After a disappointing winless season in which half the games were forfeited, the LSU ice hockey team is sure 2011 will be their turnaround year, said general manager Gerry Bloom and team president Brandon Holy.
The team, which plays in the South Eastern Collegiate Hockey Conference, faces many schools the football team also battles.
Holy and Bloom said last year’s disappointing season was caused by a number of circumstances.
Bloom said some players broke rules and had to leave the team. The team also had difficulty recruiting, which added to the shortage of players. Holy said the shortage resulted in forfeiting games, which led to probation.
This season the team’s probation will be lifted and they will regain full member status in the conference.
Bloom said cutting players, while detrimental in the short term, creates a strong core. He said the example will teach new players how to properly represent the University.
Recruiting hasn’t been a problem this season. Holy said nearly 60 prospects are interested in joining. Many recruits will attend recruiting weekend on July 18 and 19.
Bloom said recruiting weekend, which is open to high school juniors and seniors, allows parents and prospective players to tour the program and the University. He said many parents feel better sending their children out of state knowing the club staff will support them.
Tryouts for next season will be held on August 24 and 25. Bloom said interested players can visit lsuhockey.com or call Bloom at (225) 362-9631 for more information.
The team is composed of players from Louisiana and Texas, usual for an LSU team. However, there are players from as far away as New Hampshire, Michigan and Ontario, Canada.
Bloom said he stresses discipline and both mental and physical strength. He said having a tough attitude and thick skin keeps a player from fighting and stops unnecessary penalties caused by verbal sparring.
Many people are surprised to learn LSU has an ice hockey team. Holy said after Bloom was interviewed by ESPN Radio, he received a call from Les Miles, who had never heard about the team and was excited to learn more.
Bloom said slow team growth is due to bad marketing. Bloom said hockey is an expensive sport, which leaves the team limited funds for advertising.
The team’s home rink is Leo’s Iceland, which is a few miles northeast of campus. The team also plays home games in Lafayette at Planet Ice. Holy said the dual arena setup offers improved facilities and the potential for larger crowds. Holy said the team has also been invited to play at the Cajundome this season.
The Tigers’ 2011-12 season will open against Ole Miss at the Desoto Civic Center in Desoto, Miss.
 
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Contact Cameron Warren at [email protected]