USA Hockey has officially announced its roster for the National Team Development Program (NTDP) Under-17 Team, and once again, Minnesota will be well represented. Six Minnesotans have earned a spot on the prestigious team, including an impressive group of four defensemen. Notably, for the fourth consecutive year, a player from Moorhead has been selected, a testament to the strong development culture in Moorhead. Props are due to the coaches, programs, and families that have played a pivotal role in helping these players reach this achievement.
Minnesota Selections to the 2025 NTDP U17 Team:
- Nolan Fitzhenry – Forward, Shattuck-St. Mary’s U16 (Andover)
- Ben Geiger – Defense, Northfield High School (Northfield)
- Easton Johnson – Defense, Sioux Falls U16 (Luverne)
- Freddie Schneider – Forward, Edina High School (Edina)
- Carson Scott – Defense, Hill-Murray High School (Dayton)
- Beck Thoreson – Defense, Moorhead Bantam AA (Moorhead)
Player Profiles:
Nolan Fitzhenry
A dynamic forward with elite puck skills, Fitzhenry made headlines this season by leading the powerhouse Shattuck-St. Mary’s U16 team in scoring. He recorded an incredible 87 points in just 54 games, helping propel Shattuck to a USA Hockey 16U National Championship. Fitzhenry’s speed, creativity, and offensive instincts make him one of the most exciting forwards in the 2009 birth year.
Freddie Schneider
Schneider is a high-IQ, playmaking forward with elite vision. He tallied 44 points in 31 games this season for Edina High School. A proven winner, Freddie has captured both a Bantam AA State Championship and a Minnesota High School State Championship with Edina. He’s known for elevating his game in key moments and making his teammates better.
Carson Scott
Scott is a reliable, poised defenseman who brings size and responsible play to the blue line. He posted 2 goals and 10 assists in 28 games for Hill-Murray High School this season. Carson’s calm presence under pressure and his steady decision-making will be key assets for the U.S. defensive corps.
Ben Geiger
Geiger brings an impressive mix of hockey sense and offensive flair to the back end. This season, he broke the Northfield High School single-season scoring record for a defenseman with 22 goals and 66 points. His ability to control the pace of play and quarterback the power play makes him a valuable two-way contributor.
Beck Thoreson
A tall, lanky left-shot defenseman, Thoreson is known for his fluid skating and strong gap control. He keeps attackers to the outside and is highly effective at transitioning the puck through both passing and skating. His size, mobility, and poise make him a strong shutdown presence with upside.
Easton Johnson
Johnson is a smooth, balanced skater who uses his edges well to escape pressure and support the play. He’s a strong puck mover who makes crisp, accurate passes and shows great awareness on the ice. His mobility and vision will fit perfectly into the NTDP’s fast-paced style of play.
With six standout players heading to Plymouth, Michigan to join the NTDP U17 squad, Minnesota once again proves why it’s considered one of the premier hockey states in the country. This group not only represents individual excellence but also the strength and depth of Minnesota’s youth hockey development system.
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