Boomer Sonnek sees a lot of similarities between Edina girls' hockey and the University of Minnesota football.

Both teams are dealing with health issues that have sidelined beloved coaches. And both are using it to provide that extra bit of motivation that can push a team to heights than it may normally have achieved.

The Gophers, of course, are 8-2 and have won four consecutive Big Ten games with coach Jerry Kill recuperating from a bout with epileptic seizures.

Edina lost its coach, Laura Slominski, to a fractured neck suffered in a hockey game on Sept. 29.

"When you think about it, it's almost exactly the same situtation," said Sonnek, a senior goalie whose given first name is Rebecca. "Slomo comes to every game and talks to us and still acts like a coach. Our team loves to have her around."

With Dean Williamson serving as interim head coach while Slominski recovers, the Hornets have jumped to a 4-0-1 start. Sonnek said the team expected to have a good season, but the injury to Slominski has helped the team develop a focus for the season.

Having a big say in Benilde-St. Margaret’s aspirations will be forward Kelly Pannek, left, regarded as perhaps the state’s best all-around female athlete.

"It's brought us together as a team," she said. "It really showed how much it means to us to have her as a coach. And it's helped us appreciate the opportunity we have to play hockey."

Edina is just one of many west metro teams expected to have standout seasons. Here is a quick look at the teams to watch in the west:

CLASS 2A

Minnetonka: Boasting three consecutive Class 2A state titles and a tremendous backline of Sydney Baldwin, Kelsey Crow and goalie Hannah Ehresmann, the Skippers deserve plenty of top-team love.

Benilde-St. Margaret's: An immensely talented team led by perhaps the state's best all-around female athlete, forward Kelly Pannek.

Eden Prairie: The Eagles can score with four legitimate lines. Youth at defense and finding a replacement in goal for graduated three-year starter McKenzie Johnson pose questions.

Hopkins: With 16 of 18 players back from last season's team and a fast, slick style of play, the Royals will be fun to watch.

Edina: The Hornets' Slominski-fueled motivation, on top of strong defense and goaltending, should keep them in every game.

Others worth noting: Wayzata, North Wright County, Buffalo, Armstrong/Cooper

CLASS 1A

Blake: With forwards Karlie Lund, Alex Lovaas and Carly Bullock and a solid defense corps, life after Dani Cameranesi doesn't look too bad for the defending state champion.

Breck: All-everything Kate Schipper is gone, but the Mustangs' commitment to youth last season will pay off for first-year coach Ronda Engelhart.

Orono: The top six scorers and top four defensemen are back and will be a big asset as the Spartans transition to freshman goalie Maddie Carlson.

Others worth noting: Mound-Westonka, Holy Family/Waconia, Holy Angels, Minneapolis Novas.

Jim Paulsen • 612-673-7737