Two veteran Topeka RoadRunners have \”aged out\” of the program but will remain teammates next season as forward Martin Sundstedt and defenseman Jeff Burke join the University of Wisconsin – River Falls Falcons this coming fall.
Martin Sundstedt, who was born in Sweden but was raised in McKinney, TX was one of the original Topeka RoadRunners, and played three full seasons in Kansas, logging 139 regular season games. A gritty worker whose tenacious work ethic earned him the respect of his coaches and teammates, Sundstedt wore an \”A\” on his jersey in his final season and was co-recipient of the teams \”John Stoddard Heart Award\”, voted on by players, coaches and media. He will major in Human Health and Performance. On his time in Topeka, he talks about the rabid fan base and Booster Club as being one of the greatest things about playing as a RoadRunner. The Game 5 overtime win against Fairbanks in the South Division Finals in 2008 stands out as his fondest memory, along with clinching the South Division regular season title in front of a capacity crowd of over 7,700 fans on the last day of the 2009-10 season. Three of his former RoadRunner teammates are already attending UWRF, and while that made his decision easier, he points out that it wasn\’t the deciding factor. He is quick to acknowledge the families who housed him during his time in Topeka, saying they made him always feel at home. He also credits his coaches Scott Langer and R.J. Enga for their tireless efforts in not only coaching but helping all the players grow in every area.
Jeff Burke, who hails from New Richmond, WI is happy to be playing college hockey close to home. The hard hitting, 6\’3\” 215 lb. defenseman made a lasting impression from the start at the RoadRunners camp in Somerset and played two seasons in Topeka. \”I think I will enjoy playing in Wisconsin\”, Burke said. \”It will be close for friends and family to come watch games and I think it\’s going to be a very fun experience.\” His major is as of yet undecided. As he reflects on his time in Topeka, his sentiment seems to echo that of most RoadRunners. \”The greatest thing about Topeka had to be our fan base. They supported us for everything it was a very great place to play.\”
Burke and Sundstedt join former RoadRunners teammates Caleb Wolfgram, Andy Inderieden and Lyle Rocker at River Falls.