Men’s Hockey will drop the puck on 2019-20 season

MEQUON, Wis. – As the temperature falls, the excitement in the air grows around the CUW men's hockey team as it prepares for the 2019-20 season. The Falcons look to make an impact once again on the ice this winter.

"What I'm most excited about this season is to see the progression of our returning players," said head coach Jasen Wise. "Every player put in the necessary time this summer to be successful. I'm excited to see them be rewarded for their effort and dedication to the game."

The Falcons will lean on experience this year with 18 returners from last year's team. Of those returning, the Blue and White have their top returning scorers from last year in junior Nick Guiney (Victoria, B.C.), junior Nick Guerra (Victoria, B.C.) and senior Dante Hahn (Victoria, B.C.).

CUW also returns all three goalies from last winter, including sophomore Bo Didur, who was named to the NCHA All-Freshman Team in 2019.

"We do have a lot of returners back but the key is work ethic and attitude," said Wise. "If your work ethic and attitude aren't in check, it doesn't matter how many veterans you have.  This group is the most committed group I've seen.  Weight room, classroom, locker room, you name it, they are all in."

The Falcons showed they are checked in, in the classroom, with six Falcons claiming the title of ACHA Krampade All-American Scholars for attaining a 3.6 GPA each semester and participated in 40% CUW's games in the 2018-19 season.

Concordia added six new faces to the roster for 2020, including an NCAA Division I transfer in junior Cole Pickup (Victoria, B.C.) from Nebraska Omaha.

"The newcomers have been outstanding," said Wise. "Each of them have a different role on the team, but each has accepted their role and are committed to our team goals."

There has been a lot of excitement associated with the team and it starts from the top, down. Senior Mac Ferner (Vernon, B.C.) was selected as captain for the 2019-20 season. Senior Dante Hahn (Victoria, B.C.) and senior Jake Switzer (Swansea, Ill.) were named assistant captains.

"So far the most exciting thing has been their positive attitude and overall energy," said Wise. "Day in and day out they are working together as a team and holding each other accountable. They are a fun group to be around."

There will be plenty of opportunities to watch the Falcons this year, as they will host 12 games. The Blue and White open the year against Concordia Moorhead and St. Thomas.

CUW was predicted to finish in eighth place in the NCHA. Concordia will host Aurora, St. Norbert, Finlandia, Lawrence, MSOE, Marian, Adrian and Lake Forest at home.

The season opens on Friday for the Falcons against the Cobbers of Concordia Moorhead.