MIDDLETOWN, New Jersey – The New Jersey Titans are proud to announce its captains for the 2016-17 NAHL Season.
Second-year defenseman Will Riedell has been chosen the team’s captain, while forwards Greg Malafronte, Anthony Cusanelli and Dylan Healy have been chose as assistant captains.
“We are proud to have Will as our captain. Will is a veteran defenseman who approaches the game like a pro. His preparation and approach day in and day out is something all of our players can learn from. He knows how to lead a group of young men. He doesn’t speak down to them, he speaks with them,” said Head Coach and General Manager, Craig Doremus.
Riedell, ’96, joined the Titans last year and played in 26 games collecting two goals and four assists for six points.
“Being chosen to wear the ‘C’ this year by my teammates is an unforgettable feeling. I couldn’t be more excited to lead the team this year. It’s an amazing opportunity, said the Greensboro, NC native.
“It’s a very special group of guys we have here in New Jersey and we have coaches that are amazing leaders that set us up for success everyday we step foot in the rink. Players come ready to work day in and day out. It gives me a great feeling coming into the rink knowing I get the chance to grow on and off the ice with this extraordinary group.”
Malafronte, ’96, comes back to the Titans after playing in 19 games with New Jersey last season where he nabbed one goal and two assists for three points.
“I think we have a really special group with a lot of potential. Being named one of the captains means a lot especially being a Titan for seven years. The Titans have been nothing but great to me and I’m grateful for everything they’ve done for me, said the Holmdel, NJ product.
“It’s an honor to be one of the captains of such a special group. I’m excited for the season to start and to get the ball rolling. Our goal is definitely to win the Robertson Cup.”
“Greg’s approach and passion for our team speak volumes to his teammates. His intensity and commitment to our everyday excellence has endeared him to his teammates. Greg is a key member of our forward group and we are proud to have him wear a letter for us,” said Doremus.
Cusanelli, ’96, another long-time Titan, played in 60 games for the NAHL club last year and grabbed 17 goals and 20 assists in 37 games played.
“It’s an honor to be named a leader of this team and I’m thankful for the opportunity. I’m going to do everything I can to lead by example and help the younger guys get adjusted to this level of play, both on and off the ice, the Holmdel, NJ native said.
“I’m really excited about the group we have this year. After playing in the league last year I have a good idea of what it takes to be a successful team and I really believe this group has the ability to do something special.”
“Anthony is long time member of the Titans’ organization. He takes pride in who and what we are. He has stepped up big time leading our players this year on and off the ice. He is poised to have a big season with us,” added Doremus.
Healy, ’96, joins the Titans from the USPHL where he had 12 goals and 10 assists for 22 points in 28 games played for Philadelphia.
“It’s an honor and a privilege to wear the ‘A’ for the Titans. I’m looking forward to be part of a team of this caliber. I’m a firm believer that this team had what it takes to win a Robertson Cup,” the Goshen, NY product said.
“Dylan is a natural leader. He isn’t afraid to speak up or lead by example at any time. He has been a leader before on previous teams and he knows what it takes to win at all levels,” said Doremus.
The Titans open up their 2016-17 NAHL Regular Season with a home and home against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Knights. Puck drop for Friday is scheduled for 7:30 PM at the Revolution Ice Center in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, PA. The Titans then return home on Saturday to the Middletown Sports Complex to face off against the Knights at 7:30 PM.
Catch all the action live via FastHockey.com and tickets are still on sale by visiting the Titans box office or calling 732-865-9700.