LOGAN, Utah – Is FAU ready for the big stage?

The Owls’ record would suggest they are prepared to make a serious run, but it’s important not to jump the gun.

To be a player in the SELC, you’ve got to have some juice, so Florida Atlantic has that going for them.

Heading into the postseason with no experience against a team that was in Salt Lake City last year is where the questions lie.

D-II Round 1: Florida Atlantic at Utah State | https://t.co/RShT31WqmW #virtualmcla20
— MCLA Tournament '21 (@MCLA_Tournament) March 28, 2020

Having a stud faceoff man often translates into success – postseason or otherwise – and the Owls certainly have that in Brandon Huff. The rookie not only wins the faceoff, but gobbles up the ground balls.

Senior Kyle Romano and freshman Drake Summers spearhead an attack duo that is hanging points on everyone. Throw in sophomore Shawn Gildea and you’ve got a problem.

“Stay focused, stay ready, stay respectful. That’s our approach,” said Florida Atlantic coach Stavros Neocleous*. “We’ll keep it simple and just do what we do best. If Utah State is better, hats off.”

Despite the return of senior netminder Berklee Baskin, who was a key factor in the Aggies run to nationals last year, the Utah State backline has been a work in progress.

In fact, the Aggies have a bunch of guys from last year’s run who could break out at any point, led by senior attackman Hunter Pehrson and joined by sophomore Brock Arbon and junior Tanner Smith.

“I’m excited for this one,” said Utah State coach Scott Bingham*. “Florida Atlantic looks great on film and is a real test for us. This is what the postseason is about.”

[*- The coach didn’t really say this. This is all made up. It’s fake]