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PROCTOR — Former Proctor-Hermantown defenseman Kennedy Erickson has been named head coach of the Mirage, the program announced today. She succeeds Emma Stauber, who stepped down in May after guiding the Mirage to six consecutive Minnesota State High School League state tournament appearances, including the 2021 Class A state championship.
Erickson brings a combination of playing experience, familiarity with the program and a background in player development to the position. A member of the Mirage from 2013-18, she totaled 46 career points on seven goals and 39 assists while helping establish the program as one of northeastern Minnesota's perennial contenders.
She continued her playing career at the College of St. Scholastica, where she appeared in 37 games before transitioning into coaching. Most recently, Erickson served as an assistant coach with the Mirage U15A team, working with many of the players who will eventually move into the varsity program.
The hire continues the program's tradition of developing leaders from within. Erickson becomes the latest former Mirage player to return and help shape the next generation of student-athletes.
The Mirage finished the 2025-26 season with a 20-7-2 record and qualified for the Class A state tournament for a sixth consecutive season, cementing its place among Minnesota's elite girls hockey programs.
In addition to her coaching responsibilities, Erickson is a fire inspector with the Duluth Fire Department.
Erickson inherits a program with championship expectations and a strong returning foundation as the Mirage prepares for the 2026-27 season. Her experience as both a former player and youth coach is expected to provide continuity while allowing her to build on the culture that has made Proctor-Hermantown one of the state's most successful girls hockey programs.
