A team cannot become national champions without depth, and teams cannot acquire depth without freshmen who not only fit into a team's system but are also effective in it as well.
The national champion Ohio hockey team has a pair of outstanding freshmen who did just that in defenseman Travis Preble and right wing Paul Warriner.
Preble was recognized for his solid season on the blue line by being named to the All-American Collegiate Hockey Association Rookie Team. The blueliner had six goals and 12 assists, totaling 18 points for the Bobcats during their championship year while establishing himself as an enforcer with 47 penalty minutes.
Early in the season we matched Travis against the best line of the teams we were playing
Morris said. We also snuck him in all over the ice on power plays while shorthanded and at even strength. He made freshman mistakes but what he learned from those.
During the Bobcats' national championship run, Preble scored a goal in Ohio's 2-0 win against Rhode Island that propelled them to the championship game. It was there that Preble recorded one of two assists he had in the tournament on a goal that sparked a four-goal streak by the Bobcats to help earn them the national title.
Warriner, out of Blenheim, Ontario, Canada, had a huge first year for the Bobcats, recording 13 goals and seven assists for 20 points in 37 games for Ohio. The winger proved himself as a defensive forward as well, racking up a plus-minus rating of 24.
Paul came in more as a defensive forward specialist but tied for most goals by a freshman on the team
said coach Dan Morris. He does a good job managing players. He finds ways to get the most out of the players he plays with.
In a game where the jump from youth hockey to high school and high school to college can produce amazing changes in speed and opponent's skill levels, Warriner excelled in key games for Ohio.
I'd like to think I have a good work ethic both in practices and in games
said Warriner. It helps me
and I think it also helps drive others on the team
too.
Morris has high expectations for both players next year and has been working with them both in the spring to improve aspects of their game.
I have been collecting a lot of game tape
said Warriner. When you look back you can see what you did right and wrong easier. I'm also looking to bulk up a little bit to win some more battles in the corner.
Morris sees both players succeeding in the upcoming season.
Travis' role won't change much
but I do see him being our ice time leader
Morris said. Paul comes off as a guy who's been here for years. We'll need that kind of leadership next season.
