Desert Christian Academy takes title at USA Hockey National Championships

COACHELLA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) – Desert Christian Academy hockey went from first to, well, first.

In their first year as a program, the Conquerors are national champions after taking the title at the Chipotle-USA Hockey High School National Championships in Plymouth, Minnesota on Sunday.

In their first year, Desert Christian Academy are national champions. Pretty incredible inaugural season for Palm Springs Hockey Association and their founder Justin Reynolds, back in the desert after winning a national title in Minnesota yesterday. @KESQ @kendallkesq pic.twitter.com/yXMC3cX0Px

— Blake Arthur (@BlakeArthur24) March 23, 2026

Desert Christian, partnered with the new Palm Springs Hockey Academy, earned its ticket to nationals after taking the state championship in January. News Channel 3 caught up with the team before their trip to Minnesota, you can find the full story HERE.

The Conquerors defeated Nest Hockey (Florida) 3-1 in the final. It was a team they also faced in their opening run in the 3A division, taking the win then as well at 5-4.

Jack Barckholtz was the first to put Desert Christian in the lead at 8:03 in the second. Over 16 minutes later, Gavin Gills scored on a powerplay at 8:17 in the third. Carsen Somers put a bow on the Conquerors scoring, sealing the win, with just 37 seconds to go.

Somers finished with team high statistics for Desert Christian with five goals and six assists.

Stay with News Channel 3 for continuing coverage of local high school sports.