It was one year ago this week that Ryan Stoa’s sophomore season at Minnesota ended before it had really begun, as the forward suffered a season-ending, surgery-requiring knee injury. So it was great to see Stoa — now the captain for the Gophers — score tonight in his first game since Oct. 13, 2007. It’s a nice story, especially in light of unfortunate injury news elsewhere in college hockey this week.

Before the game, Stoa talked about his long-awaited return with Fox Sports North, saying in part, “I’m excited. Being on the sidelines isn’t any fun. Nobody wants to do it, but it rejuvenates you in a way. I’m just happy to be at the rink, being with the guys. I’m so excited to play.”

In addition to a shorthanded goal, Stoa also assisted on the eventual game-winner in an entertaining 3-2 win at St. Cloud. And Minnesota goaltender Alex Kangas, a 2006 fifth round draft pick (Atlanta Thrashers), stopped Huskie forward Aaron Marvin, a 2006 third round pick (Calgary Flames), with a memorable save in the final seconds.

Friday, October 17th, 2008 - 11:34 pm | Commentary