Express Player Profiles - Arnason & Tolkinen

Express Player Profile - Pat Arnason - Goalie - 6'3"/200lbs - Express Jersey #30

1990 birth year from Grand Forks, North Dakota. Played his high school hockey for the Red River HS Roughriders, a perennial powerhouse in North Dakota (appeared in 10 of the last 12 title games). In 2007/08 he played in 24 games posting a 20-3-1 record with a 1.78 goals against average, and a .915 save percentage. He was named to the 2008 North Dakota All-Senior Team, and played for Team North Dakota in the Chicago Showcase Tournament.

My take: Now before you comment that this was just North Dakota hockey and doesn't prove much about his ability, he was in goal in a win over Warroad, a tie against Bloomington Jefferson, and a 2-1 loss to Roseau. He is the tallest goalie to ever play for the Express at 6'3". He's entering his first year of juniors, so it might take a little time to adjust to the speed of play in the NAHL.


Express Player Profile - Zach Tolkinen - Defenseman - 6'2"/184lbs - Express Jersey #22

1989 birth year from Lino Lakes, Minnesota. Played high school hockey at Centennial HS. Won the Hobey Baker High School Character Award, and was named to the All-Northwest Suburban Conference Team his senior year. 2007/08 - Scored 4 goals and 6 assists. 2006/07 - Scored 1 goal and 7 assists and was teammates with former Express player Jordan Singer. Played on the section 5 team in the Great 8 Tournament, and attended the Tri-City Storm(USHL) tryout camp this summer. Was also an All-Conference tennis player at Centennial.

My take: I don't know much about him, but I like what I've seen of his game at the Friday scrimmage, and Saturday's game. His defensive partner was fellow NAHL rookie Tim Smith.


--BK