The U of M recently posted a partial roster for the 2011-12 season. On it are the 18 returning players from last season plus sophomore defensman Chris Student, who practiced with the team but couldn't play because he was a transfer from Northeastern.

Those 19 players break down this way:

Goalies: 2

Defensemen: 6

Forwards: 11

The Gophers are expected to bring in eight freshmen for a 27-man roster. They will add one goalie, two defensemen and five forwards.

Here is where the 19 listed players are from:

Metro area: 12

Outstate Minnesota: 4

Wisconsin: 1

Colorado: 1

Finland: 1

There is one big change on the coaching staff. Mike Guentzel returns as the associate head coach.

One key player left early. Defenseman Aaron Ness gave up his senior season to turn pro. Minnesota also lost forward Max Gardiner after his freshman season. Gardiner, who played sparingly, will be on the Dubuque roster in the USHL this coming season.

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