Ice Hawks finish 1-2 at high school state tourney

The Havre Ice Hawks high school hockey team went to Whitefish this past weekend chasing state championship glory. Unfortunately, Havre didn't quite get there.

At the Montana Amateur Hockey Association High School State Tournament Friday through Sunday, the Ice Hawks went 1-2 in pool play and didn't qualify for the semifinals, ending what was a strong season for Havre.

The Ice Hawks opened the state tournament with a 6-3 loss to the Bozeman Icedogs. Jacob Herring scored in the first period for Havre, but Bozeman scored four times in the second, while Justin Rosgaard scored to make the score 5-2 after two. Tavish McLean would tack on a goal in the third, but it was too little, too late for Havre, which got 17 saves from goalie Clara Holland.

Pool play continued Saturday, where the Ice Hawks lost to Helena 6-2. The Bighorns led 3-0 in the second period, before Havre got goals from Connor Moomey and McLean in the third. Helena added two more goals however to pull away. Holland saved 16 shots for the Ice Hawks.

Havre did come away with a win over the Miles City generals Saturday, as the Ice Hawks skated to a 7-2 victory. Goals from Herring, Jocelyn Staples and McLean gave the Ice Haws a 3-0 lead after one period. Bryce Shettel and McLean scored in the second period, while Kaine Black and Stephen Preputin added insurance goals in the third. Havre's defense was really good, too, allowing just 14 shots, with Holland making 12 saves.

The state tournament season is just getting started as the 10U A Havre team travels to Bozeman for state, the 10U B Havre team is in Miles City, and the 19U girls play at state in Bozeman, as well, this weekend.