With no seniors, this is the youngest team the Cougars have had for some time, so the annual quest for hardware may be put on hold for a year or two.

“There are different expectations this year,” coach Travis Magnusson said. “Now, the goal is to get into the playoffs and see what happens.”

Expect Magnusson to have Dirigo playing at its best if that happens. Despite losing all-time school scoring leader Riley Robinson and other key parts of their recent identity, the Cougars aren’t going to be a pushovers in December and January, either. They have a pair of starters back in Luke Lueders and Cooper Chiasson. Alex Gorham saw time off the bench last year and is an excellent defender. If the newcomers click with them, they will continue to be a factor in the MVC.