Coming into this season, there were many unknowns for the West Virginia University hockey club. New Coaches, New Players, and a higher expectation of success. During the early season, many of those questions were answered resoudingly. With the solidified culture of commitment and elevated expectations, not all players could keep up. What was left was a committed group of skilled hockey players that orchestrated a stunning start to the 16-17 season. Captain Matt Strober has paced the team and has become the vocal and spiritual leader the team has been looking for. Captain Strober has compiled some memorable early season performances. Notably a 5 goal effort in a gutsy comeback victory over CHE opponent Robert Morris and chipped in 3 assists and stellar play in all 3 zones in a win over Atlantic Region foe Maryland. While our Captain has been the catalyst, he isn't alone. Usual linemate Mike McElhenny has been a major contributor and was nothing short of inspired versus Robert Morris. Assistant Captain Brian Dickman has matured into the quiet, consistent leader and contributor that the team envisioned 3 years ago. His solid play has been critical for the team. Our other Assistant Captain, Ben Monroe, picked up where he left off last season, with a stunning OT goal to beat PSU-Altoona. Veteran Forwards Jason Conroy and Matt Epperly have stepped up their play and have also added timely goal scoring to their arsenal. Conroy finally seems to be develpping onto the offensive catalyst he was projected to be. Freshamn Jake Cooper has added to this offensive machine as of late and Greg Pointek and Matt  Brestensky have added skill to the lineup and provided the sorely lacking depth.

Aside from the timely and explosive offense, the revamped defense has been lights out. Freshman Jacob Morris has become the true #1 defenseman the team has been sorely lacking and has lead this talented defensive corp. Fellow Freshman Eric Dickman has been the quiet, steady performer that any winning team requires and Senior Brett Dolan has adapted to the switch back to defense and has been phenomenal as has his partner Wyatt Hughes, who's dynamic skill set makes a formidable pairing with Dolan. Both players have added punishing physicality to the defensive zone.

Once again, goaltending has been a strength, Bryce Guay ourplayed one of the best goaltenders on the schedule as he shut out St Vincent and Hunter Ivey has provided critical veteran leadership. Garrett DiPeppo rounds out this strong goaltending corp earning a huge victory over Maryland. 

Your Mountaineers are back in action this weekend as they travel to Altoona for a rematch with PSU and come home Saturday for a huge division showdown with perrenial league power CalU. Don't miss the action. Get your tickets today!