Potential Future Recruits - Part II

by **Hammy** » Sat 4/07/12 11:15 pm

WeissFC wrote:For those that are curious about next year's NTDP, it sounds like there will only be two Minnesota native players on the team next year. Shane Gersich and Jack Glover are the two players that will be in Ann Arbor next year. They still have two forwards, one defensman, and both goalie positions open, but it doesn't sound like any Minnesotans will be in the mix for these positions.

I believe you are missing Glover's teammate Ryan Collins. It was reported by David La Vaque of the Star Tribune that he is heading there as well. I know La Vaque and he does a quality job on the local prep scene so I doubt he is wrong.

by **WestCoastGopherGuy** » Sun 4/08/12 1:02 am

gersich looks like the type that could very well commit to the gophers. what type of player does he project to be in college?

by **g_manpucker** » Sun 4/08/12 6:22 pm

Iceburg wrote:"USA Hockey" puts out a PRESS RELEASE detailing some new commitments. Gersich not mentioned, but that should come out shortly. Chris Wilkie is a NoDak recruit.

No relation to me...but if he was I would tell him to play anywhere else!

by **The Big M** » Sun 4/08/12 8:23 pm

Hammy (and others with inside recruiting information),

Quick question. I saw on the offseason thread there are rumors Holl may leave. Makes sense as he looks to have his playing time cut short next year with a couple talented freshmen coming in and none of the current D corp graduating. He would likely be #7 or 8 on the depth chart. You also inferred that MG may not be happy with Holl's style of play. It wouldn't be unreasonable that he may see the writing on the wall and jump for an opportunity for development and icetime elsewhere.

Would a departure by Holl, a junior-to-be, open up roster and scholarship space for another stud defensemen such as an Ian McCoshen? Just curious...

by **Iceburg** » Sun 4/08/12 8:29 pm

I believe McCoshen is only a high school junior and would not be an option for next year.

by **The Big M** » Sun 4/08/12 8:33 pm

I guess I was hoping for a scenario like this because #1, I'm not impressed with Holl and #2 I've heared McCoshen is a big body who plays physical, and with Helgeson graduating after next season, we need another big-bodied physical defenseman who can clear the crease, make opposing forward think twice before coming near the blue paint, and be really unpleasant to play against. I realize we will still have Thompson, but it wouldn't hurt to have two of those types, either. BC sure does.

by **The Big M** » Sun 4/08/12 8:36 pm

Iceburg wrote:I believe McCoshen is only a high school junior and would not be an option for next year.

Thanks Iceburg! I know our Blueline recruiting is pretty full already, but are we recruiting him? I've heard UW, UND, and UMD are in the mix. If we have some one or two early departures, particularly ones in the next year or so we weren't expecting (ie, Holl), would that open enough room and scholarship $s to bring him in? Or another D-man like him?

by **Hammy** » Sun 4/08/12 9:49 pm

I expect McCoshen to be at UW or UND when all is said and done. Even if Holl left this off-season, we'd still have nine D-men for next season. Only one of whom graduates after next season (Helgy). That still leaves potentially 8 defense in 2013. How are you going to sell a guy like McCoshen on that? He's a sure fire 2013 recruit so you're not going to sell him on being a flex year type (i.e. We may bring you in 2013 or 2014). Unless some unexpected things happen, I'm not sure we have a sales pitch that will work in his case.

by **dryfly** » Sun 4/08/12 9:57 pm

Hammy wrote:I expect McCoshen to be at UW or UND when all is said and done. Even if Holl left this off-season, we'd still have nine D-men for next season. Only one of whom graduates after next season (Helgy). That still leaves potentially 8 defense in 2013. How are you going to sell a guy like McCoshen on that? He's a sure fire 2013 recruit so you're not going to sell him on being a flex year type (i.e. We may bring you in 2013 or 2014). Unless some unexpected things happen, I'm not sure we have a sales pitch that will work in his case.

Are you accounting for likely early defections? I'd guess more than a few by then ...

by **The Big M** » Sun 4/08/12 10:06 pm

Hammy wrote:I expect McCoshen to be at UW or UND when all is said and done. Even if Holl left this off-season, we'd still have nine D-men for next season. Only one of whom graduates after next season (Helgy). That still leaves potentially 8 defense in 2013. How are you going to sell a guy like McCoshen on that? He's a sure fire 2013 recruit so you're not going to sell him on being a flex year type (i.e. We may bring you in 2013 or 2014). Unless some unexpected things happen, I'm not sure we have a sales pitch that will work in his case.

Good point, Hammy. I hear what you're saying. Wishful thinking, I guess

. I just figured Alt and Schmidt will probably be gone before their senior years. Along with the possibility of another more unexpected departure (like Holl), and, who knows, a guy like Thompson or Student not being happy with the amount of playing time they get and may leave... I just figured within the next two years there may be a little more room than expected. Obviously, you can't over-recruit in anticipation of departures that may not happen and then when things don't play out as predicted, have too many kids for too few spots/scholarships and have to break the news to kids only to have them decommit with a bad taste on their mouths (UW).

by **Hammy** » Sun 4/08/12 10:24 pm

dryfly wrote:
Hammy wrote:I expect McCoshen to be at UW or UND when all is said and done. Even if Holl left this off-season, we'd still have nine D-men for next season. Only one of whom graduates after next season (Helgy). That still leaves potentially 8 defense in 2013. How are you going to sell a guy like McCoshen on that? He's a sure fire 2013 recruit so you're not going to sell him on being a flex year type (i.e. We may bring you in 2013 or 2014). Unless some unexpected things happen, I'm not sure we have a sales pitch that will work in his case.

Are you accounting for likely early defections? I'd guess more than a few by then ...

Defections after next year? No... but it doesn't really matter because by the time we would know for sure about any defections, McCoshen will likely have made his decision on a school. I would suspect he'll have made his decision before the end of this year. Like I said, if some unexpected things happen (meaning more guys leaving on D this summer than we can really foresee), I don't see a way to sell it to a guy like Ian.

For me, the big focus is going to be on defense will be guys that can be flexible on 2013 or 2014... and the 2014 kids now.

by **Hammy** » Sun 4/08/12 10:29 pm

The Big M wrote:
Hammy wrote:I expect McCoshen to be at UW or UND when all is said and done. Even if Holl left this off-season, we'd still have nine D-men for next season. Only one of whom graduates after next season (Helgy). That still leaves potentially 8 defense in 2013. How are you going to sell a guy like McCoshen on that? He's a sure fire 2013 recruit so you're not going to sell him on being a flex year type (i.e. We may bring you in 2013 or 2014). Unless some unexpected things happen, I'm not sure we have a sales pitch that will work in his case.

Good point, Hammy. I hear what you're saying. Wishful thinking, I guess . I just figured Alt and Schmidt will probably be gone before their senior years. Along with the possibility of another more unexpected departure (like Holl), and, who knows, a guy like Thompson or Student not being happy with the amount of playing time they get and may leave... I just figured within the next two years there may be a little more room than expected. Obviously, you can't over-recruit in anticipation of departures that may not happen and then when things don't play out as predicted, have too many kids for too few spots/scholarships and have to break the news to kids only to have them decommit with a bad taste on their mouths (UW).

I don't think you are wrong on your assumptions on departures. The issue is more about timing. If a guy is a sure fire 2013 recruit and the best we can do (right now anyway) is say maybe 2013 but more likely 2014... well, unless the kid is dying to be a Gopher, he probably will look at the teams that can offer him an absolutely sure spot in 2013.

by **Hammy** » Mon 4/09/12 12:57 pm

Iceburg wrote:"Paul Bittner shows off his stuff at NTDP Camp"

Bittner headed to the WHL. That's a shame.

by **Hscout000** » Mon 4/09/12 4:28 pm

Sounds like Walker might be following his brother for next year to Victoria...
http://www.peninsulanewsreview.com/sports/144987715.html?c=y&curSection=/&curTitle=BC+Sports&bc09=true

by **Hammy** » Mon 4/09/12 4:41 pm

Hscout000 wrote:Sounds like Walker might be following his brother for next year to Victoria...
http://www.peninsulanewsreview.com/sports/144987715.html?c=y&curSection=/&curTitle=BC+Sports&bc09=true

That'd be a shame but not shocking given his brother's presence there.

I hate seeing any MN kid piss away his eligibility on Canadian Jrs. I'd rather they end up at UND or UW than WHL... that's how much I dislike the WHL.

by **Hscout000** » Mon 4/09/12 4:59 pm

Totally agree Hammy. Saw him being a similar player to Marshall for us...

by **Hammy** » Mon 4/09/12 5:05 pm

I'm not saying he was going to be here. I'm just saying I don't like seeing MN kids make these decisions. No need to do it. In his case, I am not sure how wise it is for an undersized defenseman to go to the WHL.

by **Iceburg** » Wed 4/11/12 2:19 am

Thought this was kind of interesting, although I don't know a lot about this kid. He played in the Elite League, but I don't have any solid memories of his play (in fairness, I'm sure I saw less of Team Wisconsin than any other team). He has gotten in a couple of USHL games recently. (LINK)

On his post high school plans, Kapla confides, “I’m a realist.” College will be the real test of whether he’s going on to a higher level, and Kapla has no illusions about his hockey career. He’s spoken to a few colleges about playing hockey for them, including the University of Wisconsin, and admits that his childhood dream has been to play for the
University of innesota

"Michael Kapla: On Eau Claire, Improv and hockey"

"Memorial's Kapla is All-Area boys hockey player of year"

by **Hammy** » Sun 4/15/12 11:06 am

Bad news for a potential Gopher recruit. Christian Horn was injured in BSM's lacrosse game yesterday. Not sure on how long he may be sidelined.

Edit - Removing injury speculation til I hear more detail. May not be what I had originally heard.

by **PassTheFlaskGuy** » Sun 4/15/12 7:54 pm

Iceburg wrote:"USA Hockey" puts out a PRESS RELEASE detailing some new commitments. Gersich not mentioned, but that should come out shortly. Chris Wilkie is a NoDak recruit.

According to Holy Family Head Coach Noel Rahn via Twitter:
"Shane Gersich will be in a Holy Family Fire uniform #9 next season for all those who have inquired all weekend. #smartmove"

If I see him around this spring, I will definitely get a scoop.

by **Hammy** » Sun 4/15/12 8:57 pm

"Smart move"? A slightly biased take I'd say.

by **Bash Brother** » Sun 4/15/12 9:01 pm

Hammy wrote:"Smart move"? A slightly biased take I'd say.

I thought the same thing. Its certainly not the best move for his development as a player.

Probably the best move for Rahn's coaching resume however.

by **MNMD** » Tue 4/17/12 3:59 pm

Iceburg wrote:Thought this was kind of interesting, although I don't know a lot about this kid. He played in the Elite League, but I don't have any solid memories of his play (in fairness, I'm sure I saw less of Team Wisconsin than any other team). He has gotten in a couple of USHL games recently. (LINK)

On his post high school plans, Kapla confides, “I’m a realist.” College will be the real test of whether he’s going on to a higher level, and Kapla has no illusions about his hockey career. He’s spoken to a few colleges about playing hockey for them, including the University of Wisconsin, and admits that his childhood dream has been to play for the
University of innesota

"Michael Kapla: On Eau Claire, Improv and hockey"
"Memorial's Kapla is All-Area boys hockey player of year"

6'1" 195# puck-moving junior ('94) defense. Shoots left. Great first pass moving the puck up ice.
Only sophomore in the state last year as a first-team all-stater.
Repeated as first-team all-state again this year as a junior.
This year named the unanimous conference player of the year (by coaches vote) in a conference which included the Wisconsin player of the year (a senior-only award, like MN's Mr. Hockey).
Hoping to play his senior year at Sioux City in the USHL, for which he played 3 games this year.
Looks good in maroon and gold.

by **WestCoastGopherGuy** » Thu 4/19/12 7:03 pm

surprised gersich would pass up on that opportunity.

hammy- you mentioned a potential knee injury to horn. its obviously safe to assume it wasnt serious, considering the commitment?

by **Bonin21** » Thu 4/19/12 11:09 pm

Next big push on recruiting going to be for 2014-15 D-men?

Things are falling into place awfully nicely for that. Possible returnees that season (6):
Marshall - SR - L
Thompson - SR - R
Skjei - JR - L
Reilly - JR - L
Brodzinski SO/FR - R
Bischoff - FR - L
Have to assume at least one won't be here.

The options are nice, too:
Jack Glover ('14 grad - NTDP) - R
Ryan Collins ('14 grad - NTDP?) - R
Tyler Nanne ('14 grad) - R, we know he'll be here but forward or D and juniors first?
Michael Kapla ('13 grad) - L

Gotta love following recruiting when times are good. While we're at it why not throw Chase Perry into the '14 class if he plays well this season?

by **WestCoastGopherGuy** » Tue 5/01/12 10:01 pm

by **Hammy** » Wed 5/16/12 10:08 am

Bonin21 wrote:Next big push on recruiting going to be for 2014-15 D-men?

I've actually heard a little more about forwards lately. I don't mean solely a kid like Gersich either.

Granted, there are more forward roles on a team than defense so I guess that is to be expected.

Based on recent discussions, I think it will come down to the Gophers and Notre Dame on Glover. No doubt he is likely a top priority on defense if you are looking out to that time frame. I'll have to see if I can get an update on if anything has changed.

I don't think there is much doubt that Nanne will be here. His grandpa pretty much guaranteed that. :lol:

by **Zwak** » Wed 5/16/12 10:23 am

This may not be news to others but it was news to me. Gersich's mom is a Broten (Neal & Aaron's sister)

by **5 O.T.** » Wed 5/16/12 11:57 am

Zwak wrote:This may not be news to others but it was news to me. Gersich's mom is a Broten (Neal & Aaron's sister)

His dad played for the Gophers too.

http://www.gopherhockeyhistory.com/play ... p?plID=333

by **Iceburg** » Thu 5/17/12 10:40 pm

Don't know if there's any interest, but I've always thought this kid was a pretty solid player.

"Rochester's Vesel becomes a part of Shattuck's legacy"

by **Slap Shot** » Fri 5/18/12 9:49 pm

I know this is way early (perhaps especially so for a goalie) but what expecations may there be for Hunter Miska out of North Branch currenlty playing for USU17?

by **Iceburg** » Sat 5/19/12 10:38 am

Slap Shot wrote:I know this is way early (perhaps especially so for a goalie) but what expecations may there be for Hunter Miska out of North Branch currenlty playing for USU17?

Not sure how elite he is seen at this point. Seemed to have a bit of an up and down year, but that is usually pretty much the case for the U-17 team in the USHL in general over the years. It's a bit of a "baptism by fire" for a group that age in a league of kids mostly 3 to 4 years older, so a little inconsistency is pretty normal.

I haven't seen a lot of him. Just a period at Selects last spring. Seems like a very athletic kid. One thing that should be factored in is the short time he's been playing the position. He was a forward until about three or four years ago.

Saw a rumor on the "Hockey's Future" site a couple of days ago saying one of the goalies from the team wouldn't be back next year and that Omaha goalie Thatcher Demko would be brought in. Haven't seen that anywhere else, so who knows if there is anything to it.

by **LeoPohl** » Sat 5/19/12 11:52 am

For all talk about Gersich (and rightfully so for a guy who was playing as an 8th grader and just scored 60 points as a freshman), he wasn't even the highest scoring freshman on his own team. That honor went to John Peterson. Top Freshman scorers in state

Two questions:
1) How much attention is being payed to Peterson from a recruiting perspective?
2) Given Holy Family Catholic just had two freshman score 60+ points and another score 31 this past season, does anyone think that HFC has any chance of making noise in the next couple years? Their third leading scorer will be a junior, fourth and fifth leading scorers seniors, seventh and eighth juniors next season. In fact, all top eight leading scorers on the team could be slated to return this next season. The team will graduate 6 players from this season's team: defensmen Tim Fellner, Mike Gaslin, and Austin Balm; forwards Tanner Steen and Will Hanscomb; and back-up goaltender Larry Bieneman. I never have any reason to follow HFC, so I don't know if this is normal and I'm late to the party, or if they might have a good group of young players to build around (provided they stay).

by **Maize** » Sat 5/19/12 12:09 pm

Holy Family Catholic should be pretty good next year, which is why they moved up a division in anticipation of this group, but I think BSM will have too many key free agent signings for anyone to come close to them in that section.

by **Iceburg** » Sat 5/19/12 12:49 pm

LeoPohl wrote:1) How much attention is being payed to Peterson from a recruiting perspective?

Peterson's is a smaller player with not a lot of meat on his bones at this point. Looks like he has a nice pair of hands and some good rink vision. A little early to guess his future. Saw him at Select 16s and he played OK, but wasn't one of the standouts. He made the Final 54 level, but was not chosen for the national camp (Holy Family sophomore forward Jooey Marooney was chosen). Like I say, the kid seems to have a nice feel for the game, a lot will depend on how his body matures.

by **PassTheFlaskGuy** » Tue 6/12/12 7:59 am

LeoPohl wrote:For all talk about Gersich (and rightfully so for a guy who was playing as an 8th grader and just scored 60 points as a freshman), he wasn't even the highest scoring freshman on his own team. That honor went to John Peterson. Top Freshman scorers in state

Two questions:
1) How much attention is being payed to Peterson from a recruiting perspective?
2) Given Holy Family Catholic just had two freshman score 60+ points and another score 31 this past season, does anyone think that HFC has any chance of making noise in the next couple years? Their third leading scorer will be a junior, fourth and fifth leading scorers seniors, seventh and eighth juniors next season. In fact, all top eight leading scorers on the team could be slated to return this next season. The team will graduate 6 players from this season's team: defensmen Tim Fellner, Mike Gaslin, and Austin Balm; forwards Tanner Steen and Will Hanscomb; and back-up goaltender Larry Bieneman. I never have any reason to follow HFC, so I don't know if this is normal and I'm late to the party, or if they might have a good group of young players to build around (provided they stay).

Remember Gersich was in Austria for eight games playing for Team USA. He missed out on some points there, but so did Petersen, who had a huge year in the assist column.

Holy Family Catholic should be very solid next year. Their top 6 forwards - Gersich, Peterson and Sam Stenson on the top line and Joey Marooney, Will Garin and Garrett Riebling - all are playing in big-time camps this summer. And all 6 can put the puck in the net. Their defense was very inconsistent last year. They lost games 8-5. Dylan Woolf, Ryan Swanson and Matt Runyon should benefit from an added year of experience. Goaltender Nick Schreiter will also be in his second full-season as a starter.

by **younggopherdiehard** » Thu 6/14/12 8:25 pm

Any info on Jack Glover possiibly committing to Boston College? He tweeted about a Boston College lanyard with #samecollege to someone.

by **Hammy** » Mon 6/18/12 9:44 pm

Just a name to keep an eye on for down the road. CJ Garcia. He's a 1996 defenseman from Ontario. He tried out for the Fargo Force a few weeks ago (sounds like he will be playing there this year from what I am hearing). He visited the "U" while he was in town for Fargo's tryouts. He was a 3rd round pick in the OHL earlier this year and there is always that possibility for a kid from that neck of the woods to go that route. But it sounds like there is some genuine interest on his part to go the college route and I suspect we will be among the leading candidates.

One scout I talked to is very high on the kid's future. The situation is worth keeping tabs on.

by **FargoSiouxHater** » Wed 6/27/12 10:48 am

It looks like Guentzel is skipping his senior year for the USHL.

http://www.mnhockeyhub.com/news_article ... 32770-news

The article has his list of schools as CC, Denver, UNO, and UMD. Are we not showing any interest in him, I'd assume we would be? Or is the consensus that he wants to follow the same route his brothers took and go off on his own and not play for his Dad?

by **Hammy** » Wed 6/27/12 2:52 pm

FargoSiouxHater wrote:It looks like Guentzel is skipping his senior year for the USHL.

http://www.mnhockeyhub.com/news_article ... 32770-news

The article has his list of schools as CC, Denver, UNO, and UMD. Are we not showing any interest in him, I'd assume we would be? Or is the consensus that he wants to follow the same route his brothers took and go off on his own and not play for his Dad?

I think it would be far fetched to say there is no interest because the kid is a good player. But you have to weigh that with other factors that could be a distraction. It might be best to spread his wings away from home and not have to face any questions of nepotism playing a role in his ice time, etc.

Judging from what I have heard over time, I think UNO is the most likely landing spot. Granted, I haven't asked about his situation in a while.

by **WestCoastGopherGuy** » Tue 7/03/12 11:12 pm

i didnt realize connor hurley is draft eligible next summer- before his senior year of high school. likely shaves a year off his college career if he goes the ncaa route..

by **Iceburg** » Sun 7/08/12 9:12 am

From THIS ARTICLE:

Minnetonka coach Brian Urick said (Tom) Vannelli, who scored a goal and five assists in six games at the national camp, has drawn interest from innesota, Wisconsin, St. Cloud State, Notre Dame and Minnesota State since returning from New York. Urick said the U.S. National Team Development Program based in Ann Arbor, Mich., also is showing interest in the 6-foot-2, 188-pound Vannelli.

by **LeoPohl** » Mon 7/09/12 10:20 am

Iceburg wrote:From THIS ARTICLE:

Minnetonka coach Brian Urick said (Tom) Vannelli, who scored a goal and five assists in six games at the national camp, has drawn interest from innesota, Wisconsin, St. Cloud State, Notre Dame and Minnesota State since returning from New York. Urick said the U.S. National Team Development Program based in Ann Arbor, Mich., also is showing interest in the 6-foot-2, 188-pound Vannelli.

A Vannelli not wearing the M? Unthinkable.

by **Iceburg** » Mon 7/09/12 8:48 pm

LeoPohl wrote:A Vannelli not wearing the M? Unthinkable.

Maybe not as unthinkable as you'd expect. Of the five sons of former WCHA and high school referee Ron Vannelli (died in 2009), only Tom played at the "U". The four others all played college hockey also: Ron Jr. (St. John's, late '60s), Greg (St. Thomas, mid-'70s), Mark (Northern Michigan, early '80s) and Mike (St. Cloud, mid-'80s).

As for the Tom Vannelli at Minnetonka, I believe his father's name is Jeff, who, I think, played at Totino Grace in the mid '80s (or was it still Fridley Grace in those days?). I've been told there is a relation in there somewhere, but not sure exactly how.

by **Slap Shot** » Mon 7/09/12 11:11 pm

I think you're being far too literal.

by **Iceburg** » Wed 7/11/12 7:39 am

Slap Shot wrote:I think you're being far too literal.

by **Hammy** » Wed 7/11/12 9:04 am

The way Gersich is going, I'll be a little surprised if he isn't locked up by early fall. Unless he wants to take his time for some reason.

Also hearing the Kivihalme kid is getting increased attention. Big name schools in the hunt. I was erroneously told once he was a bit of a head case but the source corrected himself and told me it was another player he meant.

As I mentioned on Twitter a few days ago, Hurley is on the road this week visiting Notre Dame, Miami Ohio, and Michigan. It is shaping up to be quite the recruiting battle for him.

by **Bertogliat** » Wed 7/11/12 9:28 am

Hammy wrote:The way Gersich is going, I'll be a little surprised if he isn't locked up by early fall. Unless he wants to take his time for some reason.

Also hearing the Kivihalme kid is getting increased attention. Big name schools in the hunt. I was erroneously told once he was a bit of a head case but the source corrected himself and told me it was another player he meant.

As I mentioned on Twitter a few days ago, Hurley is on the road this week visiting Notre Dame, Miami Ohio, and Michigan. It is shaping up to be quite the recruiting battle for him.

Too bad the Nannes won't be around as much to talk about how cool it would be if Connor played at the U. The kid has some pretty good stats considering his age and the quality of teams he has played on. Getting 2 pts/game as a Sophomore at Edina is a nice feat. Hockey Hub had him listed as 5'11" when he was a freshman.

by **george** » Wed 7/11/12 10:16 am

Bertogliat wrote:
Hammy wrote:The way Gersich is going, I'll be a little surprised if he isn't locked up by early fall. Unless he wants to take his time for some reason.

Also hearing the Kivihalme kid is getting increased attention. Big name schools in the hunt. I was erroneously told once he was a bit of a head case but the source corrected himself and told me it was another player he meant.

As I mentioned on Twitter a few days ago, Hurley is on the road this week visiting Notre Dame, Miami Ohio, and Michigan. It is shaping up to be quite the recruiting battle for him.

Too bad the Nannes won't be around as much to talk about how cool it would be if Connor played at the U. The kid has some pretty good stats considerin thg his age and the quality of teams he has played on. Getting 2 pts/game as a Sophomore at Edina is a nice feat. Hockey Hub had him listed as 5'11" when he was a freshman.

Connor won't be around either this coming season.

by **Bertogliat** » Wed 7/11/12 10:18 am

george wrote:
Bertogliat wrote:
Hammy wrote:The way Gersich is going, I'll be a little surprised if he isn't locked up by early fall. Unless he wants to take his time for some reason.

Also hearing the Kivihalme kid is getting increased attention. Big name schools in the hunt. I was erroneously told once he was a bit of a head case but the source corrected himself and told me it was another player he meant.

As I mentioned on Twitter a few days ago, Hurley is on the road this week visiting Notre Dame, Miami Ohio, and Michigan. It is shaping up to be quite the recruiting battle for him.

Too bad the Nannes won't be around as much to talk about how cool it would be if Connor played at the U. The kid has some pretty good stats considerin thg his age and the quality of teams he has played on. Getting 2 pts/game as a Sophomore at Edina is a nice feat. Hockey Hub had him listed as 5'11" when he was a freshman.

Connor won't be around either this coming season.

USHL or USDT?

3 teams in 3 years?

by **BlueBandit24** » Wed 7/11/12 11:36 am

Bertogliat wrote:
george wrote:
Bertogliat wrote:
Hammy wrote:The way Gersich is going, I'll be a little surprised if he isn't locked up by early fall. Unless he wants to take his time for some reason.

Also hearing the Kivihalme kid is getting increased attention. Big name schools in the hunt. I was erroneously told once he was a bit of a head case but the source corrected himself and told me it was another player he meant.

As I mentioned on Twitter a few days ago, Hurley is on the road this week visiting Notre Dame, Miami Ohio, and Michigan. It is shaping up to be quite the recruiting battle for him.

Too bad the Nannes won't be around as much to talk about how cool it would be if Connor played at the U. The kid has some pretty good stats considerin thg his age and the quality of teams he has played on. Getting 2 pts/game as a Sophomore at Edina is a nice feat. Hockey Hub had him listed as 5'11" when he was a freshman.

Connor won't be around either this coming season.

USHL or USDT?

3 teams in 3 years?

Seems Muskegon would be the destination as they selected him 3rd in the recent Entry Draft. I didn't realize he had played for another team before Edina last year. Where was he as a freshman?

Really excited to see how some of the recruiting plays out. I'd guess some 2014 or 2015 commits are on the horizon this fall.

by **FargoSiouxHater** » Wed 7/11/12 12:02 pm

BlueBandit24 wrote:
Bertogliat wrote:
george wrote:
Bertogliat wrote:
Hammy wrote:The way Gersich is going, I'll be a little surprised if he isn't locked up by early fall. Unless he wants to take his time for some reason.

Also hearing the Kivihalme kid is getting increased attention. Big name schools in the hunt. I was erroneously told once he was a bit of a head case but the source corrected himself and told me it was another player he meant.

As I mentioned on Twitter a few days ago, Hurley is on the road this week visiting Notre Dame, Miami Ohio, and Michigan. It is shaping up to be quite the recruiting battle for him.

Too bad the Nannes won't be around as much to talk about how cool it would be if Connor played at the U. The kid has some pretty good stats considerin thg his age and the quality of teams he has played on. Getting 2 pts/game as a Sophomore at Edina is a nice feat. Hockey Hub had him listed as 5'11" when he was a freshman.

Connor won't be around either this coming season.

USHL or USDT?

3 teams in 3 years?

Seems Muskegon would be the destination as they selected him 3rd in the recent Entry Draft. I didn't realize he had played for another team before Edina last year. Where was he as a freshman?

Really excited to see how some of the recruiting plays out. I'd guess some 2014 or 2015 commits are on the horizon this fall.

He was at Holy Angels for his freshman year, I believe.

by **streakygopher** » Wed 7/11/12 2:22 pm

Hammy wrote:The way Gersich is going, I'll be a little surprised if he isn't locked up by early fall. Unless he wants to take his time for some reason.

Also hearing the Kivihalme kid is getting increased attention. Big name schools in the hunt. I was erroneously told once he was a bit of a head case but the source corrected himself and told me it was another player he meant.

As I mentioned on Twitter a few days ago, Hurley is on the road this week visiting Notre Dame, Miami Ohio, and Michigan. It is shaping up to be quite the recruiting battle for him.

Kivihalme has been on the radar screen for some time (got some inside info on this kid)...that he just made the junior squad will likely increase the frenzy, though. :good2:

by **BlueBandit24** » Wed 7/11/12 4:36 pm

FargoSiouxHater wrote:
BlueBandit24 wrote:I didn't realize he had played for another team before Edina last year. Where was he as a freshman?

He was at Holy Angels for his freshman year, I believe.

Thanks! I vaguely recall that now.

by **WeissFC** » Thu 7/12/12 3:02 pm

george wrote:
Bertogliat wrote:
Hammy wrote:The way Gersich is going, I'll be a little surprised if he isn't locked up by early fall. Unless he wants to take his time for some reason.

Also hearing the Kivihalme kid is getting increased attention. Big name schools in the hunt. I was erroneously told once he was a bit of a head case but the source corrected himself and told me it was another player he meant.

As I mentioned on Twitter a few days ago, Hurley is on the road this week visiting Notre Dame, Miami Ohio, and Michigan. It is shaping up to be quite the recruiting battle for him.

Too bad the Nannes won't be around as much to talk about how cool it would be if Connor played at the U. The kid has some pretty good stats considerin thg his age and the quality of teams he has played on. Getting 2 pts/game as a Sophomore at Edina is a nice feat. Hockey Hub had him listed as 5'11" when he was a freshman.

Connor won't be around either this coming season.

Are you saying Connor Hurley won't be back at Edina this coming season? He was placed on Muskegon's affiliate list when they announced their preliminary roster.

by **PassTheFlaskGuy** » Fri 7/13/12 12:49 pm

Shane Gersich led all players in scoring at the Select 16 National Camp in New York. He finished with five goals and seven assists in six games

by **Jaykay3** » Fri 7/13/12 4:08 pm

PassTheFlaskGuy wrote:Shane Gersich led all players in scoring at the Select 16 National Camp in New York. He finished with five goals and seven assists in six games

Stud

by **PassTheFlaskGuy** » Sat 7/14/12 4:54 pm

Jaykay3 wrote:
PassTheFlaskGuy wrote:Shane Gersich led all players in scoring at the Select 16 National Camp in New York. He finished with five goals and seven assists in six games

Stud

Hoping to chat with him Monday or Tuesday of this week for the local newspapers. Catch up on all of the happenings and see what the future has in store for him at this point

by **Iceburg** » Sun 7/15/12 11:56 pm

Bertogliat wrote:
george wrote:
Bertogliat wrote:
Hammy wrote:........As I mentioned on Twitter a few days ago, Hurley is on the road this week visiting Notre Dame, Miami Ohio, and Michigan. It is shaping up to be quite the recruiting battle for him.

Too bad the Nannes won't be around as much to talk about how cool it would be if Connor played at the U. The kid has some pretty good stats considerin thg his age and the quality of teams he has played on. Getting 2 pts/game as a Sophomore at Edina is a nice feat. Hockey Hub had him listed as 5'11" when he was a freshman.

Connor won't be around either this coming season.

USHL or USDT?

3 teams in 3 years?

4 in 4, he was on a loaded Shattuck bantam team as an eighth grader (LINK)

by **Iceburg** » Mon 7/16/12 12:08 am

"Mightiest of Lumberjacks?"

College committment: None. Minnesota-Duluth has expressed interest, as has innesota and Colorado College. Kuhlman, who has not yet received scholarship offers, hopes to make at least a couple of campus visits this summer.

by **Hammy** » Mon 7/16/12 10:29 pm

Iceburg wrote:"Mightiest of Lumberjacks?"

College committment: None. Minnesota-Duluth has expressed interest, as has innesota and Colorado College. Kuhlman, who has not yet received scholarship offers, hopes to make at least a couple of campus visits this summer.

It'd be interesting to see him follow in Millen's footsteps. The question is going to be about fit/need too.

There are a number of kids in that age group on the radar right now. I'd be curious to see how the coaches envision certain individuals fitting in with what they know they will have already. At this point, recruiting using the BTHC variable is in play as well.

by **PassTheFlaskGuy** » Tue 7/17/12 3:12 pm

Excited to wear the Team USA jersey again - Shane Gersich: http://www.chaskaherald.com/scoreboard/ ... d9a8b.html

On not going to Ann Arbor: "family reasons"

On college choices: "I'm not sure when I will commit, but I'm in no hurry." He said he will take a few visits later this summer

by **Feisty Golden Rodents** » Wed 7/18/12 10:42 pm

Hammy maybe you can add to this.... I didnt feel like going back 13 pages to see if this has been discussed. A co-worker and I were discussing all things Gopher hockey today at the old water cooler. He mentioned that Gophers are interesed in St Thomas junior D-man, Jack Dougherty. My work buddy was his former youth hockey coach and keeps in contact with the family and said that he has received a letter from coach Guentzel. He didnt go into any detail on the letter. Just wondering if anyone knows how much interest there is.....

by **Hammy** » Thu 7/19/12 12:15 pm

Sending out letters isn't all that uncommon. It's mainly saying we like your game and we are watching you. Certainly it means more with some players than it does others. In his specific case, I don't know where he ranks on the list.

by **steps1299** » Mon 7/23/12 2:05 pm

I doubt it but any chance the gophers have interest in Kevin Roy? or Kevin Roy has interest in the Gophers? Just thought I would ask some of the people in the know.

by **Iceburg** » Mon 7/23/12 2:18 pm

steps1299 wrote:I doubt it but any chance the gophers have interest in Kevin Roy? or Kevin Roy has interest in the Gophers? Just thought I would ask some of the people in the know.

I believe he's headed to Brown

by **steps1299** » Mon 7/23/12 2:20 pm

He Decommitted from Brown this morning.

by **Hammy** » Mon 7/23/12 2:40 pm

I think it is pretty likely Roy stays out east if he maintains the NCAA route.

by **steps1299** » Mon 7/23/12 2:57 pm

Could Brown limit what colleges he has options to or since he never signed a LOI he can go anywhere?

by **Iceburg** » Mon 7/23/12 3:01 pm

steps1299 wrote:since he never signed a LOI he can go anywhere?

I think this would be the case

by **WestCoastGopherGuy** » Tue 7/24/12 9:08 pm

Hammy wrote:
WeissFC wrote:For those that are curious about next year's NTDP, it sounds like there will only be two Minnesota native players on the team next year. Shane Gersich and Jack Glover are the two players that will be in Ann Arbor next year. They still have two forwards, one defensman, and both goalie positions open, but it doesn't sound like any Minnesotans will be in the mix for these positions.

I believe you are missing Glover's teammate Ryan Collins. It was reported by David La Vaque of the Star Tribune that he is heading there as well. I know La Vaque and he does a quality job on the local prep scene so I doubt he is wrong.

collins looks like hes a fan of BC hockey

by **Iceburg** » Wed 7/25/12 8:51 pm

A little more on Minnetonka's Tom Vannelli........

"Rise of the Skipper"

by **streakygopher** » Wed 7/25/12 11:25 pm

Iceburg wrote:A little more on Minnetonka's Tom Vannelli........

"Rise of the Skipper"

Looks like he's leaning WI

by **Iceburg** » Thu 7/26/12 2:25 am

There was a little discussion of this kid a while back.......

Bob Bradovich (WQOW.com) wrote:When Eau Claire Memorial begins defense of its WIAA Boys Hockey sectional title next November, the Old Abes won't have one of their best players in uniform.

Defenseman Michael Kapla is leaving the program to skate with the Sioux City Musketeers of the United States Hockey League. Kapla was a Wisconsin Hockey Coaches Association first-team all-state performer in his sophomore and junior seasons. Kapla says his goal is to play Division I college hockey, and skating in the USHL will help him achieve that goal.

"If I can just develop faster and get to college faster," says Kapla, "the league is a great league, many kids are able to make the jump to Division I hockey after they play either one or two years in the USHL, so I guess, yeah, being able to get there as soon as I could will kind of help me in the long run."

Kapla says he's already heard from a couple of Division I college hockey programs.

by **Idontknow** » Thu 7/26/12 11:57 am

streakygopher wrote:
Iceburg wrote:A little more on Minnetonka's Tom Vannelli........

"Rise of the Skipper"

Looks like he's leaning WI

He mentions Wisconsin as having a tradition of developing offensive defensemen. I know they've had a few high-end types that have come in and then left early for the NHL, but I guess I've never though of Wisconsin as the place for offensive defensemen. And did Wisconsin really develop them or were they already really high-end prospects.

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