February 16, 2010
Polar Bears’ Wozniak has sights set high
Rick Wozniak had no qualms about coming from Wisconsin to Arizona to further his hockey career.
The first-year Phoenix Polar Bear was familiar with head coach Harry Mahood, having attended his camps since he was 14. Perhaps more importantly, Mahood’s program had a long history of placing players at the next level.
“It’s great for that,” Wozniak said. “It’s the best program for that.”
Sparked by a call from Polar Bears captain Elliot Repka, things fell into place.
“I was actually really excited to come here,” Wozniak said. “I had no doubt that I’d be getting looks from schools and everything with all of Hoody’s coaching abilities, connections and his reputation. No hesitation on that part.”
Wozniak has turned into a major contributor for the Polar Bears, scoring 27 goals and assisting on 29 others through Phoenix’s first 36 games.
“This is what I expected (from the season),” Wozniak said. “I just need to keep getting better.”
Wozniak’s five game-winning goals were also tied for the team lead.
“He’s a slick, skilled player who can be a difference-maker in big games,” Mahood said.
The productive season has earned him looks from more than a few colleges, including St. Mary’s (Minn.), Worcester State (Mass.) and Concordia (Minn.), among others.
“School’s my goal,” Wozniak said.
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