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Season Preview
Bill Elgersma is back for his seventh year at the helm of the men’s program in 1999. Elgersma has compiled a 74-30-9 record in his first six years. Last year’s men were 11-5-1 and qualified for the NAIA Independent Region play-offs, losing in the first-round at University of Mary in North Dakota. Coach Elgersma loses five seniors from last year’s squad including leading goal scorer Jon Pelster (Edmonton, Alberta). Pelster netted 15 goals in 17 games last season, scoring a total of 33 points (goals plus assists). “Losing Pelster leaves a huge hole up front for us,” said Elgersma. “To go along with that the entire mid-field from 1998 is gone.” “To say the least we are very young,” added Elgersma. “I have only five seniors and two juniors on my 20-man roster.” The Dordt men do return last year’s second leading scorer in junior Paul Mortlock (Spokane, Washington). As a sophomore Mortlock knocked in seven goals and scored 23 points. Senior Arlan Vander Woude (Ramona, California) returns at keeper after compiling 145 saves and allowing 25 goals in 1998. Coach Elgersma will look to freshmen and sophomores to fill spots on this year’s roster. “I need to be patient with the young guys,” stated Elgersma. “I think by the middle of October they will have figured the college game out; however, I do look for some impact from my freshmen early in the season.” The men open their season in Rapid City, South Dakota, on Friday, August 27 versus National American University at 8:00 p.m. “Our schedule is tough,” stated Elgersma. “But sometimes you have to play over your heads to get better, and with last year’s tough schedule we had some pleasant surprises.” |
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