Three Escanaba Hawks teams going to state finals in March

ESCANABA — All three Escanaba Hawks Amateur Hockey teams (10U, 12U and 14U) are on their way to the Michigan Amateur Hockey Association State Tournament in early March.
The 14U team earned its way with wins against Copper Country (13-2), Manistique (6-3), Calumet (7-3) and Marquette in late January.
“All our kids stepped up and played hard,” coach Mike Sands said. “This was the last shot at a trip to States for some of these players, and they weren’t going to be denied.”
14U, sponsored by Edwards Collision Center, plays in the State Finals in Ironwood March 11.
The 12U team topped Calumet (13-2) in district semifinals after a loss to Newberry (1-3) and wins against Marquette (6-0) and Copper Country (9-1) to reach the finals.

Nick Martinson and Griffin Johnson helped command the team to its second state tournament appearance in three years, and first-year goaltender Bryce Bichler put on an all-star performance, only allowing nine goals during the tournament.
The team, sponsored by UP Ophthalmology Associates visit Muskegon March 4 for the state tournament.
The 10U team, sponsored by Nicolet Bank, will be making its third appearance in the finals in three years.
It earned its way after defeating Iron Mountain in the district finals, 6-2. The Hawks were led by 10-year-old Henry Sholten, who had five goals in the match. Sholten also led the team in goals throughout the district tournament.
He was followed by Jaegar Gartland, Dallin Fisher and Channing Heslip.

The Hawks also took wins against Copper Country (7-4), Manistique (11-0), Newberry (5-2) and Calumet (6-0).
10U will visit Brighton March 4 to continue its postseason run.
Fundraisers for all three teams will be taking place during February. For more information on supporting the Hawks’ trips, please visit EAJHA.com or find the Escanaba Area Junior Hockey Association on Facebook.


