Opinion Piece: Pre-Season Roster Review
A new season is upon us, and it's that time again—the annual pre-season roster review. The 2024-25 EIHL off-season has been one of change for the franchise, with significant personnel swapping Manchester for pastures new, most notably former Head Coach Matt Ginn. An excellent previous campaign will have many Storm fans dreaming of a repeat performance, myself included; however, patience might well be the word and mindset required, as many of the new faces and coaching staff will need some time to find their groove. The following is the first part of an opinion-based review discussing the announced goaltenders and defencemen for the 2024-25 Elite League campaign:
Evan Weninger:
Touted in last year’s pre-season roster review as “sporting one of the best CVs within our entire roster,” this claim was vindicated by a mightily impressive rookie EIHL season. In 47 games, the netminder maintained a .929 save percentage and a 2.54 goals-against average, rightly earning himself a spot in the league’s All-Star nominations. Weninger is now undoubtedly one of the most prized assets within the entire franchise, and securing his signature for one more year has been a substantial boost to the prospects for the upcoming season. If Weninger can replicate his debut campaign, the chances of a play-off spot are significantly enhanced.
Alex Oldale:
At just 19, this young British goalie has immense potential and a wonderful work ethic—the ultimate combination for success in professional sports, many would agree. Oldale recorded his first career shutout against the Blaze at the backend of last season, one of several impressive performances in a Storm jersey. A two-year contract extension signed in April was thoroughly deserved after the talented Brit stepped up massively over the festive period when Weninger picked up an injury. Opportunities may be limited, as is natural within the EIHL, but when called upon, Oldale will be ready to go.
CJ Garcia:
A deal that previously took almost three years to happen did not take anywhere near as long to extend after the defenceman put pen to paper before summer started. One of only two skaters to play every game last year, Garcia made quite an impression with the fanbase, as his personality soon became known. The affinity between the blueliner and the city of Manchester is notable, as Garcia has opted to remain in the northwest for the entirety of the off-season. A solid performer and experienced skater, Garcia will be depended upon to log similar minutes to last season.
Chase Harrison:
Another member of the returning leadership crew, the 27-year-old was as consistent as ever over the course of the 2023-24 season. Harrison forms part of a defensive group with over 600 cumulative EIHL appearances, and this vast experience will be relied upon throughout the year. Expect more of the same from Harrison—tidy without being flashy, and always putting his body on the line.
Zach Sullivan:
Back for his fifth full campaign at the Storm and tenth within the Elite League, Sullivan provides a huge amount of experience. For a non-arena budget being worked with here in Manchester, this type of player is hard to acquire. The mutual respect held by Finnerty and Sullivan cannot be understated in ensuring Sullivan continues to return to Manchester despite offers elsewhere. Nearly all the fans within the Shelter know what to expect from ‘Sully’ by now, and his stay-at-home style will certainly continue.
Joe Morrow:
A signing that took the league by storm... Morrow’s NHL pedigree was instantly recognisable, and his return has delighted the entire fanbase. This will be the first time the blueliner has returned to a franchise for consecutive campaigns since 2018-19, putting into context the appreciation the first-round NHL draft pick has for the city and club. After turning down multiple notable offers, Morrow is undoubtedly the jewel in the crown, and his calming presence on the blueline bolsters the chances of victory on any given night. Morrow is easily a top-five player within the entire league, and I would expect to see him logging more than twenty-five minutes of ice-time per game.
Noah Carroll:
Another NHL draft pick, Carroll is a well-sized defenceman with great skating and playmaking skills. I expect Carroll to take a spot in the Top Four from the outset and play a significant role throughout the season. This was a deal that the franchise desperately wanted, and adding someone of his age with AHL experience is normally reserved for the bigger-budget teams within our league. I feel this piece of recruitment has quietly sailed under the radar, and Carroll could well surprise a few with his complete game.
Dallas Ehrhardt:
Ehrhardt has been the face of the franchise for as long as any Storm fan can remember. A dependable player who can contribute at both ends of the ice, more of the same is what we can all expect from the dual-national. I feel with a newly appointed Head Coach, Ehrhardt and Morrow will be the two skaters he calls upon most throughout the season, particularly at the start of the campaign. The icon that is Dally plays on, and he shows no signs of stopping just yet.
Words by: Callum Schora
