Graduating 16 seniors from a season ago would leave many programs in dire straits, but not Eden Prairie. The Eagles have made a state-best nine state tournament appearances and have the depth to reload every season. Despite the success, Lake Conference rival Wayzata has emerged as a thorn in Eden Prairie’s side.
The Trojans defeated the Eagles 6-5 in the state quarterfinals last year, the first time in seven straight state appearances that the Eagles did not reach the semifinals.
Wayzata looks poised to present similar problems this year. The Trojans return 85 percent of last year's scoring production, including leading runners Dalton Seesz (27-7-34) and Brayden Nelson (32-16-48). The duo combined for the final five goals in Wayzata's win over the Eagles last year.
Rutgers commit Collin Penn is Eden Prairie's top returning scorer (19 goals last season) and is among a trio of returning midfielders who are expected to anchor the Eagles' attack.