Let’s talk about the 24’s
yes, I know that I’m skipping the senior class…and yes, there are some great ‘23s that we’ll get to at some point this year….but I’d put money on the ‘24s being the best class in MN right now. Let’s take a look at a small breakdown.
Tier 1
Sky Rold- In 18 games he put up 32 goals and 30 assists for a BSM team that won it all. I’ve had the opportunity to watch him play from the sidelines and the kid can do whatever you want him to do. Matches feet well when playing SSDM, gets tough ground balls, and knows what to do with the ball on offense. Will we see him in the 2023 season? Rumors are he’s hurt, but when he’s on the field he’s as good as they get.
Brol Scherman- In 17 games he put up 36 goals and 28 assists for a Centennial team that upset Chanhassen at state on their way to 4th place in 2022. I’m biased here, but I think he’s got the smoothest shooting stroke in the state. Sneaky athletic, and has great lax IQ. Will he be able to shoulder a bigger burden with Centennial losing two D1 seniors on O?
Gus Bell- 35 goals, 24 assists in 18 games for Bell. Benilde has produced some great midfielders, and Bell is no slouch. Physical, shoots lights out, and great at finding soft spots in the defense. If I need a goal, I’m giving him the ball..or dodging to him to dump for a rocket.
Owen Baker- Had 71 gbs and 17 forced turnovers at Jefferson in 2022. Plays as solid of D as they come and an easy 2nd-team all state choice in 2022. Best pole in the state.
Jack Tocko- 28 goals, 13 assists in 17 games for 2nd place Prior Lake. It’s easy for teams in 2022 to miss Tocko when you’re looking at Simo, Mickett, and Spratt, but that only helps him moving forward. He’s got the hands and the IQ to help PL get back to the championship game.
Bennett Lindman- Will he be recognized as the best keeper in the state this year? .658% save percentage. 64 goals allowed on 187 shots. Now, he doesn’t see the most shots as the D is very solid at Jefferson, but they trust their goalie to steal some games. Held PL and BSM to 6 goals each in 2022.
The rest of the group-
Daxton Bush- (Chan) 15g, 8a in 15 games
Jack Bourget- (BSM) no D stats
Jaden Theile- (Chan) 33gbs, 26ft in 18 games
Danny Burke- (EP) 20g, 11a
Rylan Dickenson- (Blaine) 258sog, 120ga, .535% in 12 games
CJ Sheffield- (PL) 60gb, 29ft in 17 games
Sam Simon- (Eagan) 34g, 7a in 15 games
Devin Mueller- (WBL) 26g, 24a, in 15 games WBL
Sammy Lewis- (Providence Acad.) 43, 27a in 14 games
Brady Nickel- (Hastings) 56gb, 29ft, 4g, 5a in 13 games
Will Schneider- (Wayzata) No D Stats
Before unloading in the comments section that these numbers aren’t THAT impressive….and you know “a ton” of ‘23s that are simply better….. just keep it in mind that these players were all sophomores in 2022 and contributors to good programs. Maybe I got the tier 1 kids wrong, maybe I missed some kids, but I’m just a former section 7 coach…what do I know.
