What to Watch for
The 2017-18 regular season is a little over a week away and the Colonials will be looking to improve on last season's record and secure another birth to the National Championships. Here are a few things to look for in the Colonials third season competing in the NCRHA (National Collegiate Roller Hockey Association).
1.) Who Will Step Up on Defense?
With team Captain and defenseman Dan Trunk out until the spring (ACL reconstruction surgery), RMU will look toward their returning blueliners (Mark Hilderhoff, Nick Brandt and Ricky Scott) and freshman Cam Zahn to step up in a big way. Zahn, brother of Sophomore Jesse, will be looked at to fill the offensive void Trunk leaves in his absence.
2.) PK Looks to Continue to Shine
During last season's National Championships in Ft. Myers, Jesse Zahn and the Colonials penalty killing unit stood on their head and dominated some of the best power play units in the country. Zahn finished the tournament with six points in five games with three short-handed tallies. Check out the video below to see some of the A+ penalty kills from Nationals.
3.) Veteran Goaltender
The Colonials have some experience in-between the pipes this season as graduate student, Paul Schreiber, joins the club for the 2017-18 season. Schreiber spent some time in his undergraduate career playing with the Division 2 Penn State Nittany Lions. He stopped 61 of 70 shots over the preseason weekend.
4.) Wanted: Goals
With eight returning forwards this season, Bobby Mo will look to them to show up on the scoresheet throughout the year. Sean Lawrence shined in the preseason with four points in three games. Look for David Waxter, Jesse Zahn, and Matthew Smeltzer to also produce offensively for RMU.
Check out the season opener in Grove City on October 21st! This will be the only "local" weekend this season, so the Colonials look forward to having friends and family in attendance. As always, check ecrha.net or ncrha.org for up-to-date statistics and league standings. Check out last season's Nationals preview to get excited for the season and we'll see everyone next weekend! Let's Go Bobby Mo!
