The Minnesota State High School Hockey Tournament is not just about the games on the ice, but also about the epic display of “hockey hair” that takes center stage at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul. This unique tradition has become a spectacle in itself, with players going to great lengths to showcase their flowing locks in front of a global audience.
For many high school players in Minnesota, getting a mullet coifed before the state tournament is a rite of passage. The mullet, with its tight sides and elongated caboose, is the perfect hairstyle for achieving the coveted “flow” – when a player’s long hair billows out from under his helmet as he skates across the ice.
The pregame introductions at the tournament have turned into a competition of who can out-mullet their peers, with players vying for the title of best hockey hair. From bleach-blond manes to leopard print hairdos, the creativity and dedication to the cause are unmatched.
Players like Kaden Larson and Bryer Lang have gone above and beyond to perfect their hockey hair, with Larson even making it to Mr. King’s Top 10 list for his majestic mane. And while some may have reservations about their new looks, the payoff is undeniable as their hair takes center stage in highlight videos and social media posts.
Ultimately, the state tournament is not just about winning games, but also about having fun and bonding with teammates. As coach Ryan Neuman puts it, these high school kids deserve to let loose and enjoy the experience, even if it means rocking a questionable mustache or a daring new hairstyle.
In the end, hockey hair has become a beloved tradition that adds an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to an already thrilling tournament. And for the players who participate, it’s not just about the games, but also about showcasing their unique personalities and style on the biggest stage in high school hockey.
