is well-positioned to make a deep run in the U18 World Championships. The team’s Minnesota players, including Talla Hansen and Maddy Kimbrel, will look to continue their strong play and lead the team to victory. As the tournament progresses, fans can expect to see exciting hockey and impressive performances from Team USA’s talented players.
