Augustana University’s hockey program is entering a pivotal season after narrowly missing the NCAA Tournament last year, a run that left fans hopeful but also highlighted the gaps left by graduation and professional departures.
The most notable loss is star goaltender Josh Kotai, who signed with the NHL’s New York Islanders, leaving big shoes to fill between the pipes.
A Fresh Wave of Freshmen
The incoming class brings a blend of size, skill, and international flair. Erick Comstock, a defenseman from Warroad, Minnesota, will be among the smallest blue‑liners in the NCAA next season, having honed his game across the USHL and NAHL and posted 32 assists with the Watertown Shamrocks. Charles Menard arrives as a positional goaltender who posted the fifth‑highest save percentage in the USHL this year. Cooper Moore, a high‑energy two‑way forward from the Kamloops Blazers of the WHL, tallied 39 points and a career‑high 39 penalty minutes in 68 games. Twins Matvei and Semyon Morshchyonok add depth up front, with Matvei contributing 26 goals and 54 assists for the Austin Bruins and Semyon posting 30 goals and 57 assists in the same league.
Veteran Leadership Remains
Alongside the newcomers, Augustana retains a core of seasoned players who helped the team come close to the tournament last year. Their experience should provide stability as the squad integrates multiple fresh faces.
Looking Ahead
Coaches and analysts alike see the blend of veteran savvy and fresh talent as a recipe for a strong campaign. With a solid defensive foundation, a dynamic offense, and a goaltending corps that must step up in Kotai’s absence, the Vikings are poised to turn last season’s near‑miss into a decisive push for the championship.