Stillwater, Minnesota, boasts a rich and diverse sports culture that caters to athletes of all ages and interests. From competitive high school teams to inclusive community programs, there’s something for everyone in our town.
High School Athletics
Stillwater Area High School is renowned for its robust athletic programs. The school offers a wide array of sports, including baseball, basketball, football, ice hockey, lacrosse, soccer, volleyball, and wrestling for boys; and basketball, ice hockey, lacrosse, soccer, softball, and volleyball for girls. The Ponies have a storied history, with numerous state championships to their name. For instance, since 1913, Stillwater teams have secured 55 Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) State Championships. The school’s commitment to excellence is evident in its state-of-the-art facilities, such as the 101,955 square-foot Spike Zone Pro turf field installed in 2016.
Another notable institution, St. Croix Preparatory Academy, offers a comprehensive athletics program that includes baseball, basketball, football, and soccer for boys; and basketball, lacrosse, soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball for girls. The school’s affiliation with the MSHSL ensures that students have opportunities to compete at high levels while fostering teamwork and discipline.
Community Sports Programs
Beyond the high school scene, Stillwater provides numerous community sports programs that promote health, wellness, and camaraderie.
The Stillwater Mountain Bike Team is a prime example. Founded in 2013 with just 26 student-athletes, the team has grown to over 90 members and boasts seven state championships. Catering to students from 6th to 12th grade, the team balances competition with fun, ensuring that the camaraderie and friendships developed around riding last a lifetime. Mountain biking is a fall sport, with races from August to October and training starting each July.
For those interested in cycling, Chilkoot Velo promotes group cycling and community in the St. Croix Valley. Since 2009, they’ve been uniting cyclists of all skill levels for group rides, social events, and competitive challenges. With over 100 annual rides tailored to different paces and styles, there’s a place for everyone—from casual riders to seasoned athletes.
Adaptive sports are also gaining traction in Stillwater. Limitless Cycling is an adaptive outdoor program dedicated to enhancing the mental and physical well-being of the community. They empower individuals of all abilities to experience the outdoors by providing piloted adaptive bicycle and Action Trackchair® rides.
Sports Facilities
Stillwater is home to several top-notch sports facilities that cater to a variety of activities. The St. Croix Valley Recreation Center is a multi-purpose facility featuring a 363′ x 245′ dome field house and two NHL-style ice sheets. It offers open walk/run sessions, open field sessions, open skating, open hockey, group skating lessons, and freestyle ice. The center is dedicated to delivering services that meet the needs of the community, providing a fun, clean, family-friendly environment.
Another notable facility is The LumberYard Hockey & Sports Center. This sports training, recreation, and retail destination offers a variety of programs and activities for teams and individual athletes involved in hockey, lacrosse, soccer, baseball, and other sports. The facility includes a studio ice rink, goalie training rink, fieldhouse/turf area, skating treadmill, shooting/puckhandling area, full gym, viewing deck, meeting rooms, lounge with concession area, and a retail sporting goods store.
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or looking to try something new, Stillwater’s sports scene offers a wealth of opportunities to get involved, stay active, and be part of a vibrant community.