Blue & Gold Illustrated: America's Foremost Authority on Notre Dame Football
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ND SPORTS multiple times, leaving Schneider as the first man back on defense. In Jack‑ son's system, the first skater back has an added defensive duty. Schneider ex‑ celled in the accidental role. "I played low in the D‑zone a lot be‑ cause I was the first guy back, and it worked out pretty well," he said. "Vinny did a good job on the wall. Coach ap‑ proached us and asked us if we wanted to switch and try it out, and we said sure, give it a try." The accidental switch turned into an organic maneuver that has left Jackson quite pleased. Through six games up to that point, Hinostroza had managed one goal and four assists, along with 12 shots. In the four games — includ‑ ing two road losses to the nation's top team, Minnesota — following the flip, he notched two assists and 11 shots. "It rejuvenated that line a little bit," Jackson said. "It allowed Vinny to be a little freer on the wing to get out of the zone earlier. It allowed Peter, who is probably the strongest guy on our team physically, to be able to play down low defensively." Schneider last consistently played center at the juniors level four years ago, so he points to areas of improvement, but the increased fluidity makes those steps back worthwhile. "He's grown into his role," Jackson said. "He's accepted it. I know he'd love to score more, but he's never been able to do it consistently at our level. "He's turned into a good penalty killer. He's turned into a good defensive player at times. He's still got the speed and the ability to create offense, but he's willing to do what you ask him to do." ✦ "Man Cave" ND Mats Available in four sizes! Starter (19"x30") $23.95 All Star (34"x45") $48.95 Tailgater (5'x6') $139.95 UltiMat (5'x8') $179.95 Plus S&H and Sales Tax: NC, MI, IN 1-800-421-7751 • www.BlueGoldOnline.com NOTRE DAME MAN CAVE MATs