UNLV Returns Majority of 2013-2014 Squad, with high expectations

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas Roller Hockey team looks to pick up the 2014-2015 season right where they left off in Aston, PA. The program is fresh off its third consecutive final four appearance and returns numerous key players on offense, defense, and in goal. The team will be lead by Senior Co-Captains Anthony Robone and All-American Andrew Tamura. Robone was named to the NCRHA 2013 National Championships All-Tournament team and finished the 2013-2014 season with 25 points in 20 games, while Tamura led the team with 34 goals and 42 assists for a stellar 72 points. Accompanying Tamura at forward will be fellow Senior and 2013 All-American Austin Shannon (65 pts in 2013-2014) . The two have been linemates for each of the past two years and look to improve in all areas for their Senior season as they will also need to fill the void left by goal scorer, 2014 All-Tournament Team member Sam Braniff. Anchoring down the second line at forward will be a trio of Juniors in Eddie Davis, Steven Scamorza, and Chris Raveling. Eddie and Steven are big physical forwards, while the sharp shooter, Raveling, brings more finesse to a second line that has all the tools to carry the Rebels during this year's campaign. 

 

On defense, Anthony Robone will assume his usual leadership role alongside Junior Logan Sussman and Senior Axle Anderton. Sussman won the team's 2013-2014 Most Improved Player award. The native from Hawaii has his sights set on being a major factor in UNLV's scoring this season; with his large frame (6"1' 185lbs) there's no reason to think that's not a possibility. The veteran Anderton really came alive in the 2014 post-season, tallying 6 pts in 11 games for the Rollin' Rebs. He will be paired with newcomer, Emerson Lau. The freshman continues the Hawaii to Vegas recruiting pipeline for the third straight year. Although only a freshman, Lau will have big shoes to fill after the graduation of longtime Rebel defenseman Jared Joerger. Rounding out the defense will be the versatile Senior, Joe Molluzzo. 

 

Finally, UNLV will return the backbone of their team in star goaltender, Terry Martin. The Edmonton, Alberta import was the Reb's biggest surprise last year, posting a solid .850 save percentage to go along with 20 wins. No doubt, Martin isn't satisfied with his hot start as he has worked hard in the offseason competing in numerous tournaments such as AAU and State Wars. 

 

Overall, this Rebel squad is poised for another great season. There is definitely no lack of experience with only one freshman on the current roster. Only time will tell if they can come together and make another solid run in the regular season, Regional Championships, and hopefully National Championships.