"It's the biggest numbers out that we've ever had," said Shebuski. "There will be a lot of competition for varsity spots, which is a good problem to have. It's a new problem for us."

There is some talent back from last year's 12-5-1 team (6-2-1 in the South Suburban Conference), starting with seniors Kyle Fenske and Austin Gaffney. The Lakers lost 4-2 to Edina in the section final.

Fenske is back on defense, while Gaffney will be up front to help support the offense.

"We have a good mix of experience and new faces," said Shebuski. "This team is really pulling together well."

Chemisty was a big reason for the Lakers' success last year. Gaffney feels the same type of cohesion exists with this team.

"We're friends and we have played and known each other for years," said Gaffney. "We have to stay positive and keep working our tails off every game. We're confident we can play with any team."

Prior Lake will open the season Aug. 23 at White Bear Lake in a non-league game at noon. The Lakers get an early crack at Edina at home Aug. 26 at 8 p.m.

Prior Lake is at Chanhassen (also a section foe) Aug. 28 and will open the SSC season at Lakeville South Sept 2. Both those games start at 5:30 p.m.

Joining Fenske on the Lakers' defense this fall will be seniors Matt Bemis, Sathia Prak and Jimmy Zimmer and juniors Jacob Miller and Adam Grund.

In the midfield with Gaffney will be seniors Austin Clifford and Nick Sabin, juniors Mitch Cater, Mason Shrewsbury and Badaso Adem and sophomore Steven Wright.

At forward will be senior Christian Metzger and sophomores Carlos Blanco and Connor Smith.

In goal, senior Matt Bateman and sophomore Zach Hanson will open as the No. 1 and 2 in net, respectively.

"Coming off a season like the had last year, I've been impressed with the guys so far," said Shebuski. "They're committed. We are in one of the toughest sections in the state, so it won't be easy to get back to the title game.

"But we believe we can compete with the best teams," added Shebuski. "We play a great schedule. Our conference is very strong, so we'll be prepared for the playoffs."

Eden Prairie, Minnetonka and Bloomington Jefferson are also in the section field and all three programs expect to be formidable again this fall, along with Edina.

The Lakers were also in the section title game in 2007, losing that year to Eden Prairie (4-2).