Offseason breakdown No. 146: Warroad

With the 2020-21 season still months out, it’s time to take a look at teams from all over the State of Hockey and examine what happened this past season and what’s ahead. The next team we’re breaking down is Warroad.

How last season went

When thinking about Minnesota high school hockey, the Warriors’ name quickly comes up as one of the traditional powers, especially in the northern part of the state. Warroad proved those assumptions to be right last season.

The Warriors came out firing from the start as they rattled off 13 consecutive wins to open the season. That success continued throughout the regular season. They won the Mariucci Conference while outscoring their opponents by nearly four goals per game.

At the end of the regular season, Warroad stood at 23-2 and held wins against St. Cloud Cathedral, Thief River Falls, East Grand Forks and Moorhead.

Come section tournament time, the Warriors were heavy favorites as the top seed in Section 8A. Warroad lived up to those expectations. The Warriors cruised to the section crown by outscoring their three opponents by a total of 19-0. 

After being the top seed in section play, Warroad was the No. 1 seed in the Class 1A tournament. The quarterfinals were a breeze for the Warriors as they won 9-3 against Hutchinson. In the semifinals, things toughened up as they faced Mahtomedi. The Zephyrs shocked Warroad as they won 5-1 and ended the Warriors’ state championship dreams.

In the third-place game, Warroad suffered its fourth loss of the season by falling to St. Cloud Cathedral, 6-4.

Who’s back and who’s gone

Grant Slukynsky Grant Slukynsky Forward Warroad | 2020 State MN was one of the top scorers in the state last season as a senior. He eclipsed the 100-point mark with 39 goals and 62 assists. Meanwhile, fellow senior Owen Meeker also graduated after posting 40 points (18 goals, 22 assists). Both players have graduated and departed the program.

As for the expected returners, look no further than Jayson Shaugabay (30G, 39A) and Anthony Fosler (29G, 30A). Both were key scorers last season.

In net, Zach Foster handled most of the goaltending duties last season as he posted a 1.71 goals against average and a .906 save percentage in 26 games. Jack Orchard may be asked to take over that main role after posting a 0.74 goals against average and .953 save percentage in 5 appearances.

What to expect next season 

Warroad will forever be a household staple in the high school hockey scene. The Warriors have a big hole to fill in Slukynsky. But this program is well and able to do that while also being in the conversation for a state title. Expect to see Warroad competing for that state championship crown next season.