The Gustavus Men’s Hockey team had the best finish of any men’s team by advancing to the NCAA Quarterfinals.

This year was  a year of firsts for the Gustavus Men’s Hockey team. The Gusties had the best finish of any of the men’s varsity teams for the 2009-10 year. The Gusties finished with an overall record of 20-7-2, the first 20-win season for the Gustavus Men’s Hockey program. They also went 12-2-2 in the MIAC to win the regular season title, which was also the first time Gustavus captured the regular season title.

Despite winning the regular season crown, Gustavus lost to St. Thomas on home ice in the MIAC Championship. St. Thomas earned the MIAC automatic bid into the NCAA Tournament, only to draw the Gusties for a heated rematch in the NCAA first round. The Gusties took advantage of their second opportunity and advanced to their second straight NCAA Quarterfinal. The Gusties concluded their season with a hard fought loss against St. Norbert College in Green Bay, Wis. The loss prevented the Gusties from making their second straight appearance in the NCAA Frozen Four in Lake Placid, NY.

The Gustavus offense, led by a trio of forwards, was first in the MIAC in scoring. Senior forward David Martinson led the MIAC with 36 points and 23 goals. Sophomore forward Ross Ring-Jarvi was second in the MIAC in scoring and assists with 30 points and 18 assists. Senior forward Patrick Dynan was first in MIAC with 19 assists and third in scoring with 23 points.

The Gustie defense, led by Senior Tony Palma, Senior Cody Mosbeck and Junior Mitch Carlson, helped Gustavus to have one of the best defenses in the MIAC. This trio of defensemen played the majority of the minutes in the Gustie backline, while also contributing on the offensive end.

Anchored by Junior goalie Josh Swartout, the Gusties boasted one of the best goalies in the conference and the nation. Swartout led the MIAC in four major categories: goal against average, wins, shutouts and minutes played. Swartout also had the third best save percentage in the MIAC.

These standout performers along with a deep and talented roster helped the Gusties to another NCAA Tournament berth and a finish as one of the top eight teams in the nation, earning the Gustavus Men’s Hockey team the Men’s Team of the Year.

Honorable Mention: Basketball, Tennis, Swimming & Diving