Bemidji State Forward Luke Roelofs Focused on Defensive improvements, Leadership Role
ANCHORAGE, AK – Bemidji State University forward Luke Roelofs is entering his sophomore season with a renewed focus on defensive play and a commitment to mentoring incoming players, according to recent interviews and team updates. Roelofs detailed his offseason work addressing areas for advancement identified during his exit meeting with BSU coaching staff.
Roelofs, reflecting on his 2024-25 season exit meeting, said head coach Tom Serratore emphasized the need for quicker defensive reactions and shutting down plays more aggressively. ”Tom really emphasized defending quicker and shutting down plays, being more aggressive in our D-zone,” Roelofs stated. “That’s something I worked on a lot this summer, retrieving pucks. I feel like, in those areas and trying to jump up more on offense, that’s big for me.”
Beyond individual skill development, Roelofs is embracing a leadership role within the Beavers’ programme, which features a mix of returning veterans and new faces. “I told them I want to be somebody the new guys can look up to and ask questions or come to if they’re struggling with something,” he said.He added that he intends to emulate the support he received as a freshman, having frequently sought guidance from the team’s juniors last season.
Roelofs spent the summer back home in Mound, Minnesota, prioritizing strength and conditioning – working in the weight room three to four times a week – while also reconnecting with friends.The Beavers are navigating early-season challenges with injuries to sophomore defenseman Isa parekh and senior forward Adam Flammang,creating opportunities for players to earn increased ice time.
“At the end of the day, we have to make decisions based on play and trust,” Serratore said. “That’s what we’re trying to do, and that’s tough because I want everybody to play good.”