Photo by: Andrew Fielding
Sophomore Beau Bennett has become familiar with the middle child role; however, he will have to get comfortable with acting like the veteran around his real-life older brother, Wade, who joins the Pioneers hockey team this season after playing at the junior level.
The brothers continue what has become a common theme among DU hockey in recent years: the presence of brothers on the roster. Last season, the Pioneers featured the dynamic brother duos of Drew and Nick Shore, as well as captain Kyle Ostrow and his younger brother, Shawn.
“[Having brothers on the same team] obviously helps with the tightness of the team on and off the ice,” said Wade Bennett. “It’s one of those things that can be special if a team can get two skilled players on the same team, which adds camaraderie on the ice and familiarity with how we play.”
While Beau, a highly regarded prospect and first-round draft pick of the Pittsburgh Penguins, is entering his second season, he knows this year will be even more special than his rookie season at the University of Denver.
“[Wade] is living off campus with us and I am helping him pick his classes,” said Beau. “It’s nice to have him here, and being on the road will be a good time.”
Both Beau and Wade have been playing hockey together since they were children, which started on roller blades.
“Growing up we played together, and roller hockey was a big thing in California,” said Beau. “We actually won the Tours of America Roller Championship together when we were around 10 or 11. From that we have made friends that we still hang out with over the summer.”
While Beau and Wade have many things in common, one difference between the two Gardena, Calif. natives is the paths they took to the University of Denver.
“We were both scouted a few years ago at a showcase in Boston,” said Wade. “I always wanted to come to Denver for the academics. I applied as a senior and almost came straight out of high school, hockey aside. Once I started getting recruited and with Beau here it was where I wanted to play.”
Wade previously played for the Wichita Falls Wildcats of the North American Hockey League in 2010 – 2011, and the Trail Smoke Eaters of the British Columbia Hockey League in 2009 – 2010. He recorded three goals in 25 games, one game-winning goal with the Wildcats and three goals and 19 assists with the Eaters.
“He’s a smaller defenseman on the back end, but he is smart,” said Beau of his older brother. “Hopefully he can work himself into the lineup and put up some points for us this season.”
In his freshman year, Beau tallied nine goals and 16 assists in 37 games. Before attending the University of Denver, Beau played for the Penticton Vees, where he was an major offensive threat. In 56 games, Beau scored 41 goals and added 79 assists for a total of 120 points.
“Beau and I went to nationals a couple of times at the AAA level,” said Wade. “He was amazing and playing with him was special.”
With high expectations for Beau, Wade and the entire Pioneer hockey team, a major focus is getting to the national championship game in Tampa Bay, Fla. and winning it, according to newcomer Wade, who was not on the 2011 team that fell short in the NCAA Tournament. The Pioneers open their 2011 – 2012 season with an exhibition game on Oct. 1 at Magness Arena at 7:07 p.m.
