Edina 12U A
Season Recap
The bus rolled up to the Stillwater Recreation Center on Friday, March 13 around 11 am. On board were 17 players from Edina U12A and head Coach Scott Bowlby. With a “Whatever It Takes” attitude, the team was ready to leave it all on the ice. Edina knew they faced fierce competition, but after five months of practices & games requiring hard work, grit, dedication, attention to detail and determination, the team was ready.
Earning your spot on Edina 12U A, led by non-parent coaches Scott Bowlby & Dave Horan, isn’t an easy feat. The spot comes with high expectations. These young athletes had been pushed farther than they’d been pushed before both physically & mentally. As they learned to play together as a team, there were a few bumps and a few losses. However, their hard work and hockey smarts paid off resulting in these notable season highlights: Duluth Icebreaker 12U A champs, along with the 2020 CAN/AM Tier 1 Tourney Champions. Additionally, Edina U12A earned the triple title of District 6 League Champions, District 6 Tournament Champions and East Region Champions. The team came into the State Tournament with a 35-game winning streak, something the team celebrated yet realized the next game would require even more effort and grit to continue the streak.
As the players were getting ready to unload the bus, they learned they’d already played their last game. They were devastated. That moment will be a story they tell throughout their lives.
Part of the story will include that Edina wasn’t alone. They stand together with the other outstanding 12U A teams who felt equally devastated after earning their spot in the state tournament in the State of Hockey. It’s often been said there can only be one winner, However, the 2020 Minnesota Hockey State Tournament has proved otherwise. Congratulations to Andover, Delano, North Wright County, OMGHA, Proctor-Hermantown, Rosemount and Woodbury on earning your way to the State Tournament. We feel honored to be in your company. Each of you is a champion.
Edina 12U A players past and present want to recognize coaches Scott Bowlby & Dave Horan who, after 10 years of coaching at the Edina 12U A level, are retiring. There is a direct link between the Edina 12U A program over the year, the success of the 15U teams and Edina High School girl’s hockey programs. Most importantly, the lessons these girls learned from you on the ice & in the locker room will carry them forward in the very best way throughout their lives. Thank you!