Hagen Burrows, a Tampa Bay Lightning 4th round pick #128, is currently playing for the Denver Pioneers in NCAA hockey. Photo: Burrows Family
Minnetonka’s Hagen Burrows joins the Denver Pioneers’ rookie class as a forward.
For over 30 years, talented high school seniors across Minnesota have been named Mr. Hockey by the Minnesota All Sports Alliance. This year’s winner is Minnetonka High School alum Hagen Burrows, who now plays for the University of Denver Pioneers.
“The transition is definitely a big one,” Burrows says regarding the change from high school hockey to the NCAA. “Hockey in college is much faster, more physical and more skilled.” He credits his teammates and the coaching staff with making the transition easier.
Burrows is one of five incoming freshmen who represent the University of Denver for the 2024-2025 season, but he started 2024 on a strong note, garnering recognition with the Mr. Hockey award in March.
(Left to Right) Sean Goldsworthy, Minnetonka Skippers head coach; Hagen Burrows, Minnetonka Mr. Hockey 2024; Marty Mjelleli, chairman of the Mr. Hockey Award. Photo: Connor Ryan, Sioux City Musketeers
“The impact of this prestigious honor—whether [the players] win or are named a finalist—stays with them forever,” says Marty Mejelleli, chairman of the Mr. Hockey Award. “It’s exciting for not only the family, but [for] the community they represent. All the years of hard work, dedication and commitment to playing their senior year should be celebrated.”
Finalists are chosen by various media panels and are voted on by the Minnesota All Sports Alliance. “Scouts look for high character, leadership in the community and leading by example to be a good teammate on and off the ice,” Mejelleli says.
We connected with Burrows to reflect on his hockey career so far.
What is one highlight from your time so far as a Denver Pioneer?
So far at Denver the highlight is being on the ice during the banner-raising ceremony. While I wasn’t a part of the team that did it, it was surreal watching the ceremony take place and knowing that it is the tradition of the program as we look to raise another this year.
What is one highlight from your high school career?
HB: The biggest highlight of my high school career was the state championships in 2023. To go through that experience with my best friends is a memory I will have forever. The countless hours that go into winning that trophy and [having] the ability to say I had the experience of winning it is an extremely cool feeling.
What was it like to win the Mr. Hockey Award?
HB: Winning the Mr. Hockey award is a huge honor. Growing up in Minnesota, you watch the guys who win it from a young age. To be able to be a part of the tradition and history of the award is a surreal experience and a true honor.
What goals do you have?
HB: Moving forward I hope to win a national championship in my time at Denver and continue to progress my abilities so that, one day, I hopefully have the opportunity to play professional hockey.
Minnesota All Sports Alliance
Facebook: Mr Hockey Award
Instagram: @mrhockeyminnesota
