For Brookfield, this is their first trip to the state tournament since 1997. The Stars have won 14 of their last 15 and are as hot as anyone in the field.

They are led offensively by senior forward Max Hoffman (14g-20a). The heavily senior-led club also features Patrick O'Brien (15g-13a) and P.J. Corbett (17g-11a) on the front line. Junior Carter Jenkins (12g-13a) adds scoring punch.

Senior star Matt Fosdick (17g-17a) and classmate Brandt Rogers (12g-23a) lead the blue line crew. Sophomore Robbie Fosdick (4g-21a) follows closely in his older brother's footsteps.

In net, sophomore J.J. Murnane (2.75 GAA, .884 save%) had a solid season, but is on fire in the playoffs, sporting a .958 save% (68 of 71).

On the other side of the ice, the Eau Claire Memorial Old Abes will be making their 12th appearance, including their perfect 2008 season.

On the forward line, the Abes are led by seniors Matthew Knapp (18g-28a) and Brady Burzynski (16g-22a). Also playing key roles are sophomore Charley Graaskamp (14g-26a) and junior Brady Bollinger (15g-18a).

Star junior Michael Kapla (7g-39a) is one of the best around on defense. Juniors Jake Sparger (8g-10a) and Nate Pientok (3g-5a) know how to play the game.

Seniors Dan Hanna (2.05 GAA, .909 save%) and Killy Kitzmann (2.55 GAA, .885 save%) split time during the season, but Hanna has gotten most of the playing time as of late.

BOTTOM LINE: The Abes have been here before, but did they peak too soon? The Stars, on the other hand, have learned how to win and have won a couple of big games in the last week or so.

Trasher's prediction: Brookfield 5, Eau Claire Memorial 4 (OT)