Stevens Institute of Technology Looks to Make an Impact in the ECHC After Move to AAU College Hockey

As the 2024-25 season kicks off, Stevens Institute of Technology transitions from the ACHA to AAU College Hockey’s DIII. The team, now competing in the Empire Collegiate Hockey Conference's newly-formed Silver Division, is led by Head Coach Dillon Wu and returns a core of experienced players, complemented by promising new additions to the roster.

Returning Forwards: Stevens brings back a solid group of forwards, including Tyler Buss, David Canales, Kyle Chambers, Lucas Cunnane, and Paul Golembiewski. Last season’s top contributors, such as Dylan Faulhaber and Tyler Buss, will once again play key roles in the offensive lineup. Buss tallied 14 points (9 goals, 5 assists) in 15 games, while Golembiewski added 18 points in 16 games. Veteran experience from Lance Decandia, Itai Geller, and Thomas Vella further adds depth to the forward group.

New Forwards: Stevens has added new talent to its forward corps, most notably Kyle Daly (Union Thunder, EHL-P) and Luke Saletta, who bring fresh energy and potential to the lineup. Daly is eager to contribute after gaining valuable Junior experience last season with the Thunder.

Key Departures: Stevens will need to fill the void left by top scorer Sean Kiewe, who recorded 30 points in just 14 games, his offensive production will be missed, but returning forwards are expected to step up.

Returning Defensemen: The blue line remains strong with key defensemen like Nick Adams, Thomas Bissaillon, Stephen Crocco, and Ryan Thornton returning to provide stability. Cameron McIntyre and Nicholas Dahdah also return, bringing experience to help solidify the Ducks’ defense.

New Defensemen: New additions to the defense include Hayden Fitzpatrick (Tenafly High, USHS-NJ), who posted 4 points last season, and Kevin McNamara (Montclair Blues 18U AA), who will bolster the Ducks' defensive lineup. Both players are expected to make an immediate impact on the blue line.

Goaltending: Returning goaltender Brendan Breschard will share duties with newcomer Daniel Lynes (Seton Hall Prep, USHS-NJ). Breschard, who led the Ducks in goals against average and save percentage, will be critical in helping Stevens compete in the Silver Division.

Last Season Recap: Stevens played in ACHA M3 last season and faced off in four exhibition games against ECHC teams, winning 5-4 against Fordham and 8-5 against Rutgers. They also lost 7-3 to Fordham and 5-3 to Ramapo. Despite these mixed results, Stevens' experience against higher-level teams could prove valuable as they enter the competitive ECHC Silver Division.

Exhibition Game Recap: Stevens vs. Ramapo – September 15, 2024: Stevens opened the season with an exhibition game against Ramapo College of New Jersey (DII), falling 5-2. Despite goals from Kyle Daly and Kevin McNamara, the Ducks were outpaced by the Roadrunners’ consistent offense and ultimately fell short in the first test of the season.

With a strong mix of returning players and new talent, Stevens Institute of Technology is poised to compete in the AAU College Hockey DIII landscape. The Ducks aim to build on last season’s experience as they navigate their new league, conference, and division.