Young Raiders Find Their Stride Heading Into Section Play

Coming into the 2025–26 season, the Cretin-Derham Hall girls hockey team found itself in unfamiliar territory. The Raiders were young—very young—and largely inexperienced at the varsity level after graduating a strong senior class a year ago.

That group was led by Abby Broz ’25, who is now continuing her hockey career at the Division I level with Franklin Pierce University. With that core gone, this season’s roster featured six ninth graders and ten sophomores competing in the always challenging Suburban East Conference.

Despite the inexperience, head coach Tony Scheid did not shy away from elite competition. Staying true to his philosophy, the Raiders scheduled a demanding non-conference slate that included defending state champion Hill-Murray, along with Gentry Academy, Eden Prairie, Grand Rapids, and Blake.

After a slow start, the Raiders have found their rhythm. The team has caught fire in recent weeks with impressive wins over section opponents Eastview, Eagan, and Park—results that have positioned Cretin-Derham Hall for a potential top-three seed in the upcoming section playoffs.

Leading the offensive charge is forward Channing Haycraft ’27, who tops the team with 19 points on 10 goals and 9 assists. Equally impactful has been the play of goaltender Grace Kemp ’26, who has delivered stellar performances between the pipes. Kemp currently owns a 1.70 goals-against average and an outstanding .955 save percentage, ranking fourth best in the state.

“This group has grown tremendously since the start of the season,” said head coach Tony Scheid. “We knew we were going to be young, but their work ethic, competitiveness, and willingness to learn have been outstanding. They’ve earned everything they’ve accomplished so far, and we’re excited about where this team is heading as we move into section play.”

The Raiders will begin section play on February 4. Game times and opponents will be announced and updated on the Cretin-Derham Hall website and across the school’s social media platforms.