Rochester Teams Set for Opening Match in Hockey Day Minnesota Week

URGENT UPDATE: Two Rochester hockey teams are set to kick off Hockey Day Minnesota 2026 with a thrilling opening match on Saturday, January 17, 2026. The Century/John Marshall boys hockey team will face off against rival Mayo at the United Heroes League rink in Hastings at 10 a.m., marking the start of a week-long celebration of Minnesota’s beloved sport.

This event, which has evolved into an annual tradition over its 18 years, will feature a total of 23 games at the UHL rink, beginning with this exciting rivalry match. Century coach Matt Erredge was instrumental in securing this opportunity, expressing his hope for Rochester’s involvement in the festivities. After discussions with Jeff Taffe, a Hastings native and former NHL player, the matchup was finalized, with both teams eager to showcase their skills on this prestigious stage.

Erredge shared his vision, stating, “If we can get involved in that week somehow, it’d be an awesome thing for Rochester hockey.” His enthusiasm was matched by Mayo coach Matt Notermann, who emphasized the importance of unique experiences for his players. “This is what it’s about, finding ways to make some memories and have some fun,” Notermann said.

The game is particularly special as it will serve not only as a competitive match but also as a home game for Century/JM, further enhancing the significance for both teams. Following this opener, the two teams will meet again for a regular-season game on December 11, 2025, at Graham Arena in Rochester.

In addition to the opening match, the Rochester Grizzlies will also participate in Hockey Day Minnesota week, playing against the Granite City Lumberjacks on January 23, 2026, just before the Iowa Wild faces the Milwaukee Admirals that same day. This back-to-back lineup promises an action-packed week for hockey fans and local communities.

As excitement builds around this unique event, Erredge noted the importance of quality officiating for the game, securing a local officiating crew to ensure a top-notch experience. “We’re kind of the guinea pigs, playing the first game of the week there,” Erredge remarked, highlighting the anticipation surrounding the event.

The games will be broadcast live on the FanDuel Sports Network, providing a platform for both teams to reach a wider audience. With the spotlight on Hastings and Rochester, this is an opportunity for players to create lasting memories in their hockey careers.

What’s Next: Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for further updates as the full schedule for Hockey Day Minnesota week is released. More details, including ticket information and additional matchups, can be found at HockeyDayMN.com. Don’t miss out on the excitement and support your local teams as they compete in this historic event!