Quinnipiac University Sets Sights on Conference Title and National Championship
As the 2024-25 season approaches, Quinnipiac University team is ready to build on last year’s experiences and aim for greater success. Despite falling short in the Purple Division Conference Playoffs and National Championship tournament, the team returns with a core of experienced players and promising new recruits. Under the leadership of Head Coach Dave Brennan, Quinnipiac is determined to make a deeper run this season and capitalize on their potential.
Returning Forwards:
Quinnipiac boasts an impressive group of returning forwards, including last season’s standout performers, Shawn MacTavish (6 goals, 15 assists, 21 points) and Jacob Noyes (11 goals, 8 assists, 19 points). They’ll be joined by other key contributors such as Alexander Chaconas, John Cielo, and Jake Russo, whose experience and scoring ability will drive the team's offense.
New Forwards:
The incoming forwards add vigor and bring additional depth and skill to Quinnipiac’s attack. Darin O’Dell from the Philadelphia Little Flyers (18U AAA) had 27 points in 28 games last season, and Louis Cutalo from St. Anthony’s High School will look to make an immediate impact. C.J. Dolan. Gerard Nealon, and Cameron Pasquin will bring a blend of high school and junior hockey success. Quinnipiac's recruits are expected to bring fresh energy and talent to the team's offense.
Returning Defensemen:
On defense, Alex Umbro and Zack Raposa anchor a strong returning group that will provide stability and offensive support. Both players lead a formidable defensive unit focused on stifling the opposition while swiftly transitioning the puck to their forwards for offensive opportunities. Alongside them are Gavin Arabian, Brandon Cuccaro, Matthew Ditullio, Chris Kosakowski, Josh Levesque, and Aidan Maginn, all poised to play critical roles on the blue line.
New Defensemen:
Logan Goodman, a promising recruit from the Canterbury School, adds further depth to the defense. His two-way play style will be valuable for Quinnipiac as they focus on tightening up their back end for the upcoming season.
Returning Goaltenders:
Netminder Ryan Solomon, a critical part of Quinnipiac’s roster, returns after a standout season that included representation on Team Empire during the 2024 AAU College Hockey All-Star Challenge and earning First Team All-Empire honors. Kenny Luttman and Tyler Stiewing also return to provide reliability between the pipes.
New Goaltenders:
Carmine Andranovich joins the goaltending unit, bringing experience from his time with the Seacoast Spartans in the EHL, ready to contribute to Quinnipiac's goals for a deep playoff run.
Looking Back at Last Season:
Quinnipiac’s 2023-24 campaign was filled with highs and lows. Despite losing to eventual champions Fairfield University in the Purple Division Playoffs for the second consecutive season, they entered the National Championship as the 10th seed. In the National Championship, they showcased their potential by defeating eventual finalist and higher-seeded team, University at Buffalo, underscoring their capability to compete at high levels, but ultimately fell short against Auburn University and St. Bonaventure University, ending their national title hopes.
Outlook for the 2024-25 Season:
With key contributors like Alex Umbro and Ryan Solomon receiving accolades such as First Team All-Empire and All-American, and the influx of talented freshmen, Quinnipiac is poised to build on their past experiences. The team’s balanced blend of skill, experience, and new talent sets a strong foundation for a successful season, aiming to not just participate but to make a significant mark in the coming championship pursuits.