Offseason breakdown No. 23: Armstrong/Cooper
With most sports on hold and the 2020-21 season still months out, it’s time to take a look at teams from all over the State of Hockey and examine what happened this past season and what’s ahead. The next team…
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Continue ReadingWith most sports on hold and the 2020-21 season still months out, it’s time to take a look at teams from all over the State of Hockey and examine what happened this past season and what’s ahead. The next team we’re breaking down is Armstrong/Cooper.
How last season went
It was a strong start for the Wings as they won four of their first five games to open the season. After some inconsistency during the middle parts of the season, Armstrong/Cooper finished strong by winning four of their last five including a win against section rival Orono.
Heading into the postseason, the Wings came in as the No. 4 seed in Section 2A. Armstrong/Cooper took care of business in the quarterfinals with a 5-3 win against Mound Westonka. Then, the Wings pulled off one of the more shocking upsets of the postseason when they shutout the top-seeded Spartans 4-0 to advance to the section final.
Facing off against second-seeded Delano, Armstrong/Cooper gave the Tigers everything they could handle but Delano eventually prevailed with a 3-2 win in overtime.
Who’s gone and who’s back
Jack Campion and Ben Anderson each played a big part in the Wings’ offensive attack. Unfortunately for Armstrong/Cooper, both are graduating after combining for 46 goals and 83 assists. The good news is Noah Weisjahn is set to return after a 36-point season (14 goals, 22 assists). Ryan Badertscher is also back after a 23-point season (8G, 15A).
Along with the return of Weisjahn and Badertscher, Owen Reeve returns after posting a .855 save percentage in 26 games.
What to expect next season
After coming within a goal of the state tournament, it’s safe to say Armstrong/Cooper exceeded expectations during the 2019-20 season. The big question is if the Wings can use that success as a jumping off point of sorts. The returning players will likely have a big say in whether that advancement happens.