[NASHWAUK, MN] – Mesabi Metallics Company LLC (Mesabi Metallics) is proud to sponsor bus transportation for the Grand Rapids Thunderhawks and the Hibbing–Chisholm Bluejackets as both boys hockey teams compete in the 2026 Minnesota State High School Boys Hockey Tournament in Saint Paul this week.
“Mesabi Metallics is proud to support these athletes and the determination, perseverance and pride they bring to every game,” said Joe Broking, President & CEO of Mesabi Metallics. “We’re honored to help both the Thunderhawks and the Bluejackets as they chase their dreams at the state tournament. As a former hockey coach, my advice to both teams is simple: Trust your training, trust your teammates and leave it all out on the ice. You’ve earned this, and the Range is behind you every moment.”
“We’re incredibly grateful to Mesabi Metallics for stepping up to support our team,” said Grant Clafton, Head Coach of the Grand Rapids Thunderhawks boys hockey team. “Funding our transportation makes a real difference for our players and families and allows us to focus on preparing for the games ahead. Our players have worked unbelievably hard this season, and we’re ready to go show the rest of the state what the Iron Range is made of.”
“We appreciate Mesabi Metallics’ commitment to sports in our region,” said Aaron Jamnick, Head Coach of the Hibbing–Chisholm Bluejackets boys hockey team. “This sponsorship shows our players that the community is behind them, and we’re excited to represent Hibbing and Chisholm at the state tournament.”
Both teams have demonstrated excellence throughout the season, earning their places in the state tournament and bringing excitement and pride to communities across Minnesota’s Iron Range. Mesabi Metallics is covering the cost of bus transportation to ensure that players, cheerleaders, coaches and support staff can travel safely and comfortably to the tournament.
The state tournament will be held March 4–7 at Grand Casino Arena in Saint Paul, where Minnesota’s top high school hockey teams will battle for a state championship.
Hibbing–Chisholm (Class A) will open tournament play on Wednesday, March 4 at 11:00 a.m. against Dodge County. Grand Rapids (Class AA) will take the ice on Thursday, March 5 at 1:00 p.m. against Rosemount. With wins, both teams would advance to semifinal play on Friday, March 6.
