Assistant Coach Greg Casados, William Nettleton, Assistant Coach John Dunwoody, Jaxon Kelley, Rowan Mowrer, David Vargas, Luke Johnson, Aiden Stow, Milo Naes, Angus Smith, Thomas DeVargas, Lance Metcalf, Landyn Cisneros, Colton Berg, Aiden Alley, Head Coach Lyle Grove and Assistant Coach Justin Paschke. Front row: (Goalie) Knox DeGroot. Courtesy photo

BY TRISH ALLEY
18U LAHA Team Manager

The Los Alamos Hilltopper varsity hockey team claimed its second consecutive state championship yesterday in Santa Fe in dramatic fashion, defeating El Paso 2–1 in sudden-death overtime.

The Hilltoppers capped off an extraordinary tournament run by finishing undefeated — the only team to do so — and sealing the title with a thrilling overtime goal that sent players and fans into celebration.

After a tight regulation battle ended in a 1–1 tie, Los Alamos and El Paso headed into sudden-death overtime with the championship on the line.The Hilltoppers delivered when it mattered most, scoring the game-winning goal to secure the 2–1 victory and defend their state title.

With another state trophy heading back to Los Alamos, the Hilltoppers have firmly established themselves as a powerhouse program — and a team that rises to the occasion when the stakes are highest.

Congratulations to the 2025-2026 State champions!!