CLOQUET, Minn. – When North American Hockey League teams have needed roster relief early this season, their first calls have been to Mason City and head coach Todd Sanden. Just days after Dominic Skrelja donned an Austin Bruins sweater for Saturday’s contest against the Brookings Blizzard, the Minnesota Wilderness called up Brendan Studioso for their home game Wednesday against the Bruins. Studioso finished with a +1 rating in a 6-5 shootout loss against Austin.
The Mukilteo, Washington native has played a huge role in the Bulls’ 6-0-1-1 start to the season, posting a dozen points including four goals. His first tally of the year against Wisconsin in the season opener was the game-winner.
The Bulls and Wilderness have maintained a few connections early this season. The two teams met up in a preseason game in Cloquet shortly before Bryceton Butkiewicz rejoined his old mates for a pair of games at last month’s NAHL Showcase in the Twin Cities. Former North Iowa stars Brett Gravelle and Adam Orn have also made appearances for the Wilderness in recent years.
The Bulls make their home debut for 2017-18 with a pair of games against the Wisconsin Whalers this Friday and Saturday, with both games scheduled for a 7:30 p.m. faceoff. Live video streaming for all games is available on HockeyTV and free audio streaming for Saturday’s home game is available on Mixlr. To purchase tickets for next weekend’s games or any Bulls home game, visit northiowabulls.com/tickets.