The South Suburban Jets adapted floor hockey team won the state championship on Feb. 28 at Jefferson High School. The team defeated the Mankato Knights 11-2 to claim the CI (cognitively impaired) title. It’s the team’s first state championship in adapted hockey since 1995.

The team dominated the tournament scoring 34 goals over the course of three games. Kennedy junior and goalie Josh Ruz gave up only seven goals during the tournament.

“It feels really good. I like to be with my team and work with them. I’m really proud of the team,” said Ruz in his post-game interview with BEC-TV.

“I’m happy for the kids. Maybe it was the home court magic, but coach Chris [Tomberlin] and I both felt we might have a shot,” said coach Aaron Walton. “Now we see that we did because the kids worked hard and put forth their best effort.”

The South Suburban Flyers finished fourth in the PI (physically impaired) adapted hockey tournament.

Senior Prince Yeakehson, Jr. (JHS), Ruz and Edina teammate Easton Anderson from the Jets were named to the CI All-Tournament team. Senior James Trenary (KHS) and teammate JJ Morgan from the Flyers were named to the PI All-Tournament team.

The Jets and Flyers both include students from Bloomington, Edina, Eden Prairie and Richfield schools. 

Watch the CI State Championship Game