A year ago, Anders Grongstad found himself at the end of a grueling, 70-plus game campaign as part of the national runner-up Metro Jets of the USPHL. The loss stung, as Grongstad explained “we worked really hard and it was kind of heartbreaking”, but would prove beneficial in how “it was definitely a learning experience and now transitioning to college having that mentality is good.” 

Now a freshman at Worcester State, the Royal Oak, Mich. native has become a key piece of a standout squad for the Lancers. It’s a different style than he’s accustomed to, much more of a sprint than a marathon, and what Grongstad describes as a physically bigger challenge. “Kids are bigger. You get hit harder,” quips the forward. “The biggest difference in college is that you play way less games. So every game means more. Instead of 70 games you get 22 games.” 

The meaningfulness of every matchup has brought about a fresh intensity to number 20’s game. “It’s awesome and we take pride in being a tough team,” regards Grongstad in reference to the hard-hitting MASCAC. “It’s fun being in these games and getting active.” 

He fits right in on WSU’s highest scoring line, “the chemistry has been getting better as the season has gone on.” Along with senior Mikey Wilson and sophomore Brigham Neuhold, the line has accounted for over 30% of all Lancers scoring to this point. The freshman forward has been able to play with a certain ease ever since scoring in his first ever college game back in October. “It was a concern coming in,” explains Anders. “‘Am I going to be able to produce and do what I did at the junior level?’ So (scoring) was nice, it was kinda like now we’re good to go. Just play hockey now.” With that monkey off his back he’s accrued an impressive 15 points (4 goals, 11 assists) and has been paramount to the Lancers success in conference, where they’ve posted a 8-3-1 record up to this point. 

It’s likely his outstanding play on the ice is reflective of how comfortable he is in Massachusetts. “I can see myself living here,“ considers Grongstad. He’s got at least three more years in the Blue and Gold for WSU, and by the looks of it, he’ll be a key piece for the next stretch of Lancer hockey.

~Chris Wright~