The Johnstown Tomahawks have named their team captains for the 2014-15 NAHL season, as the team prepares to open the regular season tomorrow.
Defenseman Brady Bender will serve as captain. Last season for the Tomahawks, the Colorado native contributed one goal and seven assists in 51 games played. He finished the year with a plus-six plus/minus rating.
“Brady has been one of the hardest working players we have had come through the organization – not to mention one of the best people,” head coach Mike Letizia said. “He is a player who has been extremely consistent with his commitment both on and off the ice. He is someone who leads by example, but speaks up when necessary. I am very excited to see how he thrives in this role.”
Alternate captains for the year will be defenseman Shane Cuckovich and rookie forward Andrew Romano. Cuckovich, of Rochester Hills, Mich., contributed five goals and five assists in 48 games with the Tomahawks last year, adding 43 penalty minutes and a plus-two rating.
“Shane worked very hard all summer to come back bigger and stronger,” Letizia said of Cuckovich. “Positivity and character are two of his biggest assets, as well as his ability to hold his teammates accountable for what they're doing.”
Romano, of Drexel Hill, Pa., joins the Tomahawks after playing for the Philadelphia Junior Flyers of the Tier 1 Elite League last season. “Andrew has been a leader and a captain on many of the teams he has played on,” Letizia said. “He is very deserving of this and will provide quality leadership for us this season.
The Tomahawks open their regular season schedule Saturday evening against their new in-state rivals, the Keystone Ice Miners. The game begins at the Ice Mine in Connellsville, Pa., at 7:30 Sept. 13.
Flex-season ticket packages are now available for the 2014-15 season, with prices starting less than $99. For information,visit www.JohnstownTomahawks.comor call 814-536-4625.