The Colorado Eagles are trying to bring as many players back as they can from last season. One of the biggest surprises from last season’s roster was forward Mark Senden. The Eagles have re-signed Senden to a one-year, AHL contract for the 2025–26 season.
Last season it was doubtful if Senden would make the Eagles’ roster. But injuries for the Colorado Avalanche forced call-ups and gave Senden an opportunity. Senden started with low minutes on the fourth line as head coach Aaron Schneekloth tested him out. In just his third game with the Eagles, Senden scored a goal and an assist against the Abbotsford Canucks (VAN).
Mark Senden with his 2nd goal of the year as the Eagles keep up the pressure after the PP. Polin and Shea both tally their 1st assists of the year. #Avs #GoAvsGo #EaglesCountry @MileHighHockey pic.twitter.com/IgFp8fBzJ1
— Brennan Vogt (@brennan_vogt) November 6, 2024
His grit and determination worked him up the lineup until he was a consistent player on the first or second line. Senden showed that his size did not hold him back either. Standing only five feet ten inches tall, he played like he was a giant. Senden’s consistent hitting of the opposing players along the wall made them hesitant to play the puck while he was on the ice.
Mark Senden hits his 5th of the year for the Eagles lead!!!! Wagner and Stephens on the helpers #Avs #GoAvsGo #EaglesCountry @MileHighHockey pic.twitter.com/YD7lzQI6vg
— Brennan Vogt (@brennan_vogt) January 11, 2025
Last season, Senden had career highs in almost every category. He played a career-high 61 games in the American Hockey League. His 23 overall points exceeded his previous AHL high by 22 points. Senden was a Kelly Cup Champion with the Florida Everblades in 2023–24. He was also a NCHC Champion in 2020–21 and 2019–20 with the University of North Dakota. He has a trophy for every level of competitive hockey he has played in down through high school.
Jedlicka finds that tiny space for the pass to Mark Senden's 4th of the year and cuts the lead in half. Devante Stephens with the secondary assist. #Avs #GoAvsGo #EaglesCountry @MileHighHockey pic.twitter.com/EE4AfEZErX
— Brennan Vogt (@brennan_vogt) December 9, 2024
Having Senden back will help the Colorado Eagles secure their top-three lines and make the fourth line a battle. Senden proved last season that he can play in the American Hockey League and be an effective player. He will definitely stay with the Eagles this season. If he keeps playing his game the way he did last season, he will only get better.