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 Waconia.
How last season went
It’s cliche, but the Wildcats’ 2019-20 season was certainly a roller coaster. That was illustrated by the stretch where they lost eight consecutive games and then rebounded with four consecutive wins.
These struggles came in part because of the fact Waconia allowed more than four goals per game last season. The team eventually found itself with an 8-17 record while picking up wins against Mora/Milaca, Minnehaha Academy and Rochester Lourdes.
In the postseason, the Wildcats had their work cut out for them as the No. 10 seed in Section 2A. Going up against Southwest Christian/Richfield in the play-in round, Waconia struggled and eventually bowed out with a 4-1 loss.
Who’s back and who’s gone
It’s safe to say Jack O’Brien will be missed. He graduated following a 29-point season (10 goals, 19 assists).
As for the rest of the Waconia attack, there are plenty of returners to glom on to. Tyson Wiese (11G, 6A), Chase Holcom (8G, 8A) and Gus Leivermann (8G, 7A) are all slated to return next season for the Wildcats.
In net, there is work to be done as Mikey Behring graduated after posting a .875 save percentage last season in 22 games.
What to expect next season
There is a chance to improve for Waconia. One obstacle to that will be the move to the Metro West Conference. Solid programs such as Benilde-St. Margaret’s and Chaska are there. Can these returners make some noise as newcomers?