This was a banner weekend for former Triton hockey player Sawyer Scholl. On Friday, he committed to play hockey at Wisconsin, and on Saturday he had his regular season debut for the USHL’s Green Bay Gamblers.

A two-year captain for NDA, Scholl amassed 94 points on 32 goals and 62 assists over three years with the Tritons. 

“My three years at NDA are something I’ll never forget and something I’ll cherish for the rest of my life,” Scholl said. “I don’t think I’m able to put into words how to describe it because there are so many emotions and strings attached to it all.”

After graduating from Notre Dame, Scholl was selected by the hometown Green Bay Gamblers in the 2020 USHL Draft.

“It was a super cool experience when Green Bay drafted me since I had grown up in the area and gone to a lot of games growing up,” Scholl said. “It’s crazy to think how lucky I got.”

“Sawyer is a special player,” NDA varsity hockey coach Cory McCracken said. “[I’m] very happy for him that he’s starting to see the hard work pay off.”

For Scholl, the transition from high school to USHL play went smoothly. 

“We had a long training camp and it was super competitive and fun,” Scholl said. “Practices are every day.  We try to make them as game-like as possible, so we’re ready when the lights are brightest.”

“You don’t play in the USHL without talent and skill,” McCracken said. “Sawyer has the requisite skill set to play at that level and have success.”

One of the many unknowns of 2020 has been navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. The USHL was one of the many leagues that had their season cut short or cancelled in March, but the 2020 season was able to commence in a safe manner.

“We do a lot of extra things in addition to COVID testing to ensure that no one has any exposure,” Scholl said. “Our equipment manager disinfects the locker room and the equipment often and always we take temperatures before going to the rink.”

For Scholl, his choice for where he would play his college hockey was a no-brainer. Wisconsin was his dream program. 

“I chose Wisconsin because growing up here, we always go to the games with dreams of being a Badger,” Scholl said. “On top of that, with the first-class facilities and coaching staff, it was an easy pick.”

“It will be a treat to watch him play in Green Bay the next two years,” McCracken said. “And there is no doubt in my mind that he will excel as a Badger when the time comes.”