Former Penn State goaltender Liam Souliere commits to Gophers

Bob Motzko has his new goaltender.

Former Penn State goalie Liam Souliere announced his decision Wednesday to join the Gophers men's hockey team for his final year of college eligibility.

Souliere joins Minnesota after four years with the Nittany Lions, where he played in 84 games and held a 32-39-3 record. He had a 3.38 goals-against average and a .874 save percentage during the 2023-24 season.

"Dear Penn State, Thank you for an amazing and unforgettable experience," Souliere said in an Instagram post announcing the decision. "Saying goodbye to the place I’ve called home for the past 4 years is painful, but all good things must come to an end. I am forever grateful for the experience I’ve had the privilege to live and wish nothing but the best for the future of this team and school that I love with all my heart. I am excited to announce that I will be joining the University of Minnesota Gophers for the 2024-2025 season!"

After three years of Justen Close in net, the Gophers were looking at a future with new netminder after Close ran out of eligibility.

Minnesota had sophomores Zach Wiese and Matt Bryant as well as freshman Nathan Airey on the roster this season. Owen Bartoszkiewicz had split time between the USHL and NAHL this season with the plan being to return to Minnesota as the squad's starter for the 2024-25 season. With Souliere joining the team it's unclear where those plans stand now.