Faribault and Northfield Hockey Participating In Bridge League Play

While prep hockey, governed by the Minnesota State High School League, doesn't begin until December, there are some Minnesota high school teams that are getting in some games before then. Bridge league play will begin November 6 and runs through November 22. So far there are 39 teams throughout the state participating in the short season.

According to legacy.hockey "The bridge season is sanctioned by Minnesota Hockey in cooperation with the Minnesota Hockey Coaches Association. It serves as something of a replacement for the missed weeks and games — a “bridge” until the delayed start of the MSHSL season"

Faribault and Northfield are listed as participating teams, along with other Big 9 schools, Red Wing and Winona. Rochester Lourdes is also listed as a participating school.

The Faribault Hockey Association varsity boys calendar indicates games on November 8, 9, 12, 15, 19, and an open games on the 21st.

Northfield's Hockey Association hasn't added any events beyond November 1st to their calendar.

While prep players for area high schools can play in the league, their high school coaches are not eligible to coach the team, according to the same legacy.hockey post. 

MSHSL boys hockey can begin practice on November 23rd, with the first contest not being allowed until December 3rd according to the MSHSL website. Girls' varsity hockey practice can begin November 30th, and the first game is allowed to be played on December 10th. Both boys and girls varsity hockey teams will be limited to only 18 regular season games.

Back to the bridge league, it would be interesting if the MSHSL were to cancel winter sports, as the league could open back up and hold another 'season' and possible tournament that sees the higher-seeded team hosting games at their home arena.