If this late deluge of winter recedes by Wednesday, chances are Chanhassen and Stillwater will have an opportunity to take an early measure of their maturing rosters against a quality opponent. While each graduated its top scorer from last season, the majority of the talent that helped these teams find success a year ago return with high expectations, culminating in our Top Game of the Week.
The Storm bring back a combined 66 goals and 37 assists from seniors Rowan Hodgins and Emma Silbernagel, and Chanhassen expects the two midfielders to keep the offense ticking this year.
Despite all its returning talent, Chanhassen faces some defensive uncertainty going into this season. Freshman goalie Kaylyn Cater is expected to step into the starting lineup with the graduation of Emilee Anderson. Weather permitting, Cater will face a key tests as a fledgling goalie behind a senior-less defense as the Storm host Minnetonka on Tuesday before visiting Stillwater on Wednesday.
The Ponies return only one of their top three offensive players from last year, but Abby Hagberg has proven she is a potent offensive threat. The senior forward led the team with 16 assists last season to go along with 39 goals.
Stillwater has the advantage in continuity, with senior goalie Kinsey Weyer returning to marshal the Ponies defense.