Freshman Hoban looks to make immediate impact

(Photo: Allyson Cummings/WCSN)

Troy Hoban is one of the 14 new recruits who will make their way onto the ice this season for the Sun Devils, and after the graduation of three defensemen, the timing could not have been more crucial.

“I’ve always wanted to play college hockey growing up, so I’m finally achieving that goal and that makes me really excited,” Hoban said.

Playing his last season as a captain in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, the defenseman is ready to bring his experience on the ice and inside the locker room.

“I hope to step in and bring the leadership for the other freshmen and show some experience on the ice,” Hoban said.

The Sun Devils are ready to start a new season after falling in the national tournament’s semifinal round, to Lindenwood. Hoban said his three aims this season include taking home a national title, winning the division, and keeping their winning streak going against rival Arizona.

Hoban is also looking forward to playing his first series down in Tucson, which is regarded as one of the roughest environments in the ACHA.

“I heard it is a lot of fun to go down and play them in their barn and beat them,” Hoban said.

One thing Arizona is known for is their physicality. Last year’s Cactus Cup matchup in early November comes to mind, when defenseman Jordan Young was injured at center ice and carried out of the rink.

That physical style does not scare Hoban by any means. In fact, he embraces it.

“The league I played in last year (MJHL) was a very physical league, so I feel like it’s going to prepare me well for stepping up into college level.”

Hoban, as well as the 13 other Sun Devil recruits, will compete for a spot on the ASU division I roster during the annual Maroon and Gold scrimmage on Thursday, September 5 at Oceanside Ice Arena.