The Standard

Issue date: 12/1/09 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Matt Kile

While towering over other players, senior forward David Schroeder continues to have his way with opposing defenses, not only as the team's tallest player, but also their leading scorer.

Standing tall at 6 foot 5 inches, Schroeder is currently leading the Ice Bears in goals with 19.

"Ever since I started playing competitive hockey, I have tried to be a player that does whatever they can to help my team win," Schroeder said.

With his tall frame, one might think that he looks the part of a defensemen, but Schroeder has played as a forward in his two semesters as an Ice Bear. Prior to his time at Missouri State is a different story.

"Growing up he played forward and defenseman," his coach and father Mike Schroeder said.

After transferring from a division three school in New York last season, David Schroeder made the switch from defenseman to forward. Who would know his abilities better than his father, who ultimately made the decision.

"I felt like we needed a more offensive punch," Coach Schroeder said.

The reason for his success on the offensive side of the puck could be due to the influences of those who held his interest at a younger age.

"I first started playing hockey when I was four. My dad has been a hockey fan his whole life, so he was the person who got me interested," David Schroeder said. "Growing up watching the Blues was great also. Being able to watch guys like Brett Hull, Chris Pronger, and Al MacInnis always kept me interested in the game."

After watching and being influenced by the handy work of such professionals, it is no wonder why he has nearly as many goals as the team has played games.

Without the help of superstitions or bizarre game preparations, David Schroeder relies on raw talent and his teammates around him to take his game to the next level.

"I am generally not a superstitious person, so I prepare by doing the things I have control over," David Schroeder said.

His size and physical play causes, not only frustration for the goalie and opposing players, but it allows for an occasional scrappy goal.

"I have always tried to use my attributes to my advantage, and I always tried to use my size and reach to control and protect the puck," David Schroeder said.

In his two years as an Ice Bear, there have been some memorable moments, but as a senior, one thing is on his mind.

"Just being able to play in regionals, but the ultimate goal is nationals," David Schroeder said.

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