A former defenseman, Podsiad scored seven goals
and 19 points in 28 games as Army's first-line
left wing last season.
Key Statistics: Podsiad
was recruited as a defenseman but head coach Brian Riley
recognized his offensive skills and moved the sophomore
from the blue line to left wing in Army’s eighth
game last season, a Nov. 5 contest at Canisius. Placed
on the top unit with Luke Flicek and Bryce Hollweg,
Podsiad tied for third in team scoring with seven goals
and 13 assists (one helper came as a blue liner), a
step up from the 2-5–7 he posted as a freshman
defenseman. Last season Podsiad had three power play
goals, two game-winners and one game-tying tally.
What He Does: Exceptional
skating skills allow Podsiad to make great passes to
his linemates. His versatility as a forward and defenseman
led Riley to use Podsiad in every conceivable situation
on the ice, even putting him back on the blue line during
short-handed situations.
The Bigger Picture: Riley
is counting on Podsiad to become a double-figure goal
scorer for the Black Knights. Podsiad has modeled his
leadership skills after former captain Seth Beamer,
which made him a logical choice to be voted assistant
captain by his teammates. Beware of his practical jokes,
though, pranks which include mischief with empty offices,
idle computers and attaching dollar bills to fishing
line.
Army head coach Brian Riley on
Podsiad: “In his heart, he would much
rather play defense but he has never let his personal
goals get in the way of team goals. He is certainly
one that never puts himself before the team. He is a
great kid, but just as importantly, he is a great representative
of our program and also the Academy.’’
A former defenseman, Podsiad scored seven goals
and 19 points in 28 games as Army's first-line
left wing last season.