The Albert Lea boys' hockey team started practice this week in preparation for their upcoming season. The Tigers return 11 letter winners from last season, in which they went 16-10-1. - Tyler Julson/Albert Lea Tribune

After a second-round loss in the Section 1A tournament last season, the Tigers are hungry for redemption this year. - Tyler Julson/Albert Lea Tribune

While the team will have less depth than last season, head coach Jason Fornwald said this season's players are a great group of student athletes with a great leadership core. - Tyler Julson/Albert Lea Tribune

Fornwald said the keys to success this season will be the great work ethic the boys bring to the rink and their ability to improve each day. - Tyler Julson/Albert Lea Tribune

Jason Forwald is entering his eighth season as a head coach and third as head coach of the boys' varsity team. - Tyler Julson/Albert Lea Tribune