A deep playoff run could also be in order for the Wildcats, who will also be looking to return to the WIAA state tournament for the first time in four years.
Verona returns 13 letterwinners, including three of the most talented forwards in the area in juniors Mason McCormick and Brockton Baker and sophomore Mack Keryluk, who return to lead Verona’s high scoring offense. Senior Jack Keryluk leads the Wildcats returns along the blueline.
McCormick led the team with 21 goals (17 assists) for 38 points as a sophomore. He was selected in the 10th round (157th overall) of the Phase I portion of the USHL Draft by the Dubuque Fighting Saints last year.
Baker was third on the team with 13 goals. He also setup 13. Sophomore Mack Keryluk scored nine times and assisted on a team-best 24. Senior Jack Keryluk added six goals and 13 assists.
An already loaded Wildcat roster adds newcomers junior Jake Osiecki, freshman defenseman Nate Jurrens, Leo Renlund and Walker Heassig to the team.
Garhett Kaegi returns between the pipes after compiling a 10-10-1 record last season. He finished with a 3.81 goals against average and an .869 save percentage.
The Wildcats graduated seven letterwinners, including Jack Anderson, who was second on the team with 34 points (15g, 19a), Jake Keyes (15g, 7a) and Jeff Bishop (6g, 13a).