By Mark Snyder
Daily Sports Writer
This week is one of disappointment for the Michigan hockey team.
But for a team like Michigan, the problems are easily remedied.
When the Wolverines bid farewell to their nine-member senior class Saturday at the annual hockey banquet, the players will not only be leaving behind memories, they'll leave a gaping hole in the core of Michigan's team.
Michigan coach Red Berenson took another step towards filling the void.
Josh Langfeld, a right wing from Coon Falls, Minn., became the eighth recruit this season to sign with the Wolverines, the Ann Arbor News reported yesterday.
Langfeld joins the seven recruits Michigan signed in the early recruiting period.
The departure of five forwards and four defensemen has left Berenson looking for help. Chief among the losses were big bodies 6-foot-4 Jason Botterill and 6-1 Warren Luhning - imposing figures on the ice. Just as Botterill and Luhning replaced Mike Knuble as mainstays in front of the net, Langfeld must also use his body to his advantage.
Standing 6-3 and weighing 205 pounds, Langfeld should fit into the role perfectly.
He will join the four forwards and three defensemen who committed to Michigan during fall's recruiting period.
During this past season, Michigan assistant coaches Mel Pearson and Billy Powers traveled throughout North America scouting talent. The long process is not complete because not all of Michigan's nine scholarships for next season have been filled.