Sophomore sensation leads by example, not with words
By MATT ORENCHUK
Sports Writer
Connor Dunlop isn't known for making big speeches before the game. After all, he is only a sophomore and there are many other older guys on the team.
But that doesn't stop Dunlop from making his statements on the ice. In December Dunlop and freshman Rob Globke were named to the U.S. Junior National Team. The team consisted of U.S. college players and NHL draftpicks.
The Junior Team practiced for a couple of weeks in December and then made the long trip to Moscow to compete in the World Junior Championships. Dunlop was named one of two captains on that team.
"It was a surprise being named captain," Dunlop said. "It was nice to know the guys look up to you."
Assuming a leadership role isn't easy considering this is only his second year on the team. Instead, Dunlop does his talking through his play on the ice.
"Connor might be a little hesitant because he is young," Notre Dame team captain Ryan Dolder said. "His leadership is on the ice. He makes things happen and sets up other guys."
Dunlop's first two games back were this past weekend, where he contributed to an impressive win and tie against No. 5 Western Michigan.
His play couldn't have come at a better time for the struggling Notre Dame hockey team. The Irish have battled all season to win games.
This weekend Notre Dame tries to keep the momentum going with a two-game home series against the Ohio State Buckeyes. The most important factor going into the game might be Notre Dame's confidence level.
"We tried to keep momentum and especially confidence this week," Dolder said. "If every guy wants to be there then it is that much easier to play."
Notre Dame expects an entirely different game from Ohio State than it saw last weekend with Western Michigan. While Western Michigan likes to play a fast, open game, the Buckeyes will be looking to slow down the game. That means Ohio State will try to frustrate Notre Dame's tight defensive style that is characterized by lots of penalties.
When asked about Ohio State, Irish coach Dave Poulin noted the Buckeyes are young and talented. Freshmen Dave Steckel and RJ Umberger are second and third, respectively, in scoring for the Buckeyes.
"Ohio State has a young team, but with two highly talented freshman," said Irish head coach Dave Poulin.
The Irish are only two points out of the last playoff spot, and there is a lot of hockey left. Including this weekend, Notre Dame has 12 games left against CCHA teams. That means that with a nice run they could still make the CCHA tournament and move up to as high as eighth in the standings.
This is where the leadership of someone like Connor Dunlop could be very useful. His play on the ice could be just what the Irish need to break out of their season long slumber.
"I want to strive to be a leader," Dunlop said. "It is something I have done on every level of hockey, and I am trying to grow into that role now."
All Sports Stories for Friday, January 19, 2001
