Sioux Falls, S.D. — The Sioux Falls Stampede hit the ice for their first preseason action of the 2025–26 campaign this past weekend, taking part in the Western Conference Shootout in Sioux City, I.A.
The Herd opened preseason play Friday afternoon against the Omaha Lancers at the Tyson Event Center. Omaha struck quickly, taking the lead just 1:04 into the game. Sioux Falls responded in force behind 2005-born Swede Viktor Eriksson, who recorded a natural hat trick before the first intermission. Thomas Zooco added another tally in the second to give the Stampede a 4–2 lead.

The momentum carried into the third when defenseman Dane Sorensen scored just 44 seconds in. After trading goals midway through the frame, Omaha stormed back with three goals in a span of 1:05 to tie the game. The Lancers completed the comeback in overtime, netting the winner on a breakaway at 2:22 of the extra period.

With a new lineup chat, the Stampede returned to the Tyson Event Center Saturday night for a primetime showdown with the Sioux City Musketeers. Brent Solomon gave Sioux Falls an early lead just 2:05 into the first period, but a defensive breakdown led to three Musketeer goals.

The Herd regrouped in the second, reclaiming the lead with goals from Cooper Soller, Adyn Merrick, and Nick Snyder. Sioux Falls then dominated the third, lighting the lamp four more times. Soller added his second tally at 2:43, and veterans Joseph McGraw and J.J. Monteiro added to the surge. Newcomer Justin Thibault recorded his first goal of the preseason, finishing out the Stampede's electric 8-3 victory. 

The Herd continue  preseason play this week with a home-and-home against the Fargo Force. After Thursday's road matchup in North Dakota, the Stampede will host their lone home preseason contest Saturday at the Scheels IcePlex. Puck drop is set for 6:05 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash or card). Concessions and select discounted merchandise will also be available.