This month, three talented local athletes embarked on a journey to Edmonton as members of an All-Star team, showcasing yet another testament to the triumph of hockey in Texas.

Participating in The Brick Invitational Hockey Tournament, Mina Chen, Beckett Lampman, and Braden Anderson were proud members of the Western Selects team. Although the team faced tough opponents from Canada and the US, resulting in a 1-5 record, the remarkable experience left a lasting impression on the 10-year-olds.

“The DFW market truly impressed me with the exceptionally high level of play,” expressed Nate Anderson, proud father of Braden, who serves as a goalie. “It’s mind-blowing to witness the remarkable abilities demonstrated by these young athletes. This achievement is a testament to the exceptional coaching and the overall caliber of coaches we have here.”

Nate’s hockey journey began during his childhood, whereas Braden’s initiation into the sport took place through the Learn to Skate program in McKinney, followed by the Little Rookies program. Lampman, on the other hand, had no family background in hockey but embarked on a similar path in Euless. Chen’s hockey career started in California but has witnessed significant progress since joining the Dallas Stars Elite program.

Lucas Reid, Vice President of Amateur Sports & Partnership Development, expressed his satisfaction, stating, “The feeling is incredible. We are making significant progress and cultivating talented players. This is an ongoing journey, and we are immensely content with our approach. We must maintain our momentum and we are firmly committed to doing so.”

The Brick trio serves as an excellent illustration. Initially, they competed in local select leagues and subsequently underwent a tryout process to join the Western Selects team. This team comprised players from Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington. The collective then traveled to Edmonton to participate in a tournament featuring 14 teams from the United States and Canada. Ultimately, the Detroit Jr. Red Wings emerged as the tournament champions. This experience proved to be eye-opening for the Texan players, as it was their first time traveling to Canada.

Lampman, who contributed with a goal and an assist in the tournament, praised their exceptional performance, stating, “They were truly impressive.”

Anderson expressed, “The level of play was elevated with superior athletes, heightened competitiveness, and a greater determination to secure possession of pucks.”

In addition, the environment showcased its uniqueness. Situated within the West Edmonton Mall, the ice rink resided under an expansive skylight, creating a warm and sunlit atmosphere for the players to compete in.

Chen, who scored three goals and provided one assist, commented, “The atmosphere was quite distinct inside. It was exceptionally bright, and the energy in the building was vibrant. The noise level was high, and the temperature was scorching.”

The glass barrier was positioned low, allowing parents and fans to engage with the players during their celebrations. Lampman cherished the moment when he scored a goal and received high fives from his parents, creating a treasured memory.

Stephanie, Lampman’s mom, mentioned that she informed him he would never be capable of doing that again.

Chen, an exceptional female player, stands out as one of the top talents in her age group. Initially, she began her journey in California alongside her brother and cousin. However, when her family relocated to Texas in 2022, it became crucial to find an environment that would foster Mina’s growth as a player.

“When we arrived here, our main goal was to ensure that she could compete at an older age group and focus on her overall growth,” expressed Kai, Mina’s father. “The coaches here have been incredibly supportive in her journey. It has been highly beneficial for her skill development and understanding of the game.”

Nate Anderson greatly acknowledges the Stars for their efforts in establishing suburban rinks and a structured system that enables players to progress. The opportunity for free introductory skating provides a chance to explore the sport, while Little Rookies offers a more in-depth experience to determine if hockey is their preferred choice among other sports. Subsequently, the higher levels of play allow talented individuals to devote more time and gauge their potential for advancement.

Anderson explained that the credit for our access to the game belongs to the Stars, as they have paved the way for numerous children. This access doesn’t necessarily have to result in hyper-competitive hockey; it can also lead to participation in house leagues, high school programs, or adult leagues. It’s amusing how eventually, regardless of the path taken, everyone ends up playing in beer leagues.

Originally from Texas, the Lampman family had no previous experience with hockey. However, Beckett decided to try it out in Euless and ended up becoming passionate about it.

Justin Lampman expressed his surprise, stating, “This came out of nowhere for us since it’s completely new. It was quite fascinating because we had no prior knowledge about it.”

However, they swiftly acquired knowledge and are currently embarking on a journey across North America with their family. Excursions to Boston, Pittsburgh, and Detroit have been particularly enlightening for them.

Stephanie Lampman expressed her commitment to continuous learning in every city she visits. According to her, tournaments offer valuable chances for growth, not only in terms of athletic development but also educationally. Athletes are put to the test on the ice, and if they have the time, they can also explore the historical aspects of the city they are competing in.

Additionally, being a part of a team can provide a unique form of education. Mina Chen expressed her satisfaction in competing to secure victories, while acknowledging the valuable lessons that can be gleaned from handling defeats. In regards to the prospects for girls in the sport, Kai Chen stated that their family is presently focused on the immediate future.

Kai emphasized the importance of taking things slowly, focusing on one step and one year at a time. He highlighted how striving for improvement and personal growth are both valuable endeavors.

However, these experiences carry great significance. The Brick has seen the participation of notable Among the Stars players such as Tyler Seguin, Jason Robertson, and Wyatt Johnston, who have since been commemorated with plaques.

Braden’s discovery of the names of Stars players such as Wyatt Johnston and Jason Robertson left a lasting impression on him. “It’s pretty amazing that their names will be displayed forever,” Nate Anderson expressed.

DFW is home to numerous captivating hockey tales, and among them is the inspiring journey of Hanna Bilka. Born and raised in the area, Bilka’s remarkable skills on the ice recently earned her a draft spot in the PWHL with the Boston team. Additionally, she proudly represents Team USA in thrilling international competitions.

Bilka claimed that she trailed her brother to the rink, and Chen did exactly the same.

According to Jianna Chen, she was constantly seen as the younger sibling lingering around the rink. However, one day she made up her mind and expressed her desire to participate. Chen recalled her asking, “Can I do it as well?”

Mina Chen was ultimately chosen to participate in the grand finale, which showcased the best All-Stars from Canada and the USA. It served as an impeccable conclusion to her remarkable journey.

All levels in North Texas have made impressive progress, according to Eric Silverman, Director of Hockey/Coaches for the Dallas Junior Hockey Association.

According to Silverman, when you observe Hannah’s progress, it’s truly an inspiring success story. He believes that in every age group, we are witnessing continuous improvement. Silverman is confident that we are very close to achieving a significant breakthrough. He has faith in the abilities of our team to make a difference. Silverman predicts that players from Dallas will start getting drafted and playing in the NHL more frequently.

Although 10-year-olds are far from reaching that point, they are still included in the larger context. The parents from Texas expressed their satisfaction in engaging with parents from more conventional hockey communities at The Brick event.

Nate Anderson highlighted that when having conversations with Canadian or Michigan parents, they often express surprise at the idea of hockey in Texas. However, Anderson proudly points out that there are 17 ice rinks conveniently located within a 40-minute radius, all thanks to the efforts and influence of the Stars.

When you consider that the organization has put in immense effort to bring events such as the IIHF Under 18 World Championships in 2025, there are plenty of reasons to feel enthusiastic.

Reid expressed, “Teamwork is crucial. There’s always something positive happening around us. Participating in The Brick tournament is an honor, and it’s fantastic that a few of our youngsters had the opportunity to be a part of it. Let’s strive to progress further and achieve even greater things.”

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Hockey League or Dallas Stars Hockey Club.

Mike Heika is a Senior Staff Writer for DallasStars.com and has covered the Stars since 1994. Follow him on Twitter @MikeHeika.