A New Era Between the Pipes
The past two seasons have seen Penn State rely on a tandem of solid netminders, but the departure of Kevin Reidler for the NHL and the expiration of Chris McFayden’s eligibility have left a clear opening for a new leader.
Enter Josh Fleming, a freshman who emerged as the primary starter after impressing in limited action and delivering a 0.78 goals saved above expected per 60 minutes in Big Ten play, a figure that placed him among the conference’s most effective keepers.
Fleming’s résumé includes a standout postseason run that showcased his ability to rise against tough competition, earning him recognition as one of the Big Ten’s most promising returnees alongside Michigan’s Jack Ivankovic.
Depth Behind the Starter
Ryder Fetterolf is slated to see five to ten starts throughout the regular campaign, giving the coaching staff a safety net should Fleming encounter the typical sophomore slump that can accompany a sudden increase in workload.
The early non‑conference slate is deliberately stocked with weaker opponents, allowing the staff to gauge Fetterolf’s readiness while preserving Fleming’s stamina for the rigors of Big Ten competition.
Freshman Crew Petty remains a long‑term project; unless an injury forces a reshuffle, his impact is expected to be minimal, keeping the focus on the two established options.
The broader Big Ten landscape has grown more competitive, with traditional powerhouses such as Wisconsin reaching the national championship game last year, underscoring the need for Penn State’s goaltending to be both reliable and adaptable.
Ultimately, the success of Penn State’s season will hinge on how well Fleming can maintain his early form, how the defensive unit gels around him, and whether the depth chart can weather the inevitable challenges that arise over a grueling schedule.