MIKE LOUWERSE
Minnesota State
So. | F | Brooklyn Park, Minn.
Mike Louwerse scored 13 goals for Minnesota State as a freshman; the only WCHA rookie with more goals last season was Denver's Luke Salazar (15).
Key Statistics: Louwerse started fast with two goals in the season opener and finished as the Mavericks’ top-scoring rookie last season, matching his 13 goals with 13 assists. He led the team with nine power-play goals and was in the top 20 in the nation in points per game by a freshman.
What He Does: After just four games in the 2007-08 season, Louwerse needed a pair of sports hernia surgeries and took a medical redshirt, forcing him to start all over in 2008-09. Looking back, both he and coach Troy Jutting agree that was the best thing that could’ve happened as he might not have been physically ready for the college game two years ago, coming directly from the Minnesota high school level. The extra year gave him a head start on a marketing degree and a chance to hit the weights, establishing a strong base which makes it harder for opponents to move him away from the front of the net when the Mavericks are on the power play.
The Bigger Picture: Louwerse’s coaches, teammates, and a growing army of fans in southern Minnesota love what he did as a rookie, especially on the power play, where Mike manned the back door all season. Now he’s looking to take the next step offensively, aiming for more five-on-five production and becoming, in his head coach’s words, “effective in all zones of the rink.” Last season there was a natural on-ice chemistry that developed when Louwerse and Ryan Galiardi were paired, so look for a reunion there. The Mavericks will feature a dozen seniors and juniors on their roster this season, giving reason for hope that veteran leadership and an influx of sophomore spark from players like Louwerse will mean the return of home playoff games to Mankato.
Minnesota State coach Troy Jutting on Louwerse: “He had a great year as a freshman, scoring 13 goals, but now he needs to round off his game. Offensively, Mike is very intuitive. He has a great feel for the game and knows where he needs to be and when he needs to be there.”
