The Johnstown Tomahawks are thrilled to announce the selection of four outstanding Assistant Captains who will work alongside Captain Zach Aben to lead the team during the 2023-2024 season.
“I’m thrilled to announce our assistant captains, Will, Dylan, Justin, and Lukas,” said Johnstown Tomahawks Head Coach Mike Letizia. “They demonstrate leadership on and off the ice, setting high standards with their dedication and work ethic. Will and Dylan made tremendous strides as rookies last year and were incredibly impactful to our team with their on-ice play and the respect they earned from their peers. Justin and Lukas joined our team having junior experience, but wanted to become a part of the Tomahawks organization and they have without question been respected leaders since Day 1 of training camp. With these four combined with Zach’s lead, the coaching staff feels that our team is in excellent hands, and I’m confident they’ll inspire and elevate our players all season.”
These individuals have demonstrated remarkable dedication to the sport and embody the values and spirit of the Tomahawks organization.
The four newly appointed Assistant Captains for the Johnstown Tomahawks are as follows:
Lukas Klemm – Defenseman from Ridgefield, CT:
Lukas Klemm, an ‘04 defenseman, joins the Tomahawks after a productive season with the BCHL’s Nanaimo Clippers in 2022-2023, where he contributed two goals and nine assists for a total of 11 points in 54 games. Prior to his time with the Clippers, Klemm showcased his skills with the Jamestown Rebels of the NAHL during the 2021-2022 season, accumulating eight goals and ten assists, totaling 18 points.
“I’m very honored to be given the opportunity to be an Assistant Captain for the Tomahawks this season,” said Klemm. “I know that all of the guys have one goal in mind this year, so it’s going to be a great one! We look forward to seeing everyone around the rink!”
Justin Gibson – Defenseman from Pittsburgh, PA:
Justin Gibson, a Pittsburgh, PA native is a fresh addition to the Johnstown Tomahawks roster. He arrives with a wealth of valuable experience earned during his two seasons in the BCHL with the Victoria Grizzlies, where he impressively tallied 10 goals, 21 assists, and 31 points across 102 games. The defenseman’s background is further strengthened by his five-season tenure with the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite organization.
“I am excited and grateful for this opportunity,” said Gibson. “I know how much hockey means to the city of Johnstown and how much the fans support us. With that being said we have a great group of guys this year and we are putting in the work every day to play some great hockey in front of our fans and win a Robertson Cup.”
Will Lawrence – Forward from Bethesda, MD:
Will Lawrence, returning for his second season with the Johnstown Tomahawks, had an exceptional rookie year in the 2022-2023 season. The Bethesda, MD native showcased his scoring prowess with 16 goals and 10 assists, totaling 26 points in 56 games. Lawrence previously played at Mount St. Charles Academy, where he accumulated an impressive 72 points from 40 goals and 31 assists in 104 games.
“I am beyond grateful and honored to be an Assistant Captain for the Tomahawks this year,” said Lawrence. “I’m excited to see what we can accomplish this year with the great group we have. Tomahawk Nation, Let’s Ride!”
Dylan Shane – Defenseman from Kutztown, PA:
Dylan Shane, who has committed to playing for Niagara University, is back for his sophomore season with the Johnstown Tomahawks, following a standout performance in the 2022-2023 season. Hailing from Kutztown, PA, Shane made significant contributions on the defensive front, amassing one goal and 16 assists, for a total of 17 points across 60 games. Shane embarked on his Tomahawks journey as a tender during the 2021-2022 season, where he made a single appearance. Prior to his time in Johnstown, he spent three seasons honing his skills at Mount St. Charles Academy.
“I am honored and grateful for this opportunity to serve as an assistant captain for the Johnstown Tomahawks this year,” said Shane.” I have a very confident feeling in the group we have this year and I am excited to see what we will be able to do!”
The Johnstown Tomahawks will open their season this Friday, September 8th, on the road in Maryland to face off against the Black Bears for the first weekend series of the season. Puck drop is set for 7:15 PM on Friday and 6:30 PM on Saturday. Fans can watch live on NAHLTV or follow us on social media to stay up-to-date with your Johnstown Tomahawks.