Sacred Heart University aim to defend ECHC Black Division title with strong 2024-25 roster

As the 2024-25 season approaches, the Sacred Heart University Pioneers are gearing up to defend their ECHC Black Division Championship with a strong mix of returning talent and new recruits. After a standout season that saw them capture their first division title, Head Coach Joseph Lane will rely on a solid core of experienced players, bolstered by a few fresh faces, to lead the charge this year.

Returning Forwards: Leading the offensive group is Jack Kinahan, Sacred Heart’s top scorer from last season, with 31 points (18 goals, 13 assists) in 27 games. He will be joined by Brendan Murphy, Edward Jackson, Noah O’Neil, and others who were instrumental in the team’s success last year. With 14 forwards returning, including key contributors such as Anthony Gerace, Jake Calanni, and Darren Koenig, the Pioneers' offense will be a force to be reckoned with.

New Forwards: Sacred Heart has also added four new forwards to their roster. Among them, Ryan Walsh, and Michael McDermott from the New Jersey Bears (EHL) bring additional depth and skill. Victor D’Errico (P.A.L. Junior Islanders 18U AAA) and Anthony Marazzito (Dix Hills Hawks 18U A) bring scoring potential, with Marazzito notching 13 goals in just 16 games last season.

Returning Defenseman: On the defensive side, Sacred Heart retains nine defensemen, including John Campbell, Matthew Strano, and Brandon Koenig, who were key to the Pioneers’ success last season. With veterans like Jason Bonante and Nicholas Tumminello Jr., Sacred Heart’s blue line remains strong and will continue to provide both offensive support and defensive stability.

Goaltending: Sacred Heart’s goaltending remains solid, with last season’s starting goaltender Jimmy Burtch returning to the crease. Burtch started 21 games and led all ECHC DII goaltenders with a 3.30 goals-against average. Gabriel Diest and Gavin Regan add depth, while the addition of Andrew Raber (New Jersey Colonials 18U AAA) strengthens the competition in net.

Sacred Heart is poised for another successful season, with a wealth of returning talent and promising new additions. As they aim to defend their Black Division Championship, the Pioneers will look to build on last season’s success and continue to be a dominant force in the ECHC. With a deep roster of experienced forwards, a strong defensive core, and reliable goaltending, Sacred Heart is well-positioned for another deep run this year.