By: Madison Field

September 18, 2018

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COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio State University men’s hockey club locked in its roster for the 2018-19 season on Wednesday. Out of the 48 players who suited up for the tryouts, 27 were chosen to be on the 2018-2019 squad.

The team is made up of three goalies, eight defensemen, and 16 forwards. Of the 27 players, 16 are returning players. Notable returners include forwards Tyler Brady, Alex Schepflin and defensemen Nick Shantz. Brady, a centreman, tallied an impressive 14 goals, and 14 assists for a total of 28 points in 24 games. Shepflin is returning from an injury that cut his previous season with the team short, however, he’s expected to contribute hugely to scoring for the team. Defensemen Shantz is projected to be one of the top defenders in the TSCHL, returning for his second year on the team, his strength and size sets him apart.

A new head coach, Andrew Wilson, will lead the Buckeyes. Wilson, formerly the 2017- 2018 Assistant Coach of the club team, will now take on the role as head coach. A Pittsburgh native, Wilson provides 20 years of playing experience and seven years of coaching experience, with two high school state championships in Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

“While young, this may be one of the deepest teams in OSU club history,” said head coach Andrew Wilson. “We have scoring depth and a rock-solid defensive core. this team is looking to compete for the TSCHL conference championship and make a run in the ACHA playoffs. There is no doubt we are one of the more talented, disciplined, and hardest working teams in this area of the country.”

Last season, under the direction of previous head coach Mark Runco, now the director of hockey operations for the team, Ohio State turned in a record of 12-9-1. The team hopes to build off the record under a new coaching direction.

The home opener is set for an 8:15 p.m. start on Friday, September 21 at The Ohio State University Ice Arena in Columbus, OH against Miami. All are welcome to come out and cheer on the new squad as they begin their quest to be the top team in the TSCHL.