The Minnesota high school hockey community is mourning the loss of David La Vaque, a veteran Star Tribune sports reporter who died at 50 after an 18‑month struggle with a neurodegenerative disorder.
A career defined by dedication
La Vaque began his journalism journey at the University of Minnesota’s Minnesota Daily, where he honed the storytelling skills that later made him a staple on the high school beat. Since 2009 he became the primary beat reporter for high school hockey, chronicling the rise of dozens of teams and players, and co‑authoring the book “Tourney Time,” a comprehensive look at the first 75‑plus years of the Minnesota boys state hockey tournament.
A personal legacy
Friends and family described La Vaque as a devoted father to his daughter Michaela, whose joy he often cited as his greatest inspiration. His humor brightened newsrooms and the sidelines alike, and his respect for coaches and athletes earned him a reputation for professionalism and warmth.
A lasting impact
The Minnesota State High School League and the University of Minnesota both issued statements honoring his contributions, noting that his work helped shape the narrative of the sport for a generation. ESPN’s “E:60” feature on hockey hair highlighted his presence at the 2026 state tournament, where he served as an honorary captain for the Northern Lakes team. Though his voice will be missed, the records he kept, the stories he told, and the relationships he forged will continue to guide the next wave of reporters and players across Minnesota.