After a series of section wins for St. Paul United, the team is headed to the Excel Energy Center for the fourth year in a row. Though it’s become regular practice for the team to qualify for the state tournament, this season they weren’t necessarily considered a shoe-in. They are the only team in the tournament with a losing record, finishing the season with 13 losses and 12 wins. Though the record is losing by small margins, the label gives the team more to overcome as they head into the first round of the tournament.

Under new coaching staff players had a new dynamic to work with. After getting used to the new coaches, the team was able to find more success as they neared the end of their season. They hope to continue this momentum into the state tournament where they are matched up against #1 seed Warroad. St. Paul United is seeded at #8

“The game is going to be really exciting, very competitive, and fast paced. We need to show up confident and place as a team,” senior Kenzie Giese said.

The team held an abbreviated practice beginning at 2:30 to get in some last minute drills before heading off to a banquet for all of the teams competing in the state tournament beginning tomorrow. The short practice left players feeling rushed to get to the banquet, which lasted three hours, but ultimately was successful in establishing the confident and positive attitude that the team needs heading into this difficult match up. They have their record and the rankings working against them as they attempt to defeat Warroad.

St. Paul United plays at 6 p.m. on Feb. 21 against Warroad at the Excel Energy Center. Fans can purchase tickets at the door for $11. The game’s theme is “pajama out,” and players are hoping to see fans filling the arena donning their most comfortable clothes.