I’m writing this just in awe.

The Minnesota State Boys Hockey Tournament is such an event. Two overtime championship games. Epic comebacks. People from other places are amazed by it, but they don’t totally get it. It’s hard to describe.

There were 20,000 people at the semifinal game on Friday night. The waiting list for season tickets is 10 years. I’ve had mine for 25 years, and my uncle even longer.

It’s a weekend where you see friends everywhere.

You see the unbridled joy of kids skating to celebrate with their friends and their community. Hockey is something we do here. It’s not always perfect, but the community aspect of it is amazing.

Yes, there’s politics in high school hockey. But watching my son play with his lifelong friends was special—and that’s why our tournament is so special.

Oh yeah, and one more thing.

It’s a family day. I miss going with my dad, but I love going with my son and my Uncle Steve. It’s basically a two-day school holiday and a mandatory day off.

If you’ve never been—go.

And one more thing to remember when watching or commenting on these games—or any games for that matter: these are kids. Don’t judge them if they disappoint you. They are doing the best they can.

Community. Connection. Care. Traditions.

That’s mental fitness.