There were an event-record 10 Minnesotans at this year’s USA Hockey All-American Prospects Game, an annual event featuring the top 42 American-born prospects eligible for the upcoming NHL Draft. While it was a special opportunity for all of the players selected, these local prospects had the chance to play in front of their friends and family on a rink they’ve dreamed of playing at growing up.

For a few Minnesotans playing in this year’s game, they had plenty of experience playing at the home of the Minnesota Wild. That included Edina native Ben Brinkman, who skated at the Xcel Energy Center ice in March in the Minnesota State High School League state tournament with his Edina High School teammates.

“I’ve been out here before, but it’s just always a fun time,” said Brinkman, who is entering his freshman season with the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers. “It’s just a really cool rink and the atmosphere is always great. It was great to be a part of this unique event and play with some of the guys that will be called along with me at the draft next year.”

For other locals, it was a new experience. This was the case for Michael Koster, a Chaska native. Wednesday’s game was his first time ever skating at an arena he dreamed of playing at when he was a kid.

“As a 3- or 4-year old, you’re wanting to be out here on this ice,” Koster said. “, It’s unbelievable, we all really take this opportunity to heart.”

The same can be said about this year’s coaches — Langenbrunner and Jordan Leopold, who hails from nearby Golden Valley. They grew up playing in Minnesota and still call the state home.

Following the game, all of the players headed back to their individual teams. Four Minnesotans — Donovan, Huglen, Koster and Pinoniemi — head back to their high school teams. For them, the goal is to end up back at Xcel Energy Center in March for the boys’ state tournament.

“I get butterflies when talking about this place,” Koster said. “You get that hometown crowd here every time and a lot of people are watching. It’s really exciting.”

As Minnesotans themselves that went on to have successful careers in the NHL, Langenbrunner and Leopold understand what it’s like to play in your home state. They tried to remind all of the players just how special an opportunity like this is.

“You don’t always get a lot of opportunities to play in front of your hometown. As you get older, those chances can be fewer and fewer,” Langenbrunner said. “Regardless, you’re going to have nerves. It’s a different situation. For me, it’s about being part of anything with USA Hockey. It’s an honor.”

Story from Red Line Editorial, Inc.