JARED
KATZ
Wayne State
So. | F | St. Clair Shores, Mich.
The diminutive Katz was willing to battle for loose
pucks, and was a five-time recipient of CHA Rookie
of the Week honors.
Key Statistics: Katz
became the ninth freshman in the history of the program
to finish in the top three in scoring with 11 goals
and 23 points over 35 games. He continued to score at
a steady rate throughout the season including three
goals and five assists over the last 10 games. Katz
was named CHA Rookie of the Week five times, including
three of the last four weeks of the season and he was
one of three Warriors named to the CHA All-Rookie Team.
What He Does: Katz spent
considerable time on the right wing with seniors Nate
Higgins and Jason Bloomingburg and the trio combined
for 72 points, which was more than a quarter of the
team's total point production for the year. He was on
the ice for only four goals against in the last 13 conference
games. Even though Katz is listed at only 5-feet-8 and
145 pounds, he was more than willing to do the corner
work and find open spaces.
The Bigger Picture: With his two senior
linemates departing, the pressure will be on Katz to
find good chemistry with two new running mates and prove
that his numbers weren't just tied to the abilities
of his former veteran associates.
Wayne State coach Bill Wilkinson
on Katz: "He's a fearless little guy.
Small in stature, but with a big heart. He's been leveled
a few times, but he gets right back up. He's not afraid
to show he's got the courage to go inside. He's not
fast, but he's quick. He'll spin you around in the corner
more than once."
