Wolves Hockey returns Friday Night

BY RICKY LINDSAY, Staff Writer

The University of Michigan-Dearborn Wolves open the 2012-2013 season this Friday with a home scrimmage against the Wayne State Warriors. The Wolves are looking to build off their disappointing 15-20 record a year ago.

In previous years, the Wolves depended on a high powered offense to help them win with a weak defense. This lead to their demise last season, as the Wolves scored 158 goals while allowing 207.

Sophomore Jeremy Klotz said this year will be different in that perspective. “This season, we want to focus more on defense”, said Klotz. “We want to win games 3-2 or 2-1 instead of 8-7.”

An improved defense will surely pay dividends for the Wolves in their pursuit to compete with the best in the Great Lakes Collegiate Hockey League (GLCHL). Rivals Adrian, Davenport, and Oakland all stand between the Wolves and a GLCHL title. The Wolves went 2-10 against these teams last season and look to improve that record this year.

Klotz, James Marchese, and Anthony Olson are expected to lead the Wolves’ offensive attack, with Nicholas Crowley and Kyle Horn anchoring the defense. Olson will take over the role of scoring with the departure of four-time All American Michael Macari. Olson led returning players with 67 points last season.

Josh Khan and Micah Collier are expected to split time at goalie, continuing a game plan that was used last season. Both showed flashes of greatness at times, but blowout losses diminished their seasons. Steve Ledesma could be a dark horse candidate to get the start at goalie if the Wolves decide to change things up midseason.

The faces of Wolves hockey has changed, but the goals remain the same. Even after losing nine seniors from last year’s team, the Wolves still look to compete in 2012.