Last year’s MASCAC runner-ups return will a veteran core that’s looking to get back to the championship game.
“This team returns a great group of athletes,” coach Dean Fuller said. “Last year’s loss in the championship has motivated us to work harder in the off-season so we can get back into that game.”
In net, the Falcons return senior Robert Vorse, who saw the majority of time between the pipes last season, posting a 3.09 goals-against-average and .895 save percentage while making the first team All-MASCAC.
Senior co-captain Chris Riggs (13-22) highlights the returning firepower up front, along with juniors Kris Threlkeld (9-9) and Kevin McCready (13-7). Fuller said sophomores Justin Quinn (9-9), Trevor Lawler (6-10), and John Vets (12-7) will also be counted upon. Gone is first team All-MASCAC member Andrew Hutton (12-22), who ranked second on the team in points a year ago.
On defense, the Falcons lose Chris Brecken (0-11), along with second team All-MASCAC member Pat Dolan (3-13), but back are senior co-captain Billy Pescosolido (2-13) and classmate Erik Trahan (3-6), each of whom will be “taking on serious key minutes.”
Fuller said he will emphasize an aggressive style of play all over the ice, in addition to tightening up Fitchburg’s special team units.
“Our goal is to have a top power play and penalty kill. If we are successful on special teams, we should be competitive nightly,” he said.
Additionally, Fuller said he’ll be looking for the commitment necessary from his team in order to win.
“[We need] to practice well, stay healthy, and prepare for every contest,” Fuller said. “No nights off, no practices off.”
