On Tuesday, December 5th, USA Hockey announced its preliminary roster for the 2018 IIHF World Junior Championship in Buffalo, New York, which begins December 26. The 28-player roster, which features 10 Minnesota natives, will participate in a training camp and two pre-tournament games before the final 23 player roster is announced.

The preliminary roster includes seven returning players from last year’s gold medal winning team. Minnesota natives Joey Anderson, Kieffer Bellows, Ryan Lindgren and Jake Oettinger are among those looking to make their second appearance on the U.S. team. Joining them at camp from their home state will be Mikey Anderson, Casey Mittelstadt, Scott Perunovich, Ryan Poehling, Dylan Samberg and Riley Tufte.

The players selected to the 2018 U.S. World Junior team will have several unique opportunities to make their mark on World Junior history. They will participate in the first ever outdoor game in tournament play when the United States takes on Canada at New Era Field on Dec. 29, 2017, and they will have a chance to become the first U.S. team to win gold on home soil as well as secure the first back-to-back titles ever for the U.S.

For the full roster and training camp schedule, click here.