The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
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HOCKEY RECRUITING "You won't be blown away by their numbers, but when I look at this group, is there the potential for a [2009 CCHA Rookie of the Year] Da- vid Wohlberg to emerge? All of those players have offense to their game," Powers said. "Lockwood maybe had a little bit better stats. Sanchez has re- ally elevated his game this past year. Last year he was a fourth-line guy, now he's a third-liner and his confi- dence is back or has taken a step. "Nick can be someone that helps us when he's healthy, and Steve should compete for a spot." Michigan's coaching staff planned ahead for the likely loss of Connor after one season, but U-M was sur- prised by the departure of Motte and Compher. The Wolverines suddenly found themselves in need — and in a position to offer some aid to the right prospect. Playing for the Janesville Jets of the North American Hockey League the past three years, the 6-1, 190-pound Winborg recorded 62 goals and 83 assists in 170 career contests. A native Swede, Winborg plays on the same team as LaFontaine, and like both Meike and Merl, he is an older player (21) that should add a veteran dynamic to the five Team USA signees. "Winborg's maturity is part of what makes him such an incredible hockey player," Jets coach and gen- eral manager Joe Dibble said. "He came over from Sweden at such a young age and has battled through so much adversity, including injuries, and he's just battled back and been better every time. "He's come a long way in his ca- reer, but this year, too. He pays a lot of attention to the details of the game and constantly looks for ways to im- prove. This year he noticed he had an opportunity to improve his play away from the puck, and he took it. Nick Pastujov — a 6-0, 199-pound forward from Bradenton, Fla. — contributed 18 points for the U.S. National Development Program Under-18 team this past year. PHOTO BY RENA LAVERTY