The Fresno Monsters are coming back to the USPHL Nationals after two years out! Fresno will make their third trip to the big dance since first making it in 2021 and again in 2022. They will begin their Nationals run on Thursday, March 20, in Wayne, N.J. They defeated the Ontario Jr. Reign, 7-4, on Friday night to close out a 2-0 series victory.
Filipp Papshev scored two goals and added two assists to lead the Monsters. Sebastian Westerlund, Emil Hagg and Connor Perdue each scored a goal and two assists. Tyson Baumbach and Simon Eriksson each had multiple points, as well. Brooks Barofsky made 42 saves on 46 shots for the win.
Fresno won the regular season title and drew the No. 4 seed Henderson Force as their first round opponent. They swept that series, and went on to win their first game 5-2 to set up Friday night’s championship victory.
“Winning the Pacific Division Championship is an incredible moment for our team and organization. This is our third trip to Nationals as Pacific Champs, but my first championship as a coach, and I couldn’t be prouder of this group,” said Head Coach Daylon Mannon.
“Our mantra all season has been Pull the Rope — everyone committed, everyone pushing forward together. We played Monsters hockey — fast, skilled, and relentless — focusing on our strengths rather than letting opponents’ physicality dictate the game.
“Our stats speak for themselves, leading in points and discipline with the lowest penalty minutes,” added Mannon. “We handled business in two games each round and are putting in the work before heading to Nationals. I’m grateful for this opportunity, for our fans, families, and the unwavering support from our staff. We have the greatest organization, and it’s an honor to lead these players.”
