LOWELL, Mass.—Ahead of puck drop for the 2021-22 campaign, UMass Lowell Hockey Head Coach
Norm Bazin has announced the leadership group for this year's squad.
Senior forward
Lucas Condotta (Georgetown, Ontario) will serve as captain of the 2021-22 River Hawks. Joining Condotta, seniors
Reid Stefanson (Winnipeg, Manitoba) and
Jon McDonald (Livonia, Mich.) will serve as the team's alternate captains.
"Lucas was a unanimous pick by his teammates to serve as their captain," remarked Bazin. "He has everyone's respect, including the coaching staff."
During his three years with the River Hawks, Condotta has amassed 29 points off 14 goals and 15 assists. Seeing action in 88 games over his collegiate career, the three-time Hockey East All-Academic selection brings experience and veteran leadership to the program, exemplifying the standout reputation of UMass Lowell Hockey.
Alternate captains Stefanson and McDonald complete the leadership core, with each bringing their own knowledge and experience to the well-rounded 2021-22 squad.
Stefanson demonstrates leadership in all facets of his game, both on and off the ice. An unselfish player, Stefanson led the team in assists last year, dishing out 10 while adding five goals to finish second on the team in points. In the classroom, Stefanson's diligence earned him several accolades throughout his career, including three consecutive Hockey East All-Academic selections, a Hockey East All-Academic All-Star Team nod and Hockey East Top Scholar-Athlete recognition. Graduating with his bachelor's degree in three years, Stefanson is pursuing his master's degree this year.
"Reid brings the same professionalism to each and every day," commented Bazin. "He is ready for this responsibility."
A figurehead of the River Hawk defense, McDonald's command on the blueline has earned him back-to-back Defensive Player of the Year nods from his team. Like Condotta and Stefanson, the business major has balanced the demanding nature of being a student-athlete to earn three-consecutive Hockey East All-Academic selections.
"Jon has a team-first approach in everything he does," noted Bazin. "He will be our rock on defense and someone who can be relied upon in big situations."
In addition to the core leadership team of Condotta, Stefanson and McDonald, Bazin will also be nominating an additional monthly alternate captain.
