Steele County Players Skate for College Hockey Opportunity
Junior hockey players hope to land the eye of a college scout while grinding through a long season of games and travel. And the clock is always ticking. Among the age-out players on the Steele County Blades roster this season are Mason Friedrichs and Brady Rossbach.
Friedrichs of Lakewood, CO previously played against the Blades while skating for other teams in the US Premier Hockey League, but is happy to settle into Owatonna for his final year of juniors, "My advisor knew [Blades' coach] Nick Adamek and knew it was a reputable program and knew he had a lot of connections to the colleges."
He says scouts are looking for players who are dedicated to the details, "Just doing the little things right. Managing your body language is one big thing that we try to look at...Trying to make sure you're not giving up pucks you shouldn't be. And being as good as you can be on the ice."
Hear interview with Mason Friedrichs
Rossbach of New Berlin, WI returns to Steele County after playing with the Blades last season, but with a side trip to a small town in Canada early this season, "Everybody knows everybody up there. And the whole town comes to watch you play, even watches you practice...It's very different, but at the same time, it's still just hockey."
He's happy to be back in Owatonna, and enjoys the recognition around town, "Hey, you're 24 off the Blades. And I'm like 'Yeah. That's me.' So, I love that aspect. Everybody smiles around here."
Rossbach feels very good about the potential of this team, "I've played on five junior teams throughout my lifetime. To be honest, this season I have the most hope for us going to [nationals].
He's hopeful for his own future, "I'm working on getting recruited right now. These showcases definitely help out. These are the big things for an age-out like me."
Listen to interview with Brady Rossbach
The Blades host the Dells Ducks on Friday, November 11 at 7 pm at the Four Seasons Centre in Owatonna. The Minnesota Mullets come to Owatonna on Saturday, November 12 for a 7 pm faceoff.
Check out previous player interviews with members of the Steele County Blades.
- Dylan McCloskey and Brody Ward
- Cody Vittori and Eddie Gustin
- Steven Pribula and Elliot Bauer
- Noah LaFleur and Levi Preugschas
- Anders Thorager and Peyton Inks