Offseason breakdown No. 65: Fergus Falls
With 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 Fergus…
Access all of Prep Hockey
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingWith 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 Fergus Falls.
How last season went
For one three-week stretch in January, the Otters looked unstoppable. They went on a six-game win streak that included a win against Hutchinson. Outside of that however, things weren’t quite as positive.
Other than the win streak, Fergus Falls struggled as it went 5-13-1 outside of that stretch. The Otters struggled inside the Central Lakes Conference, finishing with a 5-7 record. That was good enough for fifth place.
Heading into the Section 6A tournament, Fergus Falls would have to defeat some major Goliaths along the way to earn a state tournament bid. However, the Otters never even got that chance. Going up against River Lakes in the quarterfinals, Fergus Falls lost a low-scoring, 1-0 battle and saw its season draw to a close.
Who’s back and who’s gone
If you’re an Otter hockey fan, there’s a lot to like about this question. Michael DeBrito is set to return after leading the team with 27 points (10 goals, 17 assists). Isaac Young and Cole Zierden are also set to return after combining for 27 goals and 16 assists.
In net, Ben Swanson and Ian Stumbo are also set to return. Swanson posted a .892 save percentage last season while Stumbo’s save percentage was .807.
Looking at the graduating seniors, Kaden Peterson looks to be the biggest departure. He tallied 4 goals and 14 assists last season.
What to expect next season
The extended list of players returning should excite those in the program. However, having returning talent isn’t enough. The next challenge will be finding a way to surpass the likes of Alexandria and St. Cloud Cathedral in Section 6A.