By John Hepokoski
UWRF Sports Information

The Falcons look solid once again and part of the reason is their depth at the goalie position. Senior Andy Scanlon plays a huge role in making the goalie unit strong.

After a solid junior season, Scanlon looks to impress as he enters his last season for the Falcons.

Scanlon's hockey career began at the age of four when he first learned to skate. "My Dad and my brothers had the greatest influence on me and that's how I started on hockey," Scanlon said.

Scanlon played hockey consistently throughout his childhood that led him to be successful in all levels he played. Scanlon went to high school in Apple Valley, Minn., and showed a lot of promise early. His favorite hockey memory took place in high school when his team won a tournament in Rochester.

Following high school, Scanlon moved on to juniors where he played for Helena of the AWHL. After recording a .909 save percentage UW-River Falls was the next step.

"I chose River Falls solely based on the success of the hockey program and the education quality I would be offered for my major," Scanlon remarked.

The Falcons benefited greatly by way of recruiting Scanlon. Scanlon's first season was by far his best statistically.   In the 2004 season, Scanlon notched a 13-4-3 record, collected 522 saves, and had a .935 save percentage.   For these stats and leadership on the ice Scanlon was awarded team MVP honors along with honorable mention awards from both the NCHA and WIAC.   The .935 save percentage ranked Scanlon second in the NCAA Div. III.

Coming into his junior season, Scanlon's effort and statistics held strong.   Scanlon's 2005 season ended with an 8-6-2 record, 2.62 goals against average, and a .909 save percentage. Included in the eight wins were two shutouts, the second being in the NCHA playoffs against Stout.

When asked what his greatest Falcon hockey memory was, Scanlon responded, "It would have to be when we beat St. Thomas my sophomore year." The Falcons bear the Tommies, 3-2 in overtime, in the NCAA playoffs at Hunt Arena.

"Andy has had a tremendous career and is as good as anyone who has ever played for River Falls," Falcon Coach Steve Freeman commented.

In his spare time, Scanlon enjoys to simply relax and have fun. He enjoys playing sports and to beat friends in poker. "After college, being a professional poker player would be the ideal career," Scanlon said with a laugh.

When growing up in Apple Valley, Scanlon remembers the trips his family would take to their cabin and how enjoyable those times were. They were always fun due to having three other siblings. Scanlon has two brothers and a sister.   Hockey is a common bond that brings the whole family together.

Scanlon's sister, Jenna, plays hockey for the UW-River Falls women's team.

"Jenna pretty much learned hockey from everyone in the family, the only person in the family who doesn't have a hockey background is my Mom."

This season started off great for Scanlon and the Falcons with an 8-0 win against Lawrence. Scanlon made 21 saves and recorded his first win of the season and his sixth career shutout. Scanlon's second start came in the Falcons first loss of the season against Gustavus Adolphus. Despite the loss, Scanlon recorded 29 saves.

"I have learned a lot about teamwork here at River Falls and that is what I am going to take away when I leave," said Scanlon. "I have learned a lot from both River Falls and Coach Freeman. Coach Freeman has taught me about how to work hard and how to play solid defense."

Scanlon looks to lead the Falcons deep into the playoffs this season.   He plans to graduate this year with a major in business and marketing.

Andy Scanlon